Renault switches on UK Kangoo ZE supply

Promotional video courtesy of Renault

Renault is the first volume manufacturer to introduce a range of line-built, zero emission vans and its 20 Z.E. Expert UK dealers (Pro+) will have access to stocks of right-hand drive Kangoo Z.E.s from November. What makes this such big news is the financial package on offer; the vehicle price does not include the cost of the 22kWh lithium-ion battery pack which is hired separately for a fixed monthly figure, dependent on contract length and annual mileage.

This means that a Kangoo Z.E. Van can be acquired for a basic price (excl VAT) of £16,990 with the battery pack costing £60/month on a three-year contract and racking up 6,000 miles/year. Increase the mileage to 15,000 and the hire charge rises to £87/month. It includes comprehensive breakdown cover, as well as a tow to the nearest charging point (within 50 miles) if the batteries become drained.

The 44kW (equivalent to 60hp) electric motor develops 226Nm of maximum torque instantly and a claimed 106 mile Combined Cycle range — New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) — is possible from a full charge which takes between six to eight hours via a dedicated 3kW Wall-Box. Re-charging time increases if plugged into a standard 2kW domestic socket.

One very neat touch is the selectable Eco setting which reduces the torque available and lowers the 81mph top speed (shouldn’t that be 70mph anyway for the UK?), enabling range maximisation. Battery recharging during deceleration and braking is a standard feature.

Three Kangoo Z.E. variants are on offer; Van, long-wheelbase Maxi Van (£17,990, excl VAT) and a five-seater crew cab Maxi (£18,340 unglazed, £18,690 glazed). Siting the battery pack under the load floor retains the load capacity of the diesel equivalent (3.0 – 4.6m³) and gross payload is 650kg across the board.

All Z.E.s come with Renault’s standard LCV three-year/100,000 mile vehicle warranty, with the electric drivetrain covered for five years or 100,000 miles. In addition Renault is offering a 'programmed maintenance' service schedule, allowing customers to choose the best formula (years/mileage) to suit their usage, in line with the duration of their battery lease contract.

We’ve just returned from the European press launch of the Kangoo Z.E. and will be publishing a full video report shortly.