As expected, Renault unveiled today an all-new third-generation Renault ZOE, which is better than its predecessor in all ways.
The French subcompact was significantly restyled on the exterior and the outcome is very positive we think. The new LED headlights (standard across the range) are now interestingly integrated into the front bar, which moves towards the logo/charging port door. Overall, the new ZOE looks more dynamic and there are cool new colors to choose from.
The interior also was heavily redesigned and now seems to be a much simpler, cleaner design. Renault boasts a 10-inch TFT instrument cluster, EASY LINK multimedia system, premium interior materials (soft touch plastics), 100% recycled seat trim on Iconic model and wireless smartphone charging option.
The new Z.E. 50 battery
New ZOE will be available with new Z.E. 50 battery pack, which holds... 52 kWh of usable capacity (26.8% more compared to the 41 kWh previously in the Z.E. 40). The pack is still actively air cooled using a fan, so no liquid cooling.
Range of the new ZOE to be 390 km (242 miles) under the WLTP test cycle, compared to 300 km (186 miles) previously (30% more).
R135 electric motor
The new R135 electric motor in ZOE can deliver up to 100 kW of power and 245 Nm of torque, compared to 80 kW and 225 Nm previously.
Higher output translates into quicker acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h (50 to 75 mph) in 7.1 seconds, 2.2 seconds better than previously.
Interestingly, the old 80 kW R110 motor still will be available as an entry-level option.
DC and AC charging using CCS Combo 2 inlet
The big change for Renault is the first implementation of DC fast charging in ZOE. Through CCS Combo 2 inlet, ZOE can charge:
- DC at up to 50 kW (not much, but it's a city car anyway)
- AC up to 22 kW (3-phase) or up to 7.3 kW (1-phase) we guess
Overall, the fast charging shouldn't take more than an hour.
Moreover, Renault introduced a stronger regenerative braking mode B, that "allows single pedal driving" most of the time, although not to the full stop we heard.
The charging will be easier using real-time charging information through the EASY CONNECT app.
Renault ZOE
The new version brings also set of safety features like the Active Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) and Auto High/Low beam headlamps (AHL).
All in all, this is the best ZOE ever made and hopefully will enable Renault to further leverage the EV market in the subcompact segment. The segment, which with the latest PSA's EVs (Peugeot e-208 and Opel Corsa-e) sees increasing competition and progress.
Below you can find a lot of new images/photos and the first set of videos of the ZOE.
Renault ZOE R135 specs:
- 52 kWh lithium-ion battery (air cooled)
- Battery pack: 400 V nominal, 192 cells, 10 modules, 326 kg of weight, 160 Wh/kg
- up to 390 km (242 miles) of WLTP range
- 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 10 seconds
- 80-120 km/h (50 to 75 mph) in 7.1 seconds
- top speed of 140 km/h (87 mph)
- R135 electric motor: 100 kW of peak power and 245 Nm of peak torque
- R110 electric motor (option): 80 kW of peak power and 225 Nm of peak torque
- DC fast charging using CCS Combo 2, up to 50 kW
- AC charging of up to 22 kW (3-phase)
Gallery: 2019 Renault ZOE
Gallery: Renault Zoe studio
Non English preview:
NEW ZOE: INCREASED RANGE, GREATER PERFORMANCE, ENHANCED TECH AND FRESH NEW LOOK FOR ALL-ELECTRIC HATCHBACK
New ZOE at glance
- Increased power and range from new 52 kWh battery
- Powerful 100kW R135 electric motor delivers even stronger acceleration
- Range of 242 miles under WLTP conditions*
- Restyled exterior with more dynamic look and new colours
- Redesigned interior with premium materials and 10-inch TFT instrument cluster
- 100 percent recycled seat trim on Iconic model
- Faster charging with option of 50kW DC capability
- LED headlamps standard across the range
- Wireless smartphone charging option
- Real time charging information using EASY CONNECT app
- New regenerative braking B Mode that allows single pedal driving
- Choice of 100kW and 80kW motor options
“New ZOE makes you want to go further. We’ve designed a new generation of ZOE: at the forefront of electric performance and more useable than ever. New ZOE highlights Groupe Renault’s commitment to 100%electric mobility for all.”
Gilles Normand, Director of the Electric Vehicle Division of Groupe Renault
Introduction
With increased power and range, a host of technological improvements and distinctive new looks, the new Renault ZOE is more desirable than ever.
The launch of the third generation of Renault's flagship vehicle in its 100% electric range is a major milestone in Renault’s commitment to large scale electric vehicle development. Seven years after the release of its best-selling predecessors, New ZOE has evolved in versatility, quality and technology to offer superior features while still remaining affordable.
On the outside, the New ZOE continues to deliver distinctive and fresh design, while the interior has been completely overhauled, with a fully redesigned instrument panel and dashboard for improved comfort.
Under the skin the New ZOE gets a powerful 52 kWh battery that delivers a range of up to 242 miles (WLTP*). There are also more recharging options, including the introduction of an optional direct current (DC) charger. And with the availability of a muscular 100 kW motor on GT Line models, the New ZOE offers even more driving pleasure.
Elsewhere, the New ZOE is equipped with many innovative features. The Renault EASY CONNECT services deliver increased connectivity, plus there are extra driving aids, a 10-inch TFT instrument cluster, the Renault EASY LINK multimedia system and a new B Mode, which has been perfected for urban driving. All have been designed to make everyday driving easier and more enjoyable.
And as a pioneer and leader in electric mobility in Europe, Renault has unparalleled knowledge of the needs and expectations of this booming market.
* WLTP autonomy (Worldwide Harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure, standardized cycle: 57% of urban journeys, 25% of suburban journeys, 18% of highway journeys), for the ZOE Play version. In the process of being approved.
“New ZOE has a unique advantage: it is the third generation of a vehicle already considered a standard-setter. We have used our experience in the electric mobility market to modernise all the services and technologies that were already held in high esteem by drivers.”
Eric Feunteun, Director of the Electric Vehicle Program
Exterior
From the boldness of its youth to the dynamism of its adulthood, New ZOE has reached a milestone in terms of design. The soft shapes of the previous generation now have more distinct characteristics, while the redesigned interior offers more space and comfort.
At the front of the New ZOE the redesigned contours of the sculpted bonnet converge into a large aligned diamond. The new shape of the bumper incorporates chrome inserts in the grill and around the fog lights, enhancing the lower section.
Set in the centre of the chrome trimmed grille is the large Renault diamond logo, which now features an eye-catching "holographic" design that gives a 3D effect to the flat surface. The badge also doubles as a charging port, which flips open to reveal both a type 2 AC plug and the connector for the new optional 50 kW fast charger.
All ZOE models now get full LED headlamps as standard, which feature chrome inserts and are framed by the trademark C-shaped daytime running lights. Not only do the new lamps give the ZOE a bolder look, they significantly improve vision, with 75 percent more light than equivalent halogen units.
There’s also a new, wider front bumper design that benefits from side vents designed to improve the flow of air around the front of the car and over the wheels. Also included are new LED fog lights that contribute to the overall improved lighting system.
At the rear of the ZOE are bolder and bigger new LED lamps that help to create a wider look and now include dynamic indicators that sweep from the centre outwards - the repeater indicator signals integrated in the door mirrors also use LED technology.
Other external changes include a completely revamped range of wheel designs, with three different diameters available - 15, 16 and 17-inches. Regardless of wheel size, all ZOE models get four-wheel disc braking.
Completing the comprehensive exterior changes are the addition of three new metallic paint finishes - Celadon Blue, Flame Red and Quartz White. This means there are now a total of nine colours to choose from.
Interior
Groupe Renault's designers have paid particular attention to the interior quality, finish, comfort and ergonomics. Soft touch plastics and new sustainable trim finishes help boost premium appeal and comfort, while new TFT screens and an upgraded infotainment system reinforce the ZOE’s status as a high technology leader.
Ahead of the driver in the New ZOE is the 10-inch TFT instrument cluster, which is standard across the range. This display contains the main driving information including an eco-meter that encourages eco-friendly driving habits. The driver can also customise the lighting and the layout of the different information on-screen, while the display’s horizon and varying perspective effects create a sense of depth for greater legibility. On versions equipped with sat-nav the instrument cluster also relays turn-by-turn instructions for safer, less distracting progress.
The dashboard has been completely redesigned to significantly improve the quality of its finishes. Novel additions include soft fabric inserts that matches that used in the seats, creating a warm and comfortable atmosphere, while LED interior lighting is standard across the range.
On Iconic models there is 100 percent recycled seat upholstery. Using the traditional process of carded yarn manufacturing, which creates a quality material "without melting" or chemical transformation, this fabric is made from safety belt scrap and plastic waste (PET) materials. This innovation is a first for the automotive industry, its sourcing and short-loop manufacture helping reducing CO² emissions by over 60 percent compared to more traditional materials.
The centre of the dashboard also houses the Renault EASY LINK multimedia system, which on certain models now benefits from a large 9.3-inch touchscreen. This system controls the main functions of the vehicle and can be enhanced with specific operations, such as the real time availability of charging stations. Smartphone connectivity is taken care of by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Between the driver and passenger is a revised centre console that’s home to a new electronic gear selector, plus the driving mode selector, the chrome switch for which is decorated with the “Z.E.” logo and enables the easy transition between the various driver settings, notably the new B Mode that boosts regenerative braking to encourages single pedal driving.
Standard across the range is a new electronic parking brake, which replaces the traditional handbrake to free twice as much storage in the centre console, such as a new wireless smartphone charging option and a pair of cupholders. In the rear, passengers have access to two USB sockets that can be used to charge devices such as mobile phones, tablets and portable games.
“Dynamic and precise, the design of New ZOE emphasises the vehicle’s performance and its high-tech equipment, all dedicated to the user experience.”
Agneta Dahlgren, Director of Electric Vehicle Design
Range and charging
The New ZOE benefits from the new 52 kWh Z.E. 50 battery, which takes the useable range up to 242 miles (WLTP), which is an increase of around 30 percent over the old 40 kWh pack. It now also offers fast direct current (DC) charging, in addition to the alternating current charging (AC) options already available at home or on the street.
Despite the increase in range and capacity, the battery has not increased in size physically, meaning no loss of interior space and practicality. Another benefit of Z.E. 50 is its ability to deliver more performance from the new R135 motor.
At its launch in late 2012, the first ZOE with its 22 kWh battery offered around 93 miles of real range, a range that already far exceeded the daily distance traveled by the average European driver. In 2016, Renault launched the second generation of ZOE with its 41kWh Z.E. 40 battery that doubled the real world range to 186 miles.
For the New ZOE, engineers focused on the architecture of the lithium-ion battery and the different aspects of its design, achieving an impressive 52 kWh within the same physical cell size. This translates to a 30% increase in range, to 242 miles WLTP *.
Charging the battery is also made more straightforward by the Renault EASY CONNECT smart services, which allow quick and easy location of charging points, plus the addition of the simplified optional Combo charging plug.
Located behind the Renault diamond logo charging hatch, the new Combo plug (CCS) is slightly larger than the previous plug and consists of both a European standard socket and a two-pin connector for DC charging. The central location of the socket makes charging even easier, especially on public charging stations which have their own cable.
Thanks to this Combo plug, the New ZOE is able to charge quickly with a direct current (DC) up to 50 kW, simply by inserting the charging cable attached to the terminal into the two-pin connector that’s sited below the type-2 socket.
The standard type-2 cable provided with the car and the Caméléon charger are used for everyday AC charging use, such as at home with a Wallbox, at work, in the car park or on public roads using anything up to a 22kW supply.
When using a 7kW Wallbox the New ZOE can charge from 0 to 100 percent in 9 hours and 25 minutes. This ensures that a complete recharge can comfortably be achieved overnight. Around 190 miles of range can be achieved in just 8 hours*. Users charging their vehicle at home can also benefit from the programming options, adjusting their recharge to correspond with tariff fluctuations from their electricity supplier.
Plugging the ZOE into a public 22kW roadside charger can deliver a useful 78 miles of range in only one hour*.
However, the fastest recharge times are achieved with the new 50kW DC charging option, which is perfect for longer trips. Replenishing the battery in this way can add around 90 miles of range in as little as half an hour
* The duration and distances mentioned here are calculated from results obtained by New ZOE during the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure, standardized cycle: 57% of urban journeys, 25% of suburban journeys, 18% of journeys on the highway), which aims to represent the actual conditions of the vehicles’ use. However, they cannot foresee the type of journey after recharging. The recharging time and the recovered range also depend on the temperature, battery wear, power delivered by the terminal, driving style and level of charge.
Powertrains
With the addition of a powerful new motor option and the inclusion of a new B mode urban driving setting, the New ZOE is even more at home on both the open road and in city.
The new R135 100 kW engine delivers the equivalent of 135 PS and improved torque for faster acceleration and greater responsiveness. Engineers have used the increased-capacity battery of New ZOE (Z.E.50) to get the most out of the Renault developed motor, which packs a healthy 245 Nm from zero rpm and drives through a single speed gearbox, helping the ZOE sprint from 0 to 62mph in less than 10 seconds and onto a top speed of 87mph. As an indication of its real world pace the 100kW model can accelerate from 50 to 75 mph in just 7.1 seconds, which is 2.2 seconds quicker than than the 80kW 110 PS R110 engine, which is carried over unchanged.
Both motors now come equipped with the new “B mode” driving function, which intensifies the regenerative braking effect to essentially allow the driver one pedal operation of the car. When B mode is activated, the car decelerates significantly faster as soon as the driver releases the accelerator pedal. B mode makes driving easier, especially in the city or in slow moving traffic.
On a technical level, its integration is accompanied by a new braking system that offers improved feel through the pedal. As for D mode, it remains particularly useful when the car is moving at a constant speed, on the open road or motorway for example.
The driver can switch on demand between B and D modes with a simple push on the new e-shifter. This replaces the old car’s mechanical lever with an electronic switch. Simple pressure on the knob is enough to send instructions to the motor, while selected driving mode is clearly displayed on the center console and on the 10-inch driver’s display. As with the automatic parking brake, New ZOE therefore extends the 100 percent electric experience through all its driver-friendly functions.
“Driving a ZOE has always been enjoyable… and this pleasure is now tenfold with New ZOE! A new motor and new equipment give it even more high-performing qualities.”
Elisabeth Delval, Assistant Director, Renault ZOE Programme
Safety and Technology
Renault has engineered the New ZOE with a brand-new electrical infrastructure. More modern, it now allows for the integration of all the sensors and automated functions that are essential for the new driver assistance systems (ADAS). They are designed to better inform the driver, simplify driving and enhance safety.
There are a whole suite of safety systems on the ZOE, including the Active Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) and Auto High/Low beam headlamps (AHL).
Further driving assistance features include the hands-free Easy Park Assist (EPA), front and rear parking sensors, Auto-Hill hold and an automatic parking brake.
The ZOE’s infotainment system features the Renault EASY CONNECT set-up, which combines with the new Renault EASY LINK multimedia system and the MY Renault app to offer drivers a range of applications and services designed to accompany them throughout their daily activities.
On a smartphone, the MY Renault application includes a variety of useful services to manage a car remotely, such as a remote check on the battery range and charging status. You can also plan charging during off-peak hours, start or schedule heating or air conditioning to reach the ideal temperature of 21°C for the moment of departure without affecting the range.
Another handy feature is the ability to pre-plan your journey with MY Renault. After entering your destination the app plots your route, including the most suitable charging points and, accounting for the recharge stops, the overall travel time.
On board, Renault EASY LINK's connected navigation beams the route to the multimedia screen and includes the location and availability of the nearest charging stations. The map is also enriched with real-time traffic information provided by TomTom, plus new features such as Google Search. The EASY LINK navigation map database is regularly updated, automatically and transparently for the user, via the “Map Auto-Update” function.
Furthermore, the navigation and map can be displayed on the 10-inch instrument cluster ahead of the driver, which also houses the trip computer that provides information on regenerative braking performance and driving efficiency, helping to make the most of the battery’s range. The user can also choose the layout of the display, so that it shows their preferred information.
“Our vision of Easy Electric Life is to simplify the driver's lifestyle. Renault EASY CONNECT provides the right information and features in the right place, at the right time, in a comfortable way and without superfluity.”
Elisabeth Delval, Assistant Director, Renault ZOE Programme
ZOE in numbers
Nearly a decade has passed since the first reveal of the ZOE Z.E concept at the end of 2009 and the launch of New ZOE. In this time, Renault has established itself as a pioneer and leader in electric mobility, driven on by the success of its flagship model.
A few numbers…
Nearly 150,000 registrations by the end of May 2019, ZOE sales have been growing steadily since its launch. Its cumulative sales make it the most common electric vehicle on European roads.
18.2% market share in Europe in 2018. With nearly 40,000 new registrations, ZOE accounts for nearly one in five electric cars sold on the continent. It is number one in sales in Germany, Spain, and France, where it achieved a 54.9% market share over the year.
More than 60 awards across Europe. Regularly praised in the media, since 2014 ZOE has retained the title of “best electric car for under £30,000” awarded by What Car? ZOE’s successive developments have enabled it to achieve exceptional longevity.
More than 4 billion kilometers travelled. The flagship vehicle of Renault’s 100% electric range has achieved the equivalent of over 10,400 Earth-to-Moon journeys without emitting a single gram of CO2 during use.
One billion euros. In June 2018, Groupe Renault announced an investment plan to make France a center of excellence for electric vehicles within the Alliance. By 2022, it plans to double ZOE's production capacity at the Renault plant in Flins, near Paris.
More than 40,000 people. This is the number of Groupe Renault employees involved in ZOE on a daily basis, from the sales network to engineering and assembly lines.
… and some dates
27th September 2012. Renault creates a buzz at the Paris Motor Show with the official ZOE launch. Revealed a few months prior in Geneva, ZOE unveils its fluid lines and inviting interior for the first time.
11th December 2014. A new electric motor is unveiled, entirely designed and manufactured by Renault in France. Launched in the spring of 2015, it improves energy efficiency and allows ZOE drivers to enjoy 30 kilometers of additional range with the same level of performance.
30th November 2016. The second generation of ZOE benefits from twice the range thanks to the introduction of the Z.E. 40 battery. It is accompanied with new innovative connected services specifically designed to simplify route planning and recharging.
19th February 2018. The introduction of the R110 motor allows ZOE to gain two seconds when accelerating from 80 to 120 Km/h. Not only is this enjoyable for the driver, but also reassuring when joining a motorway or overtaking.
21st March 2019. Renault launches the first prototypes of ZOE equipped with reversible charging in the Netherlands. This full-scale experiment marks the advent of two-way charge solutions that will further enhance the role of the electric car in the energy transition movement.
17th June 2019. Renault reveals the third generation of ZOE with even more versatility, driving pleasure and comfort.
ENDS
About Groupe Renault
Groupe Renault has been making cars since 1898. Today it is an international multi-brand group, selling close to 3.76 million vehicles in 134 countries in 2017, with 36 manufacturing sites, 12,700 points of sales and employing more than 180,000 people. To meet the major technological challenges of the future and continue its strategy of profitable growth, the group is harnessing its international growth and the complementary fit of its five brands, Renault, Dacia, Renault Samsung Motors, Alpine and Lada, together with electric vehicles and the unique alliance with Nissan and Mitsubishi. With a new team in Formula 1, Renault sees motorsport as a vector of innovation and brand awareness.
To read the latest information about Renault’s leadership in electromobility visit www.easyelectriclife.groupe.renault.com/en
In the UK, Groupe Renault UK has nearly 160 dealers selling the range of Renault cars, LCVs and Dacia. Groupe Renault UK sales totalled 103,607 vehicles in 2018.
A pioneer and leader of the electric vehicle in Europe, the Group offers the most complete range on the market with ZOE, Twizy, Kangoo Z.E. and Master Z.E., but also the sedan RSM SM3 Z.E. sold in Korea and the new Renault City K-ZE for the Chinese market.
To meet the major technological challenges of the future and pursue its strategy of profitable growth, Groupe Renault has formulated an ambitious strategic plan based on its international development as well as its innovations in electric mobility solutions that are easy-to-use and accessible to the greatest number of users.
In 2022, Groupe Renault's range will include 8 electric vehicles and 12 electrified models. The 100% electric vehicles will cover the main divisions of its offer and represent 20% of the range.