Sust-it test drive the Renault electric ZOE

Apart from the occasional Nissan LEAF and the odd Twizy, you certainly don’t see or hear many pure electric cars buzzing around our streets. Come this summer, this could be thing of the past with the launch of the ZOE electric supermini from Renault. I’ve just driven the pure electric ZOE, and I must say it could be a real game changer and offer an alternative to a liquid fuelled car. See our video take on the ZOE.

The ZOE is smaller and lighter than the LEAF and should deliver greater range too. Renault is quoting figures of 90 to 60 miles on a full charge, costing around £3 at UK average tariff. Charging can be done overnight at home, or fast charged in less than an hour if you have access to high powered charging stations, of which 3500 have already been installed in the UK. Renault have also team-up with British Gas to offer free installation of 32 amp (7kW) ZE ready Single Wall-box with all new and pre-ordered purchases, this will be capable of being charged from completely flat to fully charged in just three and a half hours with the Single Wall-box.

The driving experience is really good, smooth, quiet and relaxing. If you haven’t yet experienced electric motoring, or even motorcycling, I’d recommended getting down to your local dealer to test drive one this summer. You will be surprised at how well they drive both in town and on the open road.

The ZOE impresses again…

Inside the car is very pleasant too, the styling is fresh, seats comfortable and the cabin feels well made. There’s room for five and a normal sized boot, the ZOE shares the Clio platform, which will give you an idea of its size. There are three levels of trim; Expression, Dynamique Zen and Dynamique Intens. All come as standard with R-Link and Tom Tom navigation plus climate control, cruise control and LED daytime running lights.

Prices start from £13,650 after the Plug-in Car Grant (worth £5,000), the battery lease starts at £70 a month (based on a 7,500 miles per annum and 36 month contract) if the battery fails or drops below 75% efficiency during the lease it will be replaced. Running costs should be around £400 per year based on 12,000 miles. Would we recommend the ZOE? Please watch our video to find out.

Euro NCAP – Renault ZOE – Five Stars Crash test