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New Renault ZOE is Ireland’s Most-Affordable Electric Car.

New Renault ZOE – Ireland’s most affordable electric car.

 With increased power and range, a host of technological improvements and distinctive new looks, the new Renault ZOE is more desirable than ever -especially with prices starting at just €26,990 (after VRT reliefs and SEAI grant), making it Ireland’s most affordable electric car. The launch of the third generation of Renault’s flagship vehicle (in its 100 per cent electric range) is a major milestone in Renault’s commitment to large-scale electric vehicle development. Seven years after the release of the original ZOE, the new ZOE has evolved in versatility, quality and technology to offer superior features, while remaining affordable.

Exterior;

From the boldness of its youth to the dynamism of its adulthood, the new Renault ZOE has reached a milestone in terms of design. The soft shapes of the previous generation now have more distinct characteristics. 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 50kW CCS fast charger (standard on R135 versions and optional on Iconic R110). 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 per cent 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, while all ZOE models get four-wheel disc braking. Completing the comprehensive exterior changes are 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 dashboard has been completely redesigned to significantly improve the quality of its finishes, while LED interior lighting is standard across the range. On Iconic models there is 100 per cent 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 per cent compared to more traditional materials.  

Range and charging;

Under the skin the new ZOE gets a large-capacity 52 kWh Z.E. 50 battery that delivers a range of up to 395 km (WLTP) – the best driving range in its segment and an increase of 32 per cent over the previous 41 kWh pack. Despite the increase in range and capacity, the battery has not increased in size physically, meaning no loss of interior space. The ZOE 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. Charging the battery is also made more straightforward by the Renault EASY CONNECT smart services, which allow quick and easy location of charging points. Located behind the Renault diamond logo charging hatch, the new Combo (CCS) plug 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. Replenishing the battery in this way can add around 145 km of range in as little as half an hour. The standard type-2 cable provided with the car and the Chameleon Charger™ are used for everyday AC charging use, such as at home with a wallbox, at work, in a car park or on public roads using anything up to a 22kW supply whereas competitors only offer 7-11kW charging. Plugging the ZOE into the public 22kW roadside charger, which are so common around Ireland, can deliver a useful 125 km of range in only one hour.

Home charging;

Private buyers can avail of a €600 SEAI grant to assist with the purchase and installation of a home charging unit. A 7kW unit allows the New ZOE to be charged from 0 to 100 per cent in 9 hours and 25 minutes. This ensures that a complete recharge can comfortably be achieved overnight. Around 300km 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. Charging the ZOE at home on a night rate tariff would typically cost about €5.

Trim Levels & Pricing;

The new Renault ZOE is available in three generously-equipped trim levels – Play, Iconic, and range-topping GT Line – and are priced from €26,990, €28,990 and €31,990 respectively (after VRT reliefs and SEAI grant). I look forward to bring you a full review of the new Renault ZOE in the coming months.

Visit www.renault.ie for further information. 

 

 

 

 

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