For Renault, the electric vehicle is a real long-term solution to today’s environmental and noise pollution issues in cities. Technological innovations now make it possible to mass market an electric vehicle at reasonable cost. In addition, changes in vehicle use make electric cars ideal for the majority of trips, with 87% of Europeans currently driving less than 60 km a day.

Renault will offer a full range of electric vehicles as early as 2011:

• Designed for professionals, Kangoo Z.E. went on sale in October 2011, with prices starting at €15,000 (environmental subsidy deducted). Monthly subscriptions covering battery rental will start at €72 before VAT, including assistance.
• The family sedan Fluence Z.E. was first launched in Israel (November 2011) and then in other countries. Prices in Europe start at €20,900 (depending on local tax incentives). Customers also subscribe to a monthly battery lease starting at €82 (including VAT), including assistance.
• Twizy, a new tandem type of urban vehicle, will be available in two versions (5kW -for drivers without a license, or 15kW motor) with a price tag starting at €6,990 (without tax incentive).
• By mid-2012, a zero-emission compact car, ZOE (close to ZOE Preview), will be launched. Measuring less than four meters long and with five seats it will be ideal for commuting to work.

Beyond 2012, Renault will continue to extend its electric car range to cover all segments.

Renault will also give customers access to innovative services making electric vehicle use easier and to advanced battery technology currently under development by the Renault-Nissan Alliance.

For Renault and its customers, electric cars have to be practical, attractive and reassuring:

• Electric vehicles will retail at the same price as equivalent diesel models (without the battery, which is rented)
• Running costs are roughly 20% lower than an equivalent combustion vehicle since electricity costs much less than petrol (around €1 per 100 km)
• Maintenance costs are half those of an equivalent combustion vehicle because electric motors require less servicing
• Electric motors offer similar levels of performance as that of gasoline and diesel cars. Regarding acceleration, for example, an electric motor delivers all of its power as soon as it pulls away
• Electric cars are easily recharged at home, at special terminals in parking lot areas and at “quickdrop” rapid exchange stations

Electric vehicles are in phase with current public issues. They are silent and because they emit no CO₂, or any polluting emissions for that matter, they also respect the environment.

• In R&D, a 4 billion euros investment has been made on electric cars as part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance
• Cooperation with governments on infrastructure development and purchase incentives
• Partnerships are being formed with mobility operators worldwide