Renault has taken the lead in electric technology compared to French competitors. Thus, while the Peugeot/Citroën duo entrusted Mitsubishi in 2009 with the production under license of its electric city car i-MiEV (which became the Citroën C-Zero and Peugeot iOn), Renault developed its own technology in 2012 with Zoé. Since then, a sales star in Europe, the little electric star has participated in the success and democratization of electricity in Europe. If success Fluence ZE and Kangoo ZE (2011) created less noise, they also participated in the manufacturer’s efforts in the race for electricity. Since then, the Twingo, Twizy and Master have been electrified. In addition, the brand launched a new 100% electric model: Mégane E-Tech.

Future electric attack

Renault already said it its future will be 100% electric. The manufacturer intends to offer only one electric range in 2030. This goal (also quite difficult) drives him to develop new models that work on electricity. He is already working on an upcoming launch R4with R5as well as the new electric Scénic. Other models will appear with the aim of offering an electric alternative to all segments that currently use thermal energy. Mégane E-Tech is based on a platform specially developed for electric architecture. It is also currently equipped with the Nissan Ariya SUV. Eventually, the Alliance will make this platform its own tip for multiplying models, cases and variants.

Hand in hand with Valeo for 800 V batteries

To go even further, Renault is currently working on 800V battery technology. Until now, the manufacturer, like most ordinary manufacturers, used 400 V technology. Going from 400 to 800 V doubles the battery output. A configuration that allows as much to speed up the charging speed on the terminals that increase the power of the electric motor. To get the equivalent power of 400V would require (and this is what Tesla is currently doing) double the size of the cables to support more intensity. This meets many space limitations in an electric vehicle.

Audi, Porsche, hyundai and Kia already use such a battery architecture. It is currently limited rather a premium make and model. Renault has partnered with Valeo to bring an 800V battery to the market in 2027. It should be equipped C and D segment models manufacturer Just in time to complete the transition to all-electricity in 2030!