Renault unveils all-electric concept in Paris
Thursday, 02 Oct 2008 14:45
Renault takes on the all-electric challenge with its concept
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Renault has shown the public an example of its commitment to electric vehicles with a concept car making its debut at the Paris Motor Show.
The ZE Concept is Renault's 'vision' of the electric vehicle in the near future. It is based on the new Kangoo be bop, with a 'fun' design focusing on minimising energy consumption.
Power is provided by a 70kW (95hp) electric motor which delivers torque of 226Nm, making it particularly flexible, responsive and comfortable to use. Batteries are lithium-ion type.
The use of heat-reflective paint and insulating bodywork featuring large surface areas contributes to the reduction of temperature fluctuations.
Traditionally this prompts the use of climate control or heating systems which are big consumers of energy. Insulation is further optimised by the use of acid green-tinted glass for the glazed areas.
The bodywork functions along the same lines as a Thermos flask. It comprises two insulating panels with a sandwich of air.
This air, which is still the most effective insulator known today, limits variations in temperature between the exterior and the interior of the car.
The headlamps use efficient, high-performance light-emitting diodes (LEDs) which are not only long lasting but also low consumers of energy.
Optimising energy management is consequently a key aspect of the research that has gone into the technology employed for this concept car.