Renault Unveils the Kangoo Maxi Z.E.

French car manufacturer Renault will use the Geneva Show to unveil the Kangoo Maxi Z.E., the newest member of its EV family that will go on sale in autumn 2011. Available in two or five-seat configurations, the Kangoo Maxi Z.E. has a maximum carrying capacity of 4.6 cubic meters (162.4 cubic feet), thanks to the 40 cm longer wheelbase (1.3 ft) than the Kangoo Z.E., while the load length is 2.9 meters (9.5 ft).
The five-seat version comes with a 60/40-split folding rear bench, which disappears into the floor to release a completely flat deck and free up almost 3.4 cubic meters (120 cubic feet) of carrying space.
The van is powered by a 60-horsepower electric motor, which has an instant peak torque of 226 Nm (166 lb-ft) and is "fuelled" by a 22kWh lithium-ion battery located under the floor. Charging time varies between 6 and 8 hours, with each full charge costing EUR1.5 ($2.05) and the average driving range being around 170 km (105 miles).
As with its other electric models, Renault will offer clients the possibility of either buying or leasing the car, with an additional monthly subscription to be paid for the battery (from EUR72/$99). Renault's calculations indicate the annual maintenance cost for the Kangoo Maxi Z.E. will be similar to the conventional model if the distance traveled is less than 15,000 km (9,320 miles), and become more competitive as the mileage grows.
Pre-tax pricing in Europe starts from €21,200 ($29,100), with prices in France after a €5,000 state subsidy beginning from €16,200 ($22,250), which is very close to the price of a diesel-engined Kangoo Maxi.


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Renault “XV de France” Clio and Megane Editions

For the third year in a row, Renault will have “XV de France” editions of the Clio and Megane models in its lineup, marking the automaker’s involvement in rugby as a sponsor of the French national team. The difference is that this year, the “limited editions” have become full-fledged “versions”, fully integrated into the brand’s catalogue and available for purchase all year-round. The Megane is available in estate, hatch and coupe body styles, while the Clio can be ordered as a 3-door, 5-door and estate.
“The 2011 ‘XV de France’ versions are very different from the limited editions of previous years”, explains Megane product manager Raphaelle Jarry. “As well as being true to the rugby spirit, they introduce a new angle”.

Based on the Dynamique (Megane) and Dynamique TomTom (Clio) trim levels, the “XV de France” versions boast a unique Marron Glace paintjob (except the Clio estate), accompanied by special upholstery in the interior. Distinctive alloys are also on the menu, while the French Rugby Federation emblems applied to the front wings and inside the cabin represent the finishing touch.
The “XV de France” Clio’s standard equipment list includes navigation, 80W CD/MP3/Bluetooth sound system with speech recognition and streaming capabilities, automatic air conditioning, cruise control and 16-inch wheels.
The “XV de France” Megane comes with satnav, plus front and rear parking sensors, electrically adjustable fold-back mirrors and bigger, 17-inch alloys.
Engine choices include two diesel (95/105HP) and two gasoline (100/110HP) units for the Clio and one gasoline (130HP) powerplant and four diesels (110/130/150HP) for the Megane.
A total of 15,500 “XV de France” vehicles will be built, including 5,500 Meganes and 10,000 Clios.

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