What's the news?
Renault, flushed with success after proving Europe's number one electric vehicle (EV) brand in 2018 with almost 50,000 units sold and 22.2 per cent market share, is announcing some changes for its EVs here in Ireland.
The Zoe, for instance, boasts a theoretical maximum range of 317km but it's the only long-range EV on sale in Ireland for less than €25,000. Capable of charging itself to a range of 85km in just 30 minutes, the good news for Zoe customers here is that the long-range 40 battery is now standard across the range. The line-up remains the regular R90 motor on the Expression, with the more powerful R110 unit on the Dynamique Nav and Signature Nav models. Prices start from €24,990 after VRT relief and the SEAI grant.
Meanwhile, the Kangoo ZE 33 which launched last year has already become Ireland's leading EV van. It's priced from €28,190 after the SEAI grant of €3,800 for businesses, with a full 33kWh charge taking six hours and 33km of range possible in just one hour of recharging.
Renault is further committing to electric vehicles by appointing a dedicated ZE (zero emissions) Champion in each of its Irish dealerships, this being an EV expert who will be on hand to answer all customer queries about living with EVs.
Anything else?
Patrick Magee, country operations director for Renault Ireland, said: "The electric vehicle market is growing in Ireland and we are proud to have the only long-range electric vehicle in Ireland under €25,000, the Zoe 40, now available with more powerful motors and added extras as standard. EVs are forecast to double annually in the coming years, potentially reaching as much as 6 per cent of the new car market in 2020. Our electric range's rapid-charging capabilities and 0 per cent APR finance make it a perfect choice for Irish motorists and 0 per cent BIK offers added benefits for fleet customers. We encourage those considering the switch to electric to drop into any Renault dealership and experience our EVs for 24 hours."