Renault’s will to drive down EV prices starts with Zoe

For just the past five years, the pretty and compact Zoe has provided a modest entry-level to EV mobility, to which Iain Robertson believes more carmakers should be directing their attentions, rather than profiteering from market circumstances.

Renault has introduced a new version at the top of the Zoe range. The new S Edition replaces the previous Signature Nav version and brings an array of equipment at only a small premium over the alternative Dynamique Nav specification. If you are interested, ordering is open now and deliveries of the Zoe S Edition commence in April.



Always fun to drive, the five-door, five-seat Renault EV is both practical and affordable. The new trim level aligns the Zoe with the rest of the simplified range of Renault models and allows it to offer an even better value option to customers. Additional equipment includes the BOSE stereo, which incorporates DAB radio and excellent sound reproduction. Manoeuvring is easier than ever thanks to a rear parking camera.


All seats are finished in a leather and textile covering and comfort is enhanced with lumbar adjustment on the driver’s seat. Customer choice extends to either 16.0-inch ‘Black Shadow’ alloy wheels or, at no additional cost, they can be upgraded to assertive looking 17.0-inch ‘Black Optemic’ alloy wheels, to enhance the exterior of the Zoe S Edition.



These extra items are in addition to those already found on the well-equipped entry level Renault Zoe Dynamique Nav, which includes a hands-free keycard, rear parking sensors, automatic wipers and lights, climate control and a leather steering wheel and gear knob. Also featured are front and rear electric windows, and electric, heated and folding door mirrors. Voice-controlled sat-nav is also standard on all Renault Zoes, via an embedded tablet in the centre console that has a 7.0-inch touchscreen.


A variety of aspects ensure that Zoe operation is easy. Its Z.E. Connected Services take communication between smartphone and car to another level, allowing features like remote charging, monitoring of charge status and pre-conditioning. The latter means the customer can pre-set the temperature of the car prior to driving it...warm in winter and cool in summer.


List-priced (pre-discount) from £19,270, the Renault Zoe S Edition includes the £3,500 government Plug-in Car Grant. It is just £850 more than the Dynamique Nav version. Customers can opt to buy their Zoe and lease the battery, or buy it outright (referred to as Zoe i). Battery leasing begins from £59 per month.



A choice of two motors are available in Zoe: the Q90 Quick Charge motor allows for faster battery charging, from zero to 80 per cent in 65 minutes using a 43kWh charger; the R110 motor has an extra 19bhp and improved performance, especially between 50mph and 70mph. Both are mated to the Z.E. 40 battery and both have a WLTP-rated range of 186 miles. Finally, all retail customers buying a Zoe receive a free 7kW wall-box for their home that ensures the easiest possible domestic charging experience.

FCD Summary

The equivalent Nissan Leaf costs almost £6,500 more than a Zoe, which is a factor worth considering, if you are contemplating your first EV. The Renault offering is a most positive one.

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