(Wed 07 May 09)

While we're on the subject of the Renault Kangoo, Renault has unveiled an electric version at its shareholder AGM in Paris.

It's known as the Kangoo be bop ZE, and it gives some idea of how Renault is progressing along the road to full-production electric vehicles, which it is scheduled to put on the market early in 2011.

By then, Renault hopes to be able to claim a range of 100 miles. The be bop ZE can manage a maximum of 60 miles, and to do that Renault has had to improve the Kangoo's aerodynamics by lowering the ride height (it's 20mm nearer the ground than standard) and fitting full-disc wheels.

The batteries use lithium-ion technology, which has become pretty much the industry standard, and the electric motor provides up to 60bhp. Charging takes between six and eight hours on a household mains supply, or you can take the batteries up to 80% charge in 30 minutes via a 400V three-phase socket.

Renault Gallery
Renault Road Tests

Previous: Special Chrysler Grand Voyager                          Next: Renault Kangoo Pricing