The Kangoo be bop Z.E. will go on a Europe-wide promotional tour in July, before Renault starts production of its electric vehicles in 2011, beginning with an all-electric Megane saloon in Israel, and a Kangoo van in Europe. Renault will then launch an all-new standalone electric car based on the Clio platform in 2012.
The electric Kangoo is powered by lithium ion batteries, mounted underneath the dashboard.
The car is charged via a socket in the front wing. The cable plugs into a domestic socket for a six to eight-hour charge, or can be fitted with a three-phase plug which will charge the battery to 80 per cent capacity in 30 minutes.
Energy-saving measures include regenerative braking and flat-surfaced wheels that improve airflow around the car.
The motor is a 59bhp unit with a 12,000rpm limiter. Renault says the Kangoo Be Bop ZE has a top speed of 130kph, and a range of 100 km, but the first production electric Renaults will increase that figure to 160 km.
KANGOO BE BOP Z.E. DIMENSIONS
Length (mm) 3,871
Overall width with/without exterior mirror (mm) 1,829 / 2,133
Height (unladen) (mm) 1,812
Wheelbase (mm) 2,313
Front track (mm) 1,522
Rear track (mm) 1,536
Ground clearance (unladen) (mm) 170
Weight (kg) 1,591
TECHNICAL DATA
Motor Electric motor
Power (kW) 44
Revs (rpm) 12,000
Maximum torque 190Nm
Transmission Direct drive reducer
Batteries Lithium-ion
Battery energy 15kWh
Tyres Dunlop SP Sport MAX 205/45 R18
Wheels 18-inch full disc wheels
PERFORMANCE
Top speed (electronically capped) (kph) 130