In a bid to boost business within the British arm of French car brand Renault there are some exciting innovative electric vehicles being released this year.
The Renault ZE range will see the launch of the Zoe. Due in autumn 2012 the vehicle has a one hundred mile range and can travel at up to 84mph thanks to the 80bhp (60kW) motor, as well as being the closest electric equivalent to a traditional family hatchback. The Zoe is expected to retail at about £18k-£20k, roughly the same price as an equivalent diesel model, although this excludes battery rental.
From spring 2012, the Twizy will be available from a very reasonable starting price of just £6,950 inc VAT. Although not suitable for high mileage users, due to only having a range of 60 miles and a 50mph top speed, this is being viewed as an ideal vehicle for city dwellers providing the perfect run around. Based on a rental period of 36 months, battery hire will cost £40 per month.
For drivers who find the range of electric vehicles currently available impractical, the Fluence saloon has a 94bhp (70kW) motor giving it an 84mph top speed plus a predicted range of 115 miles. It appears to be good value for money too coming in at a recommended cost of under £18k inc VAT plus the governments £5k plug-in grant. Battery rental is a little more expensive at a monthly cost of £69.60.
For the canny van driver looking for an option that reduces their overheads this could be the answer, the Kangoo, has been nicknamed ‘the alternative commercial vehicle’. It’s 60bhp motor (44kW) powers the Kangoo at speeds of up to 81mph and a 106 mile range. Battery hire comes in at £62 per month and it is now available to order from just £16,990 ex VAT.