The 2010 Paris Motor Show sees Renault reveal the definitive version of its 100% electric sedan, three-volume Renault Fluence Z.E. Orders open in September 2011. Prices range between €20,900 and €26,900, depending on local VAT rates and available tax incentive packages, excluding battery.

Renault Fluence Z.E. will sell in certain countries at prices similar to those of comparably powerful diesel versions of Renault Fluence with the same equipment level. In France, for example, prices will start at €20,900 (€5,000 tax incentive deducted). Fluence Z.E. comes in a choice of two equipment levels: Expression and Dynamique.

Customers will also subscribe to a monthly lease starting from €82 including VAT (assistance included) to cover the battery at a level of 10,000km/year for 36 months.

As the compact segment's first three-box electric vehicle, it was imperative that Renault Fluence Z.E. should be recognizable at first glance. To distinguish it from the internal combustion engined-version, it comes with a package of specific features and details that unmistakably associate it with Renault's electric vehicle range. The electric version of Fluence stands at a length of 4.75 metres, which is 13 centimetres longer than its internal combustion-engined cousin in order to accommodate the battery behind the rear seats. At the same time, the lines of its flanks have been revised in order to maintain the same overall balance as the original version.

Renault Fluence Z.E. is conclusive proof that electric vehicles do not have to be small, narrow and uncomfortable city cars with a limited touring ability. The new model is the same width as the internal combustion engined-version of Fluence, and the cabin space it delivers is worthy of that of a saloon car from the next segment up, including best-in-class front and rear elbow room.

Renault Fluence Z.E.'s interior is based on the same layout as the internal combustion-engined version. Only the rev-counter has been replaced by a bespoke instrument which displays data concerning remaining range and battery charge. The decorative trim of the uncluttered dashboard is picked out in a colour that is exclusive to the model, while the centre console includes the displays "forward", "reverse", "neutral" and "parking" which are the different positions for the transmission control lever.

Renault Fluence Z.E. also packs a raft of useful technologies, including a built-in smart navigation system, Bluetooth telephony and automatic dual-zone climate control, plus automatic headlamp and windscreen-wiper activation. 

Fluence Z.E. is powered by a synchronous electric motor with rotor coil. Peak power is 70kW at 3,000rpm, while maximum torque is 226Nm. The weight of the motor – excluding peripherals – is 160kg. Acceleration performance is crisp and linear, with maximum torque available very early on.
 

The capacity of Renault Fluence Z.E.'s lithium-ion battery is 22kWh. The battery itself tips the scales at 250kg and is located behind the rear seats in order to free up a boot volume of 300dm3 (VDA/ISO). An energy recovery system enables the battery to be charged when the car decelerates. Fluence Z.E.'s NEDC combined cycle range is homologated at 185km.

 

It is possible to charge the battery of Renault Fluence Z.E. at home and in public places:

 

• At home, thanks to the installation of a Wall-Box that can be installed for a standard charge between 6 and 8 hours. Chief benefits are battery-charge speed, the assurance that it complies with local standards, its user-friendliness and its ability to communicate with the electricity network in order to take advantage of the lowest possible electricity rates, at night or off-peak, for example.

• For occasional use, it is possible to charge via a household mains supply (10A, 220V) which will fully charge the battery in about 10 hours. Renault offers a battery charging cable (either as an accessory or an option) which plugs into the 220V domestic supply.

• Access to public battery charging facilities: standard (between 6 and 8 hours) battery charging is ensured thanks to the many agreements that have been put into place by the Renault-Nissan Alliance.

• In each of the three countries where Renault has reached agreements with Better Place (Israel, Denmark and Australia), the QuickDrop battery switch system will enable Renault Fluence Z.E.'s battery to be swapped in less than 5 minutes at bespoke battery exchange stations Fluence Z.E.