• Gasoline Engine Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet 2011

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet off Renault Megane renewal cycle with the introduction of style-up lines sixth body type. Seeing the striking newcomer combines the elegance of a coupe with the promise of the sensation that goes hand in hand with the driving cab.

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is based on the strengths that have shaped the success of its predecessor – including high, and the folding glass roof of a raft of simple d’usage – but he went even further by offering customers:

    * Influenced by the open-top drivers thanks to the advanced position of the windshield and the wind deflector on the glass remains located behind the rear headrests,
    * Performance extraordinary handling with a rigid chassis and a new electrical system, power steering,
    * A wide choice of engines, including one that can be ordered with a new automatic EDC (Efficient dual-clutch) transmission.
    * Attention to quality, with a high gloss black and satin chrome effect exterior.

    Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is made simultaneously with the sights and Grand Scenic Renault plant in Douai in France. Therefore benefit from the experience gained since the program began Megane, including the assembly of the first generation Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet.

    Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is an open invitation to enjoy another way to make cars, and a new feature elegant illustration of Renault, “Leading Change.”

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet will go on sale in the spring of 2010.

    LOOKING catch all corner

    Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet complete the update of the Megane family car style with the intrinsic appeal sure to turn heads.

    Appearance respectable elegance radiates supported by a large glass roof that tells you it is really a show, even in coupe configuration. This high-gloss black glass roof contrasts with the effects of satin chrome windshield, while the size of the scan to add end firmly believe that more than fair to the convertible character. Dark red taillights have a linear structure, lighting and LED brake lights to get the typical signature taillights.

    The interior uses the same elegance and sophistication that apply, not only through quality materials and high quality finish, but also to three topping options, ranging from black to charcoal and charcoal, beige and red two-tone leather seats finished with.

    Although the dashboard is identical to float Renault Megane Hatchback, chairs provide additional lateral support, while the butterfly door panel trim wing specifically for the Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet and add ‘inherent dignity of newcomers.

    CHIC AND PRACTICE

    Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet residents to enjoy the sensation of undisturbed open top car in all conditions.

    Standards drawn glass hardtop has a transparent glass area of 0.47 square meters (one best segments) to ensure the cabin light and a feeling of space and freedom. It also ensures the comfort of exceptional acoustic and thermal as well as ensuring greater protection against vandalism. A fully automatic, electro-hydraulic mechanism of the opening two-part roof allows the driver to lower the top in just 21 seconds with the touch of a button.

    With the top down, drivers and passengers feel the true meaning of freedom. Entry and exit facilitated by a more advanced position of the windscreen rail, which has developed over 6cm Renault Megane II Coupe-Cabriolet.

    To ensure that all residents can enjoy the fun ride in the open air without shortcomings, Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is equipped with a glass wind deflector set (one segment) was placed behind the rear head restraints. This arrangement allows four people to enjoy the free flow of driving at speeds up to 90 km / h and, when used in conjunction with a removable screen mesh wind deflector behind the front seat, allowing two residents free travel regardless of the speed of vibration.

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet 4485 mm long, to ensure that the driver and three passengers enjoy a level of comfort expected from a family car.

    The driver has the right to consider both the environment and comfortable place associated with the control solution was used for the Renault Megane hatchback and Megane Coupe:

    * Check gathered both at the steering wheel or the center console,
    * High and front / rear, driver’s seat (by 70 mm and 240 mm respectively),
    * Memory for the front seat, after stung nose
    * Coverage and height adjusted steering (by 45mm and five degrees of each).

    In addition to the Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet sharpened lines carefully, special attention has been made to ensure that packages are also comfortable, and that includes the boot:

    * Automatic shutdown simple, secure locking,
    * Capacity (417 liters with the roof, and 211 liters with the roof)
    * Easy access, with the best segment Sill height (590mm above the ground) and opening (258mm) with a roof, allowing three cases the performance of crew members coast to coast.

    A raft PRACTICE IN HIGH-TECH FEATURES friendly

    Like all the models that make up the family Megane, Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is available with a long list of high-tech features, many of which relate to more easily segment Next up:

    * Starting hands and the hands-free like the leaves of the card holder to lock the vehicle,
    * Electric parking brake,
    * Automatic dual-zone, three-mode (soft-self-rapid) climate control,
    * Bi-Xenon directional
    * In combination digital / analog display instruments,
    * New color-coded cruise control / speed limiter set,
    * 3D Sound with Arkamys Audio ® Music with Plug & Connectivity (USB, mini-jack)
    * TomTom Navigation Carminat ®, the market is more competitive now integrated in the sat-nav system,
    * Custom settings and activation / deactivation certain functions (daytime running lights, the volume of the bell in the nearby parking lot).

    A perfectly smooth RIDE

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet offers the same high level of precision and driving the Megane Sedan Megane Coupé to give a lift, both responsive:

    * Suspension is MacPherson-type front attached to the so-called ‘horned subframe, a setting that provides a level of lateral rigidity three times higher than the previous generation Megane Coupé-Cabriolet.
    * The torsion beam rear suspension features a lighter, sealed beam profile that provides enhanced torsional rigidity.
    * The new system electric power steering is more sensitive and delicate, and provide information more precise information of the road.

    The body’s torsional rigidity has increased 80 percent compared with the Renault Megane II Coupe-Cabriolet to match the increased stiffness of the suspension and even more precise handling, whether the roof up or down.

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is available with a choice of seven efficient and environmentally friendly gasoline and diesel powertrain configurations.

    Gasoline engine:

    * Engine 1.6 16V 110 hp mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
    * TCE 130 (Turbo-effectiveness of the control) driven by a gearbox six-speed manual.
    * Engine 2.0 16V 140 bhp is available with a new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for greater driving comfort thanks to the smooth, step less speed change.

    Diesel range includes Euro 5 certified powerplants below:

    * DCI 110 FAP is mated with the all-new six-speed EDC (Efficient double clutch) automatic transmission or dualclutch six-speed manual.
    * DCI 130 FAP who pushed through a gearbox six-speed manual.
    * DCI 160 FAP also with gearbox six-speed manual.

    EDC (Efficient dual clutch) dual-clutch automatic transmission

    Speed six EDC (Efficient dual clutch) dual-clutch automatic transmission is ideal for the supply of Renault to combine driving comfort, driving pleasure and environmental friendly. Based on the DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) technology, this is a real solution for a clean break compared to a conventional automatic transmission to thank:

    * CO2 emissions and fuel consumption comparable to vehicles equipped with manual transmissions,
    * Fast, smooth gear changes automatically,
    * Immediately response to a request from the driver.

    THE PLEASURE OF OPEN-TOP CAR WITH TOTAL SECURITY

    When it comes to safety, the new-Renault Megane Coupe Cabriolet has extensive expertise in this field mark. Like all the models that form the Megane range has been designed to boast the best performance of passive and active safety.

    Various tools are available to help drivers anticipate risk situations:

    * Seat belt warning light front
    * Tire pressure monitoring system,
    * Bi-Xenon signalized intersection in the direction of the curve,
    * Enable automatic headlights
    * Enable automatic wipers,
    * Cruise-speed limiter.

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is equipped with a full range of drivers as well:

    * ABS with electronic brake distribution,
    * Assist emergency braking,
    * ESC control with understeer.

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet Head of passive safety features are:

    * Scheduled to protect the structural deformation of the cabin – and thus the passengers – in the case of a bearing, by strengthening the pillars of the windshield, side of the body, and ground support
    * Deployment pyrotechnic rollover automatically detect obstacles that must be dedicated rollover sensor is near,
    * Safety belt pretensioners and load limiters,
    * Adaptive front airbags,
    * Head of double volume / thorax / pelvis side airbags,
    * Anti-submarining airbags incorporated into the front seat cushions,
    * Side impact sensors,
    * Anti-whiplash head resistance,
    * Anchor ISOFIX child seat into the back seat.

     
  • 2011 Renault Wind

    Renault will present its brand new coupé roadster – Renault Wind – world premiere at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show on March 2.

    Renault Wind is a two-seater roadster coupe 3.83 meters long, which provides a very innovative way of opening. The novel opens with a roof electric tour in just 12 seconds, Renault wind brings the perspective completely different from a car for drivers who enjoy open-top motor.

    Renault Wind intended for drivers who lust after a car that is not only different and compact, but also conversion and practical enough for everyday use.

    Despite its compact dimensions make Renault Wind lively team and near the city, is the only car in its class to offer more luggage space (VDA 270dm3), regardless of the position of the roof.

    In accordance with the signature of the Renault brand, “driving the change, Renault wind makes the passion for all people.

     
  • 2011 Renault Megane CC Reveiws

    Renault is preparing to expand New Megane line-up with a sparkling sixth model, the Coupé-Cabriolet. The launch of the convertible hardtop new is planned for the famous Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland.Like its predecessor, one of the highlights of 2011 Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is an elegant folding glass roof. The small piece of information released by the French manufacturer contain no information of power units of the new Megane CC, but I think we can expect a similar scope to that offered on the Megane Coupe.

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet round of updates Renault Megane family style with the introduction of a line-up of the six body types. Obvious newcomer combines the elegance of a coupé with the promise of feeling that goes along with car hire.

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is based on the strengths that have forged the success of its predecessor – as a large folding glass roof and a host of user-friendly tools – but still go further by providing customers with:

    * Easy open first position through the front windshield of the car and keep the glass wind deflector behind the rear headrests,
    * Handling for superb performance rigid chassis and a new electric power steering system,
    * A wide range of engines, including one that may be ordered with all new automatic EDC (Efficient dual-clutch) transmission.
    * Take special attention to quality, including high gloss black and satin chrome exterior features effect.

    Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is done with the sights and Grand Scenic Renault plant in Douai, France. This result benefited from the experience gained since the beginning of the Megane programs, including an assembly of previous generation Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet.

    Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is an open invitation to enjoy an alternative way to go engine, and is an elegant example of the Renault brand new signature ‘push for change. ”

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet to the sale took place in spring 2010.

    The capture of the eyes from all angles

    Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet car completes the updating of Megane family style with the intrinsic appeal sure to turn heads.

    His appearance respectable exudes elegance backed by a large glass roof that tells you that this is clearly a taxi, even in coupe configuration. This high-gloss black glass ceiling effect, in contrast with the satin chrome windshield frame, while scanning the waist adds high end seems to feel that more than justice to the person to rent a car. Dark red lights of a linear function of the patterns of illumination and LED brake lights to provide a different signature backlighting.

    Bringing the interior design of the same is true of elegance and improvements, not only by the quality of materials used and the high level of finish, but also three decorative choices, ranging from coal and dark light beige to charcoal and red two-tone finish with a leather seat.

    Although the floating board is identical to that of the Megane saloon, seats offer extra lateral support, while the “butterfly” special door trim panels for the Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet and the inherent elegance adds newcomers.

    CHIC AND PRACTICE

    Renault Megane Coupe Cabriolet residents benefit from a sense of tranquility open top automobile in all conditions.

    Standard hard folding glass roof has an area of clear glass square 0.47 meters (more segments) to ensure a lighted cabin and feeling of space and freedom. This extraordinary guarantee thermal comfort and acoustics, and ensuring greater protection against vandalism. A fully automatic electro, hydraulics of the opening of two side roof allows the driver to lower the top in just 21 seconds with the push of a button.

    With the top down, drivers and passengers are equally enjoy real freedom. In and out is easier with a more advanced position of the windshield header bar that had been proposed by 6 cm compared with the Renault Megane II Coupé-Cabriolet.

    To ensure that all passengers can benefit from the rise of outdoor fun, without limitation, Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is equipped with fixed glass deflector wind (unique in the segment) is behind the rear seat head restraints . This arrangement allows four people to enjoy the free movement of driving at speeds up to 90 km / h, and, when used in conjunction with a removable mesh screen deflector behind the front seat, allowing two inmates in freedom from shocks of any speed.

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is 4485 mm long to ensure that the driver and three passengers enjoy the comfort levels of a family car.

    The driver was treated carefully through the neighborhood and comfortable place that offers more control than the previous solution used for the Megane Renault Megane Hatchback and Coupé:

    * Control of collection, both on the steering wheel or central console,
    * High and front / rear adjustable driver’s seat (with 70 mm and 240 mm respectively),
    * Position Memory front seats, after a tip to the front,
    * Achieve and high steering wheel (45 mm and five degrees of each).

    Besides Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet carefully tuned-line, special attention has gone to ensure that it is also a set of practices, which includes the boot:

    * The automatic shutdown of a simple, safe lock
    * Large capacity (417 liters with the roof, and 211 liters with the roof down),
    * Easy access, with the segment of the level of the best threshold (590 mm above the ground) and aperture (258mm) with the roof down, allowing three cases should be done with the cabin.

    A series of practical, easy to use high-tech features

    Like all models in the family Megane, Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is available with a long list of high high-tech features, the easier to relate to the next segment up to:

    * Hands-free start, and cardholders handsfree car block away,
    * Electric parking brake,
    * Automatic dual-zone in three ways (soft-auto-fast) climate control,
    * Bi-xenon directional headlights,
    * The combination digital / analog display instruments
    * New color-coded interface speed control speed limiter
    * 3D sound audio with Plug & Music Arkamys ® connectivity (USB, mini-jack connector)
    * TomTom navigation Carminat Market ® under the most competitive prices SAT-built navigation system
    * Lights custom configuration and activation / deactivation of certain functions (during the day, the sound volume of parking proximity warning).

    Perfect Smooth Ride

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet offers the same high standards of accuracy and driving the Megane Hatchback Mégane Coupé to offer a fun ride this answer:

    * The MacPherson-type front suspension attaches to the “sub-rack of horns’, an agreement that guarantees the level of lateral rigidity, which is three times larger than the previous generation Megane Coupe-Cabriolet.
    * The rear suspension torsion bar that features more light, sealed beam profile, which provides greater torsional rigidity.
    * New power steering system feedback information is more sensitive and gentle, and even more accurate off the road.

    The body’s torsional rigidity has been uprated by 80 percent compared with the Renault Megane II Coupé-Cabriolet to match the increased stiffness of the suspension and conduct more precise, if the roof up or down.

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is available with a choice of seven efficient and environmentally friendly gasoline and configurations of diesel propulsion system.

    Fuel:

    * The 1.6 16V 110hp engine mated to a gearbox six-speed manual.
    * The TCE 130 (Turbo Control efficiency) driving through a gearbox six-speed manual.
    * The 2.0 16V 140hp engine is available with a new continuously variable transmission (CVT) for greater driving comfort due to soft step, fewer gear changes.

    Diesel engine consists of several approved electrical Euro5 following:

    * 110 DCI DPF, both mated to a brand new six-speed EDC (Efficient double clutch) automatic transmission dualclutch six-speed manual gearbox.
    * ID DPF 130 which drives through a gearbox six-speed manual.
    * 160 DPF DCI also six-speed manual gearbox.

    EDC (Efficient dual clutch) dual-clutch automatic transmission

    Speed six EDC (Efficient dual clutch) dual-clutch automatic transmission adjusting the offer to join the Renault driving comfort, driving pleasure and respect for the environment. Based on the DCT (dual clutch transmission) technology was highlighted as a clean-break compared to the original solution of the conventional automatic transmission to thank:

    * CO2 emissions and fuel consumption comparable to vehicles equipped with manual gearbox,
    * Fast, smooth, automatic gear shifts,
    * The rapid response to the demands of the driver.

    THE PLEASURE OF OPEN-TOP automotive TOTAL SECURITY

    When it comes to safety, the new Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet realize the great benefits of a brand experience in this field. Like all models that form the Megane range, are designed to show off exemplary performance in passive and active safety.

    There are several tools available to help drivers anticipate risk situations:

    * Front seat belt warning light,
    * The pressure of the pneumatic control systems,
    * Bi-Xenon directional lights headlamps block immersion
    * Lighthouses of automatic activation
    * Automatic activation of windscreen wipers,
    * Cruise control with speed limiter.

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet is equipped with a full set of drivers as well:

    * ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution,
    * Emergency brake assist,
    * ESC with understeer control.

    New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet head passive safety features are:

    * Programmable structural deformation that is designed to protect the cockpit – and therefore the people – in the case of overturning, by strengthening the windscreen pillars, body side, skirts and soil,
    * Automatic deployment of the circle should be dedicated pyrotechnic rollover sensors detect a rollover is imminent,
    * The safety belt pretensioners with load limiters,
    * Adaptive front air bags,
    * Dual-Head Volume / chest / pelvis side airbags,
    * Anti-submarining airbags are incorporated into the front seat cushions,
    * Side-impact sensors,
    * Anti-whiplash head restraints,
    * Isofix child seat to the rear of the port.

     
  • 2009 Renault Zoe ZE Concept

    Renault Zoe ZE Concept is evidence that an all-electric zero-emission vehicle can also boast smart, appealing looks. Renault Zoe ZE Concept features technology aimed at extending its range and enhancing the travelling comfort of all occupants.

    Renault Zoe ZE Concept is a compact, versatile daily driver which represents a new way of experiencing mobility.

    AN ECONOMICAL AND ECOLOGICAL SOLUTION

    Renault Zoe ZE Concept targets motorists who own more than one car and who are looking for a compact, versatile vehicle capable of meeting their varied day-to-day needs, such as the school or work run, or shopping trips.

    Renault Zoe ZE Concept is an all-electric, zero-emission vehicle which reconciles motoring with the environmental aspirations of customers looking for a vehicle with the best possible ecological footprint.

    SLEEK STYLING

    Renault Zoe ZE Concept invites its occupants to enjoy familiar pleasures. Using cutting-edge electric-vehicle technology, Zoe ZE Concept is proof that a zero-emission vehicle can also possess a dynamic, edgy, attractive design which immediately points to driving enjoyment. Aerodynamics have a significant influence on the performance of a zero-emission vehicle and, in the case of the Zoe ZE Concept project, the overriding concerns regarding design were elegance and efficiency.

    Renault Zoe ZE Concept is just 4.10m long and is powered by a 70kW electric motor which develops 226Nm of torque. It is easy to imagine the vehicle making its way silently through traffic in built-up areas. The large 21-inch wheels and large body panels are reassuring touches that give the four occupants complete peace of mind when travelling out of town.

    At the rear, a retractable spoiler deploys at speeds in excess of 90kph to make a further contribution to Zoe ZE Concept’s aerodynamic efficiency. This LED-equipped spoiler also serves as a brake light, as does the integrated light in the shark’s fin-type aerial on the roof.

    The exterior design of Renault Zoe ZE Concept incorporates technologies aimed at reasserting its ‘zero-emission’ credentials:

    * The roof has been designed as an intelligent protective membrane that insulates the occupants from heat and cold, as well as optimizing climate control performance by recovering energy via its honeycomb photovoltaic cells.
    * At front and rear, a shield of polyurethane gel protects the lights which feature energy-efficient electroluminescent diodes that emit a blue-tinted light. This second skin protects vulnerable components from small knocks in town, while underlining this electric concept car’s hi-tech feel.
    * The air intakes situated either side of the car channel airflow to cool the batteries. The air is extracted through two large rear channels through which it is possible to glimpse the streamlined suspension arms.
    * Rearward vision is handled by two small, profiled, energy-efficient cameras which transmit images to the interior rear view mirror, giving the driver perfect visibility without blind spots.
    * The front features scissor doors, while rear access is through butterfly-style doors. The clever and original design of the rear doors means they also double up as openings for the boot, allowing carrying space to be accessed from the side, from the pavement, for example.

    AN INTERIOR DESIGNED TO PROFIT FULLY FROM THE SILENT RIDE

    The form of the front seat cushions resembles that of an asymmetric pebble, while the seatbacks are attached to the roof. At the rear, the seats can be folded flat with a view to obtaining additional carrying capacity.

    The dashboard contributes to the interior’s uncluttered feel. It is covered with an intelligent, minerallike membrane and the lightest of touches calls up a range of touchscreen controls. The wide TFT (Thin Film Transistor) screen is housed in a glass bubble. This is the central information point for Renault Zoe ZE Concept and serves to display navigation data, the charge indicator and remaining range, as well as a pallet of coloured mood lighting options which enable the interior ambiance to be customized. This mood lighting can also be selected automatically via a sensor in the seat which will tone the lighting to match the colours of the driver’s clothes.

    Information is presented by an avatar that appears on the TFT screen, creating a link between the driver and the technology thanks to short messages. The avatar can be personalized (male, female, downloadable from the internet), and provides information about traffic conditions, the route and remaining range. It can also indicate the nearest charging points. This way of humanizing the technology makes it more accessible and creates a relationship with the driver to ensure that journeys are as pleasant as possible.

    The hands-free keycard can be personalized, too, by fixing a chip to an object of the customer’s choosing to enable automatic door locking and ignition.

    Finally, the climate control system does much more than simply adjusts the temperature. It also enhances the travelling experience thanks to an innovative triple-function system:

    * Hydrating function. In contrast to conventional climate control systems, which can tend to dry out the air, small dashboard-mounted vaporizers spray an exclusive active substance to rehydrate the skin and exude a sensation of wellbeing.
    * ‘Detox’ function. A toxicity sensor monitors air quality and shuts off the airvents if required. Then, in addition to extracting harmful substances, the cabin filters deliver others which benefit the skin.
    * Active scent function. An electric system exhales essential oils suited to the mood of the moment: something mellow for a relaxing drive home, perhaps, or the need to stimulate concentration when driving at night.

    This triple-function system has been developed in association with Biotherm®, the skin biology brand of L’Oréal’s Luxury Products Division.

    After a journey in Renault Zoe ZE Concept, occupants will feel more relaxed, just like after a spa treatment.

    THREE BATTERY-CHARGING TECHNIQUES

    The driver has three options when it comes to ‘filling up’ on energy:

    * A standard charge: takes between four and eight hours, via a charging socket situated on the outside of the vehicle.
    * A quick charge: in 20 minutes, using the same socket at specific charging points.
    * The exclusive ‘Quickdrop’ system: three minutes at a rapid battery exchange station.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    * MOTOR

    • Type: Electric
    • Transmission type: Direct drive with forward/reverse inverters
    • Maximum power: 70kW (95 hp)
    • Maximum torque: 225 Nm

    * BATTERY

    • Type: Lithium-ion
    • Range: 160km

    * STEERING AND BRAKES

    • Power steering
    • Electric variable rate powersteering
    • Parking brake Electric

    * DIMENSIONS

    • Rims: 21″
    • Length: 4,100 mm
    • Width: 1,840 mm
    • Height: 1,516 mm
    • Wheelbase: 2,605 mm
    • Front/rear track: 1,626/1,626 mm
    • Front/rear overhang: 747/719 mm
    • Unladen weight: 1,400 kg
    • Tyres: 185/55 R21
    • Boot volume (VDA) Between 150 and 500 dm3 with 4/3/2 occupants: 150/325/500dm3

    * PERFORMANCE

    • Aerodynamic performance: 0.25 CdA
    • Top speed: 140 km/h
     
  • 2009 Renault Fluence ZE Concept

    Renault Fluence ZE Concept is a statement of Renault’s intention to produce a range of zeroemission vehicles that meet the needs of all types of customer. Renault Fluence ZE Concept is a genuine family car which demonstrates that attractive styling, comfort and space can go hand in hand with respect for the environment.

    Renault Fluence ZE Concept is an all-electric car with a range of 160km. The battery can be charged using one of three methods: a standard charge (between four and eight hours), a quick charge (20 minutes) or an immediate solution (three minutes) in the form of the exclusive ‘Quickdrop’ rapid battery exchange system.

    Renault Fluence ZE Concept previews the forthcoming electric version of Fluence, and represents a solution to zero-emission motoring in the world of tomorrow.

    A FAMILY FATHER LOOKING FOR AN ECOLOGICAL FAMILY CAR

    You don’t have to be young, rich, single, trendy and living in the city to drive an electric car. Renault has proved as much with Renault Fluence ZE Concept, a car aimed squarely at the single-car family father who would use the car every day to go to the office, but who would also want to take his wife and children to the country at the weekend. Therefore, the car needs to serve to an extent as a status symbol, but it must also provide enough interior space to function as a comfortable family car. The owner is environmentally aware, but wants to maintain his or her lifestyle and habits, too, without feeling guilty for it.

    Renault Fluence ZE Concept meets this need. This status-enhancing, ecological family car claims a range of 160km, while its battery can be charged on one of three ways, including the ultra-fast battery exchange option which takes less than three minutes. Fluence ZE Concept also allows the driver to make urban, country and motorway journeys with total peace of mind.

    ELECTRIC MOBILITY WITH A PASSION

    The styling cues of Renault Fluence ZE Concept combine the design language of motoring pleasure with the visual signature of Renault’s range of electric vehicles.

    Renault Fluence ZE Concept possesses dynamic lines, highlighted by a fluid character line which sweeps from the headlights to the rear shoulders. It is 4,820mm long, has a wide track of 1,672 mm, is wellproportioned and exudes status-enhancing, elegant looks.

    Its identity as an electric vehicle is expressed through the graphic treatment of the cooling ducts, the fins of which are reminiscent of heat transfer surfaces, and this theme is echoed in different ways in the design of the headlights and motor cover. The photovoltaic cells located on the panoramic roof, dashboard and rear parcel shelf form a geometric grid pattern which has been carried over to the grille and seat upholstery.

    Renault Fluence ZE Concept also clearly belongs to Renault’s ‘family’ of electric vehicles thanks to:

    * its Atmosphere Blue body colour,
    * the specific luminous blue signature which features in the curved lower part of the body sides,
    * the use of LEDs at the front and rear,
    * the design of its headlights,
    * the recess behind the logo on the bonnet.

    The headlights convey the same impression of softness suggested by the vehicle’s overall lines and colour. They are a high-tech feature, too: beneath the ‘eyelids’ formed by the indicators, the beams of the main headlights are precise and piercing, with the light focused into a single beam by means of a system of prisms.

    The vehicle’s status-enhancing credentials are further emphasised by the employment of chrome trimming for the belt-line and grille, as well as by its impressive 21-inch wheels. Blue polycarbonate hubcaps seem to slot into the aluminium wheels to create a spiral form which channels the airflow and improves aerodynamic performance.

    LUXURY, HARMONY AND… ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    Renault Fluence ZE Concept’s warmly welcoming and refined interior is based on a combination of flowing forms, the use of soft, supple materials and a mottled ambience. Passengers are comfortably seated in four enveloping seats robed in light leather upholstery. The feet rest on a light blue translucent gel mat, while the brake and accelerator pedals, too, are covered in gel for a greater sense of comfort. When the doors open, the courtesy lighting recalls the luminous blue signature of Renault’s electric vehicle range.

    The technology used for the dashboard is sophisticated and intuitive. A TFT (Thin Film Transistor) touchscreen displays multimedia information and essential journey-related information such as the navigation function and the location of the nearest ‘Quickdrop’ station. The display also provides data specific to electric vehicles, such as range optimization information, for example.

    The centre console incorporates two floating armrests and forms a fluid, rearward-flowing arc. At the front, the integrated central front armrest includes the stop/start button, the air-conditioning and volume controls, as well as the new touchscreen Samsung Jet phone. This phone comes with a hands-free function, and also enables occupants to listen to music or enjoy a film on the screens which have been built into the front seatbacks. The central rear armrest incorporates the climate control and volume controls, plus another Samsung Jet telephone and two remote controls for the two screens.

    Significant care has also gone into the design of the door panels: the door handles echo the rounded form of the centre console and the electric window controls are flush with the surface, while the viewing screen for the rear-view cameras is integrated discreetly yet effectively.

    Renault Fluence ZE Concept is not respectful of the environment simply because it runs on electricity. Indeed, the entire car has been thought through to optimize energy use:

    * the photovoltaic cells meet part of the car’s energy requirements with a view to complementing the power supplied by the battery,
    * the headlights use high-performance electroluminescent diodes which deliver an excellent trade-off between efficiency and energy consumption,
    * the triple-zone climate control system allows occupants to achieve just the right settings for the two seats at the front and at the rear. The air vents also feature a dynamic lighting code, with blue representing the passage of cold air and red representing warm air,
    * the car’s aerodynamics have been meticulously honed to minimize drag, including streamlined rear-view mirrors with integrated rearward facing cameras, a completely enclosed underside incorporating a diffuser at the rear, and spiral-form wheel rims,
    * Renault Fluence ZE Concept runs on low rolling resistance Michelin tyres.

    Renault Fluence ZE Concept is powered exclusively by an electric motor located near the front axle, in conjunction with a lithium-ion battery positioned between the rear seats and the boot. Renault’s designers and engineers worked closely together to develop a safe, practical vehicle capable of accommodating a large enough battery to ensure good range (160km), while also providing sufficient carrying capacity to cater for the requirements of an active family (327dm3).

    THREE BATTERY-CHARGING TECHNIQUES

    The driver has three options when it comes to ‘filling up’ on energy:

    * A standard charge: takes between four and eight hours, via a charging socket situated on the outside of the vehicle.
    * A quick charge: in 20 minutes, using the same socket at specific charging points.
    * The exclusive ‘Quickdrop’ system: three minutes at a rapid battery exchange station.

    Renault Fluence ZE Concept provides a foretaste of the forthcoming electric version of Renault Fluence, and represents a solution to zero-emission motoring in the world of tomorrow.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    * MOTOR

    • Type: Electric
    • Transmission type: Direct drive with forward/reverse inverter
    • Maximum power: 70 kW (95 hp)
    • Maximum torque: 226 Nm
    • BATTERY
    • Type: Lithium-ion
    • Range : 160 km

    * STEERING

    • Power steering
    • Electric variable-rate powersteering

    * DIMENSIONS

    • Rims: 21″
    • Length: 4,820 mm
    • Width: 1,882 mm
    • Height: 1,520 mm
    • Wheelbase: 2,696 mm
    • Front/rear track: 1,672/1,672 mm
    • Front/rear overhang: 996/1,135 mm
    • Unladen weight: 1,600 kg
    • Tyres: 175/55 R21
    • Boot volume (VDA): 327 dm3

    * PARTNERS

    • Body: Protostyle
    • Tyres: Michelin
    • Sealing: Rehau
    • LED lighting: Osram