2011 Renault Fluence Z.E.

With taut and fluid lines, the Renault Fluence Z.E. will be manufactured at the OYAK-Renault factory in Bursa, Turkey.

The Fluence Z.E. is an electric vehicle powered by an electric motor with rotor coil that delivers a total of 93 HP 11,000rpm and 226 Nm. The lithium-ion batteries can be recharged with in 6 to 8 hours and provide the car with a range of 160 km.

Renault has unveiled the finalized designs of Fluence Z.E. and Kangoo Express Z.E., while customers wishing to be among the first to run on electrical power can pre-reserve their vehicle at www.renault-ze.com.

The simple act of registration allows prospective buyers to choose their electric vehicle and benefit from priority availability as soon as it comes onto the market.

Aware of the impact that motor vehicles can have on the environment over their complete life cycle, Renault has been working actively for many years to achieve ongoing improvements regarding the ecological footprint of a vehicle at every phase of its life (production, on-road use, recycling). As demonstrated by its Renault eco programme in favour of the environment, Renault believes it is essential to ensure that the most effective technologies are available to as many motorists as possible at an affordable price.

Electric vehicles represent a clean-break solution aimed at making CO2 emissions-free mobility in use, except wear parts, available to all.In its bid to become the number one low CO2 European carmaker, Renault is working on two main fronts: the introduction of new technologies for internal combustion engines and transmissions, and an unprecedented commitment to all-electric vehicles.Renault estimates that electric vehicles will account for 10 per cent of the world market by 2020. The Alliance is investing �4 billion in its zero emissions programme and a 2,000-strong team (1,000 at Renault and 1,000 at Nissan) is already working on electric vehicles.

RENAULT FLUENCE Z.E.

Following the unveiling of Fluence Z.E. Concept at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, Renault has taken the wraps off the finalized design of Fluence Z.E. which is due to go on sale in Europe and Israel from 2011. As the C segment's first production saloon electric vehicle, Renault Fluence Z.E. targets motorists and fleet operators who are looking for a status-enhancing vehicle that is both economical to run and respectful of the environment.Renault Fluence Z.E. will be manufactured at the OYAK-Renault factory in Bursa, Turkey, on the same production line as the internal combustion engine-powered versions of Fluence. Production is due to begin in the first half of 2011.

Immediately identifiable

As the compact segment's first three-box electric vehicle, it was imperative that Renault Fluence Z.E. should be recognizable at first glance. To distinguish it from the internal combustion engined-version, it comes with a package of specific features and details that unmistakably associate it with Renault's electric vehicle range.The electric version of Fluence stands at a length of 4.75 meters, which is 13 centimeters longer than its internal combustion-engined cousin in order to accommodate the battery behind the rear seats. At the same time, the lines of its flanks have been revised in order to maintain the same overall balance as the original version.At the front, the Renault logo, foglamp surrounds, headlamp brows and lower part of the headlamp mask are all picked out in a blue-hued colour. The upper air intake is traversed by a gloss black strip incorporating a blue chrome trim that links two similarly-finished circles situated either side of the grille. Finally, the lower air-intake incorporates a body-colour strip that runs between the two foglamps.Renault Fluence Z.E.'s lines are taut and fluid, while the rear quarter panels have been harmoniously extended in order to absorb the additional length resulting from the longer rear overhang. This design encases the rear screen in a way that recalls the rear-end styling of prestigious sports coup�s, while a gloss black trim at the bottom of the screen emphasizes the rear's harmonious proportions. The design of the rear lights, which extend forward either side of the car, also contributes to the overall balance of Renault Fluence Z.E.'s lines. The clusters themselves feature a pattern made up of backlit blue-hued lozenges.Gloss black exterior mirror housings, body-colour painted side protective mouldings and the battery charge flaps on both wings add the finishing touch to Renault Fluence Z.E.'s uniquely expressive looks, as do the boot lid's blue-hued panel and the Fluence Z.E. badge. Last but not least, the rear bumper incorporates a black diffuser which is engineered to reduce aerodynamic drag, while the wheels have been specially designed to minimize turbulence. Several body colours are available, including Energy Blue, a new colour that is specific to Renault's electric vehicle range.

A spacious, status-enhancing vehicle

Renault Fluence Z.E. is conclusive proof that electric vehicles do not have to be small, narrow and uncomfortable city cars with a limited touring ability.The new model is the same width as the internal combustion engined-version of Fluence, and the cabin space it delivers is worthy of that of a saloon car from the next segment up, including best-in-class front and rear elbow room.Renault Fluence Z.E.'s interior is based on the same layout as the internal combustion-engined version. Only the rev-counter has been replaced by a bespoke instrument which displays data concerning remaining range and battery charge. The decorative trim of the uncluttered dashboard is picked out in a colour that is exclusive to the model, while the centre console includes the displays "forward", "reverse", "neutral" and "parking" which are the different positions for the transmission control lever. Renault Fluence Z.E. also packs a raft of useful technologies, including a built-in smart navigation system, Bluetooth telephony and automatic dual-zone climate control, plus automatic headlamp and windscreenwiper activation.Renault Fluence Z.E. targets families looking for a spacious, comfortable vehicle, and total boot space amounts to 300dm3 (VDA/ISO). The electric version of Renault Fluence is likely to figure on the shopping list of many fleet operators thanks to its low running costs.

Technology

Renault Fluence Z.E. is an entirely electric vehicle.

� Motor

Fluence Z.E. is powered by a synchronous electric motor with rotor coil. Peak power is 70kW at 11,000rpm, while maximum torque is 226Nm. The weight of the motor � excluding peripherals � is 160kg. Acceleration performance is crisp and linear, with maximum torque available very early on.

� Battery

The capacity of Renault Fluence Z.E.'s lithium-ion battery is 22kW/h. The battery itself tips the scales at 250kg and is located behind the rear seats in order to free up a boot volume of 300dm3 (VDA/ISO). An energy recovery system enables the battery to be charged when the car decelerates.

� Battery charging methods

It will be possible to charge the battery of Renault Fluence Z.E. in one of three ways:

- Via a household mains supply (10A or 16A, 220V) which will fully charge the battery in between six and eight hours. This method is particularly suited to vehicles which are charged during the workday or at night, since it permits owners to benefit from the off-peak rates available in certain countries.

- At fast charge stations using a 32A 400V supply which enables the battery to be charged in approximately 30 minutes (available in 2012 or 2013, depending on model).

- The QuickDrop battery switch system will enable Renault Fluence Z.E.'s battery to be swapped in approximately three minutes at bespoke battery exchange stations.

� Chassis

In order to adapt the ride to Renault Fluence Z.E.'s specific characteristics (dimensions, weight distribution), the suspension has revised settings compared with the layout seen on internal combustionengined versions of Fluence. The front suspension setting is softer, since electric motors are lighter than all the internal combustion engines available for Fluence. Meanwhile, the rear suspension has been revised to cope with the heavier weight due to the presence of the battery.

� Tyres

Renault Fluence Z.E. runs on low rolling resistance tyres. The Goodyear-developed EfficientGrip enables lower energy consumption thanks to extensive work on tyre casings and sidewalls. The tread is identical to that of a conventional tyre in order to ensure high-performance road holding and braking.

� Dialled-in safety

The ABS and ESC electronic driving aids have been recalibrated. On the passive safety front, Renault Fluence Z.E.'s body structure has been strengthened in order to deliver the same high standard of safety performance as the shorter and consequently lighter internal combustion-engined version.

� Production

Renault Fluence Z.E. will be manufactured at the OYAK-Renault factory in Bursa, Turkey, on the same production line as the internal combustion-engined versions of Fluence. Production will begin in the first half of 2011. This solution will enable Renault to minimize capital outlay and get production under way rapidly, while at the same time guaranteeing a very high standard of quality. The production of Renault Fluence Z.E. at Bursa will also permit Renault to benefit from plant's outstanding performance in terms of quality, cost and delivery times, as well as from its local network of suppliers. This in turn means that the Group will be able to market this zero-emission* saloon car at prices that are as attractive as those of the internal combustion-engined versions of the model.