2020 Renault Zoe UK

The Renault ZOE is now better than ever, with the third-generation modeloffering increased power and range, a host of technological improvements and more sophisticated character throughout.On the exterior, New ZOE continues to deliver distinctive design, with a fresh interpretation of the chic styling themes established by the previous model. Inside, the completely redesigned interior has a more modern, and elegant environment, with the addition of more premium materials and the latest connectivity and features. Under the skin, New ZOE has a powerful 52kWh battery which delivers a range of up to 245 miles (WLTP). There are also more charging options, including the introduction of an optional direct current (DC) charger. New ZOE is even more rewarding to drive, too, with a new R135 (100 kW) motor option which makes it the quickest most responsive ZOE yet. Innovative new features enhance the driving and ownership experience, including increased connectivity, Renault’s state-of-the-art EasyLink infotainment system and a configurable 10-inch TFT driver display. A new B Mode, increases regenerative braking and allows one-pedal operation to make urban driving easier, while a range of advanced driving aids make journeys safer and more enjoyable.

EXTERIOR

Fresh yet distinctive, New ZOE’s redesigned exterior clearly identifies it as the next generation of Renault’s pioneering electric car, while bringing a new level of dynamism and maturity. At the front, the heavily sculpted bonnet reinforces New ZOE’s confident character and strong identity. Beneath this is a bigger, bolder Renault diamond logo featuring an innovative ‘holographic’ design which gives a 3D effect to the flat surface. The badge also doubles as a charging port, flipping open to reveal both a Type 2 AC (2-22kW) plug and, where fitted, the connector for the new 50kW DC (CCS) fast charger. Full LED headlights featuring chrome inserts and Renault’s signature C-shaped daytime running lights are standard across the range. As well as giving New ZOE a more contemporary look they significantly improve vision, delivering 75 per cent more light than equivalent halogen units. Chrome trim around the front grille and fog lights highlights New ZOE’s refined look, while the larger lower grille emphasises the car’s width. Either side of this are large vents similar to those of All-New Clio. These distinctive design elements are also functional features which channel air flow around the bumper and front wheels at speed to improve aerodynamic performance and maximise efficiency. Sitting neatly within these vents are new LED fog lights that form part of the upgraded lighting system, and which are standard across the range. At the rear, New ZOE features a bigger, bolder interpretation of the previous model’s characteristic diamond-shaped LED tail lamps. These now include dynamic indicators which sweep outwards from the centre of the car, for improved visibility and an unmistakable light signature. Viewed in profile, New ZOE retains its predecessor’s unique shape but adds extra dynamism in the form of crisp new character lines and LED indicator repeaters in the door mirrors. New wheel designs emphasise New ZOE’s progressive personality, with 15-, 16- and 17-inch options available, depending on trim. The addition of three new metallic paint finishes – Celadon Blue, Flame Red and Quartz White – means there are now a total of nine vibrant, contemporary colours to choose from.

INTERIOR

New ZOE’s completely redesigned interior reinforces its status as a class leader for innovation and style. More refined and more technologically advanced than ever, it features carefully selected materials, an updated infotainment system and improved ergonomics that make it an even more appealing and comfortable environment. The new dashboard design incorporates a strong horizontal line that accentuates the cabin’s width. Upgraded, soft-touch materials and metallic inserts boost the ambience, while standard LED interior lighting gives New ZOE’s interior a warmer, more premium feel. At the heart of the dashboard is Renault’s latest EasyLink touchscreen multimedia system, which blends smart technology with ease of use. A 7-inch version is standard for Play and Iconic models, while a 9.3-inch portrait-format version is standard for GT Line models and optional for Iconic trim. Standard for all models is a new 10-inch TFT instrument cluster displays the main driving information, including an eco-meter to encourage eco-friendly driving habits and maximises range. The display provides exceptional clarity  and enhances the driving experience by enabling the driver to personalise it to suit their needs or preferences. As well as selecting from different layout and lighting options, they can also choose to have sat-nav instructions displayed directly in front of them, for safer, less distracted driving. The new centre console highlights New ZOE’s premium, high-tech status. The most prominent feature is a redesigned gear selector that features a metallic surround and Renault’s distinctive Z.E logo. It gives a more luxurious appearance and puts the driver firmly in control, allowing them to switch easily between settings, including the new B mode that boosts regenerative braking and encourages simple one-pedal driving. All models now come with an electronic parking brake, replacing the traditionalstyle handbrake. This has doubled storage space on the centre console which, as standard on Iconic and GT Line models, now contains new wireless charging for topping up compatible devices. In the rear, passengers have access to two USB sockets that can be used to charge smartphones, tablets and portable games consoles. The optional Bose sound system available for GT Line models is the result of a long-running partnership between Renault and the premium audio brand. Specially tailored to the acoustics of New ZOE’s cabin, this innovative audio system delivers a clear, powerful listening experience in every seat. New ZOE’s focus on sustainable innovation is exemplified by the introduction of a new type of seat upholstery made using 100 per cent recycled plastics. Used for all upholstery in Iconic models and as part of a mix of synthetic leather and fabric upholstery for GT Line trim, this new fabric is made from safety belt scrap and plastic waste (PET) materials. Using the traditional process of carded yarn manufacturing, it creates a quality material without melting or chemical transformation. It is a first for the automotive industry, with its sourcing and short-loop manufacture helping to reduce CO 2 emissions by over 60 per cent compared with more traditional materials. Heated front seats and a heated leather steering wheel are available for Iconic and GT Line models. As well as providing a touch of luxury, these features are an energy-efficient way of keeping those on board warm in cold conditions, so help to provide maximum driving range.

POWERTRAINS AND DRIVING

Thanks to Renault’s leadership in electric powertrain development, New ZOE is even more enjoyable to drive than its predecessors, offering responsive performance both in the city and on the open road. In addition to the existing 80kW R110 electric motor (which is carried over unchanged), a new 100kW R135 motor joins the range to offer even more spirited pace.  When developing New ZOE, Renault engineers utilised the increased capacity of the new Z.E. 50 battery to get the most out of its electric powertrain. In the R135, torque is now a powerful 245Nm, available from zero rpm. The result is strong acceleration from standstill, with a 0 to 60mph time of just 9.5 seconds. Real-world responsiveness is even more impressive, with 50 to 75mph achieved in just 7.1 seconds. The R110 version is capable of 0-60mph in 11.4 seconds and offers only slightly less torque, with a healthy 225Nm. Both motors come with a new B mode function which maximise the regenerative braking effect to allow convenient ‘one-pedal’ driving in many situations. When this mode is activated, New ZOE decelerates rapidly as soon as the driver releases the accelerator pedal. It means that in urban or slow-moving traffic the driver rarely needs to use the brake pedal at all, making driving easier and more relaxing. Standard D mode provides more traditional driving characteristics, while in both modes a new braking system offers improved feel through the pedal. New ZOE has a new e-shifter to allow the driver to switch between B and D modes using only gentle pressure on the selector. The chosen mode is clearly displayed on the centre console, and in the 10-inch driver display. This set-up replaces the previous ZOE’s mechanical lever with an electronic switch, extending the 100 per cent electric experience to all of the main driver functions .

Another benefit of the new electric and electronic architecture used by New ZOE is that it enables the introduction of the latest driver assistanc and safety features. Cruise control with a speed limiter function is also standard across the range, while Iconic and GT Line models have Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist, which can help to steer the car back on track if it detects that it is starting to stray from its lane unintentionally. In addition, they also include Traffic Sign Recognition and Automatic High Low Beam headlights, while GT Line trim also includes Blind Spot Warning technology. Front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera are standard for GT Line models and optional with Iconic trim. Hands-free parking is available for GT Line models, in the shape of optional Easy Park Assist. This feature makes getting in or out of a parking slot simple – the system measures the available space and then automatically steers into or out of it, so the driver needs only to operate the pedals and gearbox to manoeuvre perfectly every time. For optimum safety in urban areas, New ZOE comes with Renault’s Z.E. Voice technology. This emits an external noise below 20mph, to make pedestrians and cyclists aware of New ZOE’s presence. The driver can switch between three available sounds, or turn the system off if required

RANGE AND CHARGING

Renault’s commitment to continually improving battery technology keeps New ZOE one step ahead in the EV revolution, with a new 52 kWh Z.E. 50 battery that gives a useable range of up to 245 miles (WLTP) – an increase of around 30 per cent over the old 41 kWh pack. It now also offers rapid direct current (DC) charging, in addition to the alternating current charging (AC)
options already available. And despite the increase in range and capacity, the battery itself has not increased in size, so there’s no impact on interior space or practicality. In addition, the new Z.E. 50 battery helps to deliver significantly stronger performance, when twinned with the new R135 electric motor. The new battery is an example of the way New ZOE continues to make EV ownership a more accessible and viable option for consumers. At its launch in late 2012, the first ZOE featured a 22kWh battery capable of around 93 miles of real-world range – enough to satisfy the daily needs of the average European driver. The second-generation model, launched in 2016, introduced a 41kWh Z.E. 40 battery which doubled the real-world range to 186 miles. Now, the Z.E. 50 battery in New ZOE offers a range that far exceeds the average daily mileage of most drivers, as well as faster, more versatile charging options. Charging the New ZOE is as easy as ever. Cleverly hidden behind the Renault diamond logo at the front of the car, the new Combo plug (CCS) is slightly larger than the previous example and consists of both a European standard socket and a two-pin connector for DC charging. The central location of the socket makes charging easier, especially at public charging stations that have their own cable. With this plug, New ZOE is able to charge quickly using a direct current (DC) of up to 50kW, simply by inserting the terminal’s charging cable into the two-pin connector below the type-2 socket. The standard type-2 cable supplied with the car is used for everyday AC charging at home or work, in a car park, or at a public charger. Wherever New ZOE is charged, Renault’s patented on-board Chameleon charger adapts to the source used, ensuring that the car is drawing the maximum amount of power as safely and quickly as possible. Thanks to this Renault-specific feature, New Zoe can use a charging point with up to a 22kW supply and accept the unit’s maximum power rate, whereas some electric cars are limited to 11kW, even if the charger has a higher-rated output. Using a public 22kW charger, New ZOE’s Z.E. 50 battery can be charged from zero to 100 per cent in just three hours. For a quick top-up, a one-hour charge gives a range of 78 miles. The fastest recharge times are achieved with the new 50kW DC charging option, which charges the battery from 0 to 80 per cent capacity in just one hour and ten minutes. A 30-minute charge is all that is needed to provide a 90-mile boost in range, allowing drivers on longerjourneys to significantly extend their range while they take a short break. Renault’s faith in its EV technology is backed up by an eight year/100,000- mile warranty (whichever comes sooner) for the Z.E. 50 battery. This is in addition to the five-year/100,000-mile warranty that covers the rest of the car. Different programming options allow users to plan their charging to coincide with cheaper tariffs from their electricity supplier, while free access to a dedicated web portal called Chargevision allows them to monitor exactly how much electricity they have used.

INFOTAIMENT AND CONNECTIVITY

New ZOE uses smart connectivity, clever technical solutions and a range of useful services to enrich the driving and ownership experience. Innovations include Renault’s latest EasyLink multimedia system, bespoke MY Renault app functions and a range of EV-specific features that help owners get more out of their car.  Everything about New ZOE is designed to make life easier. A standard handsfree key card means the doors unlock as you approach the car and, once inside, intelligent technology simplifies every interaction. The EasyLink multimedia system is based around a responsive, central touchscreen which is within easy reach of both driver and front seat passenger. The smartphone-inspired interface has an intuitive feel, while crisp graphics ensure simple operation on the move. There’s also convenient pinch and swipe functionality, a voice control option and the ability for users to create shortcuts that allow them to access their favourite features quickly. Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ integration comes as standard. Every New ZOE benefits from always-on 4G connectivity, with a data pack included for the first three years of ownership. This technology means Iconic and GT Line models, which have a navigation system as standard, benefit from connected TomTom services including real-time updates on traffic delays and weather conditions. The system allows users to search for addresses using Google Places, while it also supports automatic updates from partners such as Google, TomTom and Coyote. The navigation features precise 3D mapping for clearer route-finding, while the map can also be displayed on the 10-inch TFT display, putting key information directly ahead of the driver.

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