Renault puts some spark into Zoe EV pricing

RENAULT CLAIMS ITS ZOE is Australia’s most affordable electric vehicle and in the current difficult conditions has come up with a value-packed offer.

Until May 31, customers can purchase Zoe for $49,990 drive-away and receive a free 7kW charging station including installation and a five-year warranty.

In total the offer represents a saving of up to $6,000 (depending on government charges, according to Renault).

“With the $150K instant asset write-off, this offer represents a fantastic opportunity for small businesses looking to upgrade their fleet to pure electric,” said Renault Australia Managing Director Anouk Poelmann.

Renault is pitching the Zoe to commercial buyers but we think private buyers may get on board

“With its 300 km range and zero emissions, Zoe represents a great delivery vehicle for small businesses offering home delivery, such as pharmacies or restaurants.

“The inclusion of a drive-away pricing and a fully installed charging station – valued at up to $6000 – make this package a perfect solution for small businesses in the lead up to the end of the financial year, while the warranty extension adds peace of mind motoring.

“Combining French flair with no carbon emissions, engine noise or gear changes, Renault Zoe has led the charge for electric mobility. This is a great opportunity for Australian businesses to join the EV revolution,” she said.

We’d suggest it is also a great opportunity for private buyers keen to join the EV revolution.

Electric power is gaining traction

“Renault is the pioneer of pure-electric mobility and Europe’s number-one seller of electric vehicles. Drawing on that engineering expertise, ZOE offers an emission-free alternative that is now within reach of more Australians with this great offer,” said Poelmann.

Zoe is packed with clever technology and features that help maximise its range, including Renault’s Range OptimiZEr, which combines the benefits of new-generation regenerative braking technology, a heat pump that reduces power demand for cabin heating when driving and Michelin Energy E-V tyres.

There is also an Eco Mode, which provides the driver with tips to squeeze every last kilometre out of the energy stored in the battery. Eco Mode automatically adjusts engine power and air conditioning operation to increase the range by up to 10 percent.

Using Zoe’s pre-conditioning function, the cabin can be cooled or warmed to an ambient temperature of around 21 degrees when the car is connected to a charging station, at a time to suit the owner. When the car is driven off, the air conditioning or heating is able to maintain the set temperature without having to draw extra power.

Driving a Renault electric vehicle is a surprising blend of punchy performance mixed with peace and quiet. Acceleration and pickup are brisk from low speeds with no engine noise or vibration.

Renault Zoe is responsive, easy to handle and enjoyable to drive, with a chassis tailored to the specific characteristics of electric vehicles and specially tuned steering, tyres and shock absorbers.

The R90 electric motor instantly delivers maximum torque, producing brisk, smooth acceleration and pick-up from low speeds, all with no gearshifts. It translates to acceleration from rest to 50 km/h in around four seconds.

Zoe’s quiet and relaxing drive is aided by the noise levels measured inside the cabin that are two to three times quieter than an equivalent vehicle with an internal combustion engine.

Renault Zoe is Europe’s best-selling EV and has racked up more than 60 awards worldwide since launch. It boasts a 68kW/220Nm electric motor and can recharge from 0-100 percent in 7.5 hours.