Renault debuted their eco-friendly Z.E collection at October’s Paris Motor Show. The zero-emission concept has been produced on mass with a total number of four cars in the collection, the Fluence Z.E, Zoe Z.E, Twizy Z.E and the Kangoo Z.E.
Based on designs since 1997, the Kangoo has been developed over the past decade to optimise energy consumption from variables such as heating, lighting and climate control. Fundamentally speaking the Z.E electric car is far greener for the environment and its inhabitants, with zero fuel emissions and a quieter drive. Using solar panels on the roof to power the cooling system for the car as well as features such as on-board cameras which link up to dashboard screens. This replaces the need for wing mirrors, increasing visibility and ensuring the vehicle is extremely aerodynamic.
Generally speaking, the electric car is cheaper than the fuel alternative, but what drives the Renault Z.E ahead of the crowd? Technically speaking all electric cars can be seen as zero-emission vehicles to a certain extent, but it is only when renewable power sources are used, such as solar panels or wind power can a car, such as those in the Renault Z.E collection, claim that they are in fact producing zero emissions.
Powered by lithium-ion batteries, which usually take up to eight hours to charge, there is an added “quick charge” process that takes twenty minutes. Alternatively the battery can be replaced at special Renault charging stations using the “battery exchange” process. This will take around three minutes as drivers park over the specially designed bays. Depending on the car model and length of journey you are able to shape this to your specific needs. However, the car does not come with the battery when initially purchased, Renault leases it to you for a monthly fee which contracts you to just 6,000 over a three year period. Yet theses vehicles are not necessarily designed for cross-country journeys and there is the added benefit of zero road tax and exemption from the congestion charge fees.
Already accelerating into the green car market winning bids from companies such as La Poste, the French postal service that recently ordered 10,000 cars, the Z.E collection is set to change the market and push it forward into emission free territory. The choice between the four cars also offers buyers an insightful way to buy greener, choosing for their needs amongst different sized commercial vehicles and personal city drives.
