Renault unveils design of Fluence Z.E. and Kangoo Van Z.E.

(16/04/2010)

Electric vehicles represent a clean-break solution aimed at making CO2 emissions-free mobility in use, except wear parts, available to all. In its bid to become the number one low CO2 European carmaker, Renault is working on two main fronts:
* the introduction of new technologies for internal combustion engines and transmissions,
* and a strong commitment to all-electric vehicles.

Renault estimates that electric vehicles will account for 10 per cent of the world market by 2020. The Alliance is investing €4 billion in its zero emissions programme and a 2,000-strong team (1,000 at Renault and 1,000 at Nissan) is already working on electric vehicles.

Renault has unveiled the finalised designs of Fluence Z.E. and Kangoo Van Z.E., while customers wishing to be among the first to run on electrical power can pre-reserve their vehicle online. The simple act of registration allows prospective buyers to choose their electric vehicle and benefit from priority availability as soon as it comes onto the market.

Aware of the impact that motor vehicles can have on the environment over their complete life cycle, Renault has been working actively for many years to achieve ongoing improvements regarding the ecological footprint of a vehicle at every phase of its life (production, on-road use, recycling). As demonstrated by its Renault eco² programme in favour of the environment, Renault believes it is essential to ensure that the most effective technologies are available to as many motorists as possible at an affordable price.

RENAULT FLUENCE Z.E.
Following Fluence Z.E. Concept’s unveiling at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, Renault has taken the wraps off the finalised design of Fluence Z.E. which is due to go on sale in Israel, Denmark and the rest of Europe from 2011. As the C segment's first production saloon electric vehicle, Fluence Z.E. targets motorists and fleet operators who are looking for a status-enhancing vehicle that is both economical to run and respectful of the environment.

As the compact segment's first saloon electric vehicle, it was imperative that Renault Fluence Z.E. should be recognisable at first glance. To distinguish it from the internal combustion engined-version, it comes with a package of specific features and details that unmistakably associate it with Renault's electric vehicle range.

The electric version of Fluence stands at a length of 4.75 metres, which is 13 centimetres longer than its internal combustion-engined cousin in order to accommodate the battery behind the rear seats. At the same time, the lines of its flanks have been revised in order to maintain the same overall balance as the original version.

At the front, the Renault logo, foglamp surrounds, headlamp brows and lower part of the headlamp mask are all picked out in a blue-hued colour. The upper air intake is traversed by a gloss black strip incorporating a blue chrome trim that links two similarly-finished circles situated either side of the grille. Finally, the lower air-intake incorporates a body-colour strip that runs between the two foglamps.

Renault Fluence Z.E.'s lines are taut and fluid, while the rear quarter panels have been harmoniously extended in order to absorb the additional length resulting from the longer rear overhang. This design encases the rear screen in a way that recalls the rear-end styling of prestigious sports coupés, while a gloss black trim at the bottom of the screen emphasises the rear's harmonious proportions. The design of the rear lights, which extend forward either side of the car, also contributes to the overall balance of Renault Fluence Z.E.'s lines. The clusters themselves feature a pattern made up of backlit blue-hued lozenges.

Gloss black exterior mirror housings, body-colour painted side protective mouldings and the battery charge flaps on both wings add the finishing touch to Renault Fluence Z.E.'s uniquely expressive looks, as do the boot lid's blue-hued panel and the Fluence Z.E. badge. Last but not least, the rear bumper incorporates a black diffuser which is engineered to reduce aerodynamic drag, while the wheels have been specially designed to minimise turbulence. Several body colours are available, including Energy Blue, a new colour that is specific to Renault's electric vehicle range.

RENAULT KANGOO VAN Z.E.

Following last December's presentation of prototypes of the forthcoming Kangoo Van Z.E. at the COP 15 (United Nations Climate Change Conference) in Copenhagen, Renault is pleased to reveal the model's finalized design. This vehicle will be released in the first half of 2011 and will have an operational range of 160km. The electric version of Kangoo Van features the same practical functions as the internal combustion-engined vehicle, i.e. the same carrying capacity (ranging from 3 to 3.5m3), the same payload (650kg) and the same high standard of comfort. On top of that, it delivers a silent ride and responsive performance, the immediate availability of torque as soon as it starts, no gear changes, low running costs and, of course, the satisfaction of owning a zero-emissions vehicle.

Within the framework of its zero emissions strategy, the Renault-Nissan Alliance is working actively with governments, administrative bodies, local authorities, energy providers and other partners. To date, it has signed more than 50 agreements across the world aimed at preparing markets and establishing the necessary infrastructure for the mass marketing of electric vehicles from 2011.

Support plans for the development of infrastructure have been announced in most European countries.

* In France, the so-called Borloo Plan will see the installation of 75,000 roadside battery charging stations. It also introduces the notion of a "right of access to an electrical connection" for motorists who reside in a joint-ownership building or property (announcement of October 1, 2009).
* In Spain, José Luis Zapatero recently outlined a 15-point Electric Vehicle Action Plan, a public investment programme amounting to €590 million over two years and the introduction of some 250,000 electric vehicles between now and 2014 (20,000 in 2011, 50,000 in 2012). The government will subsidise the purchase of electric vehicles by up to 20 per cent of the total purchase price, capped at €6,000. It will also provide assistance with the development and production electric vehicles in Spain and the introduction of battery charging infrastructures.
* The Irish government has announced a €5,000 subsidy for buyers of electric vehicles. Electricity provider ESB plans to build 3,500 standard battery charge stations and 30 quick charge stations nationwide between now and the end of 2011.
* The UK Government announced a subsidy of 25% off the purchase price of an electric vehicle (up to a maximum of £5,000) from 2011.
* In certain countries, private initiatives are at a very advanced stage, too. Better Place is in the process of developing a network of battery charge and battery exchange stations across Israel and Denmark to prepare for the introduction of the market's first saloon electric vehicle, Renault Fluence Z.E., in 2011.

Renault's objective is to make electric vehicle technology available to as many road users as possible. To this end, Renault will introduce a range of innovative ownership formulae.

For the first time, the vehicle and the battery will belong to different owners. Customers will either buy or hire their vehicle and take out a subscription that covers the hire of the battery and the availability of new mobility services designed to facilitate the life of consumers.

Related categories:  Hybrid and electric car   Nissan   Renault   Vans