While other brands fill their mouths by saying that they manufacture electric masses, the reality is that very few models can really say that. The Renault ZOE is one of the most popular electric cars on the old continent. Right now the regulations and legislations are becoming more and more restrictive. This forces brands to launch into electric mobility in a rush, but this is not the case of the French.
We have tested this car:
Test Renault ZOE 41 kWh. 300 km of autonomy, is it enough?The ZOE has been on the market since 2013. At that time, and anticipating what was to come, Renault brought to market a model that ended up becoming a reference. He did it hand in hand with his business partner, Nissan, who also know what this is about manufacturing large-volume electrics, in their case they know it thanks to the Nissan LEAF, the world's best-selling electric.
Seeing the good number of figures harvested by the ZOE, and attending to the increasingly extensive fleet of electric utility vehicles, in 2019 the gala house launches the second generation of its electric. It does so with a very similar appearance to the predecessor, but improved in every way. A new generation that intends to continue being one of the best references in the utility segment of the European market.
Technical characteristics of the Renault ZOE
The Renault ZOE is part of the European B segment. That is, within the utility segment. This allows you to make use of a known platform. Under the figure of the electric hides the same platform of the previous generation, that is to say that of Renault Clio from the previous generation, but heavily revised. This CMF-EV architecture has been developed in collaboration with Nissan.
The ZOE's measurements make it very popular for urban environments. 4,08 meters long, 1,73 meters wide and 1,56 meters high. To these measures we must add a total wheelbase of 2,58 meters, which translates into a correct interior habitability. Without great fanfare, but enough for a maximum of five passengers to fit inside. Although better if there are four.
Regarding the load capacity, the ZOE shows good data. Since the batteries are installed under the floor of the passenger compartment, the trunk is free to offer a good capacity. 338 liters of minimum capacity that can be extended up to 1.225 liters if we lower the second row of seats in a 60:40 ratio.
Mechanical range and gearboxes of the Renault ZOE
Since its development, the Renault ZOE has been considered a 100% electric car. This means that it has carried out a special set-up program that is far removed from the rest of the French manufacturer's range. For this second generation, the most substantial change is found in the battery pack. All the options are linked to the same electric motor that can develop two powers: 109 and 136 horsepower.
All power goes to the front axle alone, and the entire system is controlled by a clutchless automatic transmission of pairs of gears. The battery offer has two configurations. The access one has 40 kWh of capacity. It is a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery that is capable of presenting a maximum approved autonomy of 300 kilometers with an official average consumption of 17,2 kWh/100 kilometers.
The second option improves all figures. While the access battery always has to go with the less powerful motor, the larger battery can choose. Once again we are talking about a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery, but this time with 52 kWh capacity. Amount that allows you to homologate a 100% electric autonomy of 386 kilometers in the WLTP cycle with an official consumption of 17,7 kWh/100 kilometers. Of course both units obtain the CERO certification from the DGT.
Equipment of the Renault ZOE
The ZOE has never stood out for its extensive equipment or for its excessive quality of materials. For the second generation Renault has slightly improved both aspects. It has introduced more equipment, new systems, and also the feeling of interior quality has been improved thanks to better chosen materials. In this way, the line marked by other products such as Renault Clio and Renault Captur.
The French brand puts two trim levels for sale: Evolution and Iconic. We are talking about a somewhat shorter range than in the rest of the family, but well balanced enough not to present problems. At its lowest level we find elements such as the air conditioning, recharging cables, multimedia system with a 7-inch screen, light and rain sensors and connection for mobile devices.
If we reach the highest finish, we will not only have different customization options, but also more equipment. Multimedia screen with a size of 9,3 inches, navigator, rear camera, access and keyless start and the most complete equipment of security elements and driving assistants. as we say is a correct equipment but lacking some details with which they can count on combustion utility vehicles.
The Renault ZOE in video
The Renault ZOE according to Euro NCAP
Despite the fact that when the Renault ZOE was launched on the market it was considered one of the safest models in its category, the change in the rating system of Euro NCAP has reduced the safety grade in 2021, not achieving any safety stars due to the lack of driving assistants. By sections, the results are: 43% in adult passenger protection, 52% in child passenger protection, 41% in pedestrian vulnerability and 14% in driving assistants.
The Renault ZOE of Km 0 and second hand
Buying a second-hand electric is a tricky business. The great popularity of the ZOE, and its long stay on the market, means that second-hand and used channels are well supplied with units for sale. As is logical, all these units correspond to the first generation with not excessive accumulated mileage. Starting prices start at figures close to 8.500 euros.
If we look for one of these options we must require a certificate of maintenance and condition of the battery so as not to have problems in the future. As the second generation is already available, we see how this is the one that receives the most attention in the Km 0 channel. Despite being an electric car, it sells well, and therefore dealers accumulate stock and put it on sale with attractive discounts. That yes all the units have of the battery in property.
Renault ZOE rivals
When the Renault ZOE hit the market there were very few electric cars for sale. It could be said that this weirdo is less and less so. The utility segment is attracting many models. Content price, high battery life and free access to restricted areas are its strengths. Without a doubt, his main rival is his twin brother, the LEAF, but also we can add others like MINI Cooper SE, Peugeot e-208, as well as the Opel Corsa-e. The three are rivals both in size and prices and especially in a 100% electric concept.
Highlight
- Affordable price
- Behavior
- Equipment
To improve
- rear habitability
- Charging times
- Interior materials
Renault ZOE Prices
The ZOE has become one of the best-selling electric cars in the world for one main reason, its affordable selling price. It's expensive for a utility vehicle, but relatively cheap for an electric one. The starting price of the Renault ZOE is 27.478 euros. This price corresponds to the rental of the battery, an amount that must be added month by month depending on the selected program. If we choose to own the battery, the starting price of the ZOE rises to 31.753 euros. In this option you will not have to pay a monthly fee and we will have a guarantee of 8 years or 160.000 kilometers.
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