Renault Zoe Dynamique Intens
What is it
The Renault Zoe is the fourth model to join Renault ZE (zero emissions) range of plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) after the Fluence saloon, the Kangoo van and the remarkable Twizy quadricycle.
It’s based on the same platform as the new Clio but with certain modifications such as the use of some suspension parts from the larger Megane.
The battery pack lives under the floor of the passenger compartment and most of the other drivetrain components are under the bonnet so there are no compromises when it comes to interior space.
Renault has put more effort into its push into the pure EV market than any other mainstream manufacturer, rather than hedging its bets with hybrids, which don’t suffer the same range limitations.
The French manufacturer takes the view that accommodating two power sources and two motors in cars designed to sell at mainstream prices isn’t the best way to go.
So far, it has been a lonely battle for the French, but the attractive Zoe has long been heralded as the car that might finally produce the breakthrough that would make all that effort worthwhile.
