Renault Zoe Europe’s Popular Compact Electric Car
The Renault Zoe has been Europe’s top electric car since 2012. It’s a compact city EV with a modern look that’s not too futuristic. This makes it a great choice for those wanting a practical and efficient electric car.
The 2020 update brought small changes to the outside and big improvements inside. You’ll find a new 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 10-inch digital instrument panel.
The Renault Zoe is known for its long range of up to 245 miles (WLTP). It beats many rivals in the compact EV market. Its 52kWh battery and efficient engine let it go far on a single charge. This makes it perfect for daily drives and longer trips.
Overview of Renault’s Flagship Electric Vehicle
The Renault Zoe is a compact all-electric car that’s very popular in Europe. It’s known as Renault’s flagship EV. The Zoe has been a top seller, making it a leader in the European electric vehicle market.
Since 2012, the Zoe has seen many updates. A 2020 facelift improved its interior, infotainment, and Zoe range and performance. The latest Zoe R135 model has 134 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. It goes from 0-62mph in 9.5 seconds and from 0-30mph in just 3.6 seconds.
| Key Highlights | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 52kWh |
| Claimed Range | 245 miles |
| Charging Capability | 50kW DC, 22kW AC |
| Power Output | 134 hp, 181 lb-ft torque |
| Acceleration 0-62mph | 9.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 140 km/h |
The Renault Zoe faces competition from other compact electric cars. These include the Mini Electric, Vauxhall Corsa-e, Honda E, and Peugeot e-208. The Zoe stands out with its city-friendly size, good Zoe range and performance, and affordable price. It’s a favorite among urban commuters and those who care about the environment in Europe.
Car Review Renault Zoe Electric
Exterior Design and Aesthetics
The Renault Zoe looks modern and compact, with some updates. Its sleek design has hidden door handles, making it look streamlined. The Zoe’s style is a mix of today’s small cars and tomorrow’s electric vehicles, making it stand out.
Interior Comfort and Features
The Zoe’s interior has been improved for a better driving experience. It now has softer materials and a big 9.3-inch touchscreen. You can still adjust the climate and air conditioning easily. The 10-inch digital display gives the driver all the info they need.
Build Quality and Materials
The Zoe’s build and materials are better, making it feel more refined. The driver’s seat is high for better visibility but might not be comfy for taller people. The back seats are small, typical for a city EV like the Zoe. Still, the Zoe’s interior is modern and well-made for driving efficiently in the city.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Carwow Price | £558 per month for a new Renault Zoe |
| Used Renault Zoe Price | Starting at £9,895 |
| Carwow Rating | 8/10 |
| Range | 238 miles |
| Acceleration (0-60 mph) | 9.5 seconds |
| Boot Space | 338 litres |
| Exterior Dimensions | 4,087 mm x 1,787 mm x 1,562 mm |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats |
| Fuel Type | Electric |
| Efficiency | 3.5 miles per kWh |
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The Renault Zoe shines in city driving, accelerating from 0-30mph in just 3.6 seconds. It has 134 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. This means it can go from 0-62mph in 9.5 seconds. The Zoe’s instant torque makes driving in the city both fun and efficient.
On highways, the Zoe does well, though it might not feel as stable as bigger electric cars. It has two driving modes: normal and Eco. The Eco mode makes the car more efficient but less responsive. For a sportier feel, the Zoe’s handling and steering are great. But, if you want to save energy, Eco mode is the way to go.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| 0-62mph | 9.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 87mph |
| Driven Wheels | Front |
| Power | 134bhp |
The Renault Zoe’s energy-efficient driving and Zoe range and performance make it a great pick. It offers a fun and balanced drive, whether you’re in the city or on the highway.
Battery Technology and Range
The Renault Zoe’s battery tech and range have made it a top choice in electric cars. Over eight years, Renault’s team has boosted the Zoe’s battery from 23.3 kWh to 52 kWh. This shows big steps forward in battery tech.
Battery Specifications
The Zoe’s Z.E. 50 battery pack now offers up to 245 miles on a single charge. This is about 30% more than the old 41 kWh pack. Renault improved the battery’s design and chemistry to get this better range.
Real-world Range Testing
The Zoe R135 variant usually gets between 135 and 200 miles in real driving. This depends on how you drive and the weather. The Zoe beats many rivals, like the Honda E, which has less range.
Energy Efficiency Metrics
The Zoe is also very efficient and cost-effective. Charging the battery fully costs less than £5, giving you up to 245 miles. A petrol car would need about £27 for the same distance. For 10,000 miles, the Zoe costs around £204 in electricity, much less than a petrol car’s £1,700 in fuel.
