Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Renault Fluence EV to be assembled in Turkey]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/renault-fluence-ev-to-be-assembled-in-turkey/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/renault-fluence-ev-to-be-assembled-in-turkey/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/renault-fluence-ev-to-be-assembled-in-turkey/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Renault Fluence ZE concept - click above for high res image gallery

Renault this morning made the production announcement for the fourth and final of its upcoming electric vehicles the Fluence sedan (see also: Twizy EV, Zoe Z.E., and Kangoo Z.E.). The battery-powered version of the compact sedan will be rolling off the same line as the gas and diesel versions at Renault's factory in Bursa, Turkey. The Fluence will be the model that Renault offers in Israel and Denmark in conjunction with Better Place. Along with charging from 220 V or 400 V outlets, the Fluence will feature the so-called QuickDrop capability for fast battery swaps. The Fluence will also be offered in other markets, although its not clear if any of those other locations will offer any kind of battery swapping capability.

Production of the Fluence ZE will kick off in the first half of 2011.

Gallery: Renault Fluence ZE concept


[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Renault Fluence EV to be assembled in Turkey

Renault Fluence EV to be assembled in Turkey originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbursa turkeyBursaTurkeyElectric carElectricCarrenaultrenault fluencerenault fluence evRenault Fluence Zero EmissionRenault Fluence Zero EmissionsRenault Fluence Zero Emissions ConceptRenault Z.E.Renault ZERenault Zero EmissionRenaultFluenceRenaultFluenceEvRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionsRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionsConceptRenaultZ.e.RenaultZeRenaultZeroEmissionFri, 13 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Dacia launches ethanol-fueled version of Logan MCV]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/dacia-launches-ethanol-fueled-version-of-logan-mcv/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/dacia-launches-ethanol-fueled-version-of-logan-mcv/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/dacia-launches-ethanol-fueled-version-of-logan-mcv/#commentsFiled under: ,

Dacia Logan MCV - click above for high-res image gallery

Renault's low-cost, Romania-based brand, Dacia, has introduced a new flex-fuel version of its Logan MCV people mover. The E85-capable wagon uses a 105 hp version of the Renault 1.6-liter four cylinder. With French tax incentives, the Logan starts at a rather miserly €11,200, a very moderate price in Europe. When the "field to wheel" emissions are factored in, the CO2 emissions of the Logan MCV amount to just 116 g/km although this obviously depends greatly on the feedstock source used for the ethanol production. Nonetheless, the Logan qualifies for Dacia's eco2 badging for low emissions vehicles.

The Logan MCV is available with either a five- or seven-seat configuration and running on ethanol boosts output to 105 hp from the 90 hp of the gas-only version. The Logan is now available for order in France.


Gallery: Dacia Logan MCV Hi-Flex


[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Dacia launches ethanol-fueled version of Logan MCV

Dacia launches ethanol-fueled version of Logan MCV originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daciadacia logandacia logan ethanoldacia logan mcv ethanoldacia-loganDaciaLoganDaciaLoganEthanolDaciaLoganMcvEthanolrenaultWed, 11 Nov 2009 08:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault launches sustainable mobility website]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/renault-launches-sustainable-mobility-website/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/renault-launches-sustainable-mobility-website/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/renault-launches-sustainable-mobility-website/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Renault-Nissan alliance is pushing forward perhaps harder than any other established automaker with its electric vehicle efforts. Between the French and Japanese, brands they plan to have as many as eight different battery electric vehicles in production in the next few years. In order to make sure that there is a demand for these zero emissions vehicles, the companies are actively involved in promotional and educational programs for the environment and more friendly vehicles.

The latest product of that is the new sustainable-mobility.org web-site. The site is dedicated to teaching drivers about a variety of ways that they can reduce their carbon footprint from car sharing, driving EVs and other behavioral changes. Renault will be producing a series of feature stories and documentaries focusing on different aspects of sustainability. Right now the front page features an interview with Jean-Yves Le Coz, the director of sustainable mobility for Renault.

[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Renault launches sustainable mobility website

Renault launches sustainable mobility website originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>renaultrenault nissanrenault nissan alliancerenault nissan evRenaultNissanRenaultNissanAllianceRenaultNissanEvsustainabilitysustainablesustainable mobilitysustainable travelSustainableMobilitySustainableTravelTue, 10 Nov 2009 14:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault announces 2011 production of all-electric Kangoo van]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/renault-announces-2011-production-of-all-electric-kangoo-van/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/renault-announces-2011-production-of-all-electric-kangoo-van/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/renault-announces-2011-production-of-all-electric-kangoo-van/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Kangoo be bop Z.E. - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last week, Renault announced it will build the Twizy EV in Spain starting in 2011 and plug-in vehicle batteries and the Zoe Z.E. in France in 2012. But Renault's push to bring electric cars to market soon don't stop there, they've got a trinity to complete. Today, Renault said it build the all-electric Kangoo Van in early 2011 in Northern France. The Kangoo will be built at Renault's M.C.A. (Maubeuge Construction Automobile plant where the automaker also builds standard Kangoos and Renault has been building vans for twenty years.

The production van won't look like the concept be bop version that Renault unveiled in May (above), but it "will be designed for professionals, primarily for urban and suburban use," Renault says. The Kangoo, along with the sporty Zoe and the city-dwelling Twizy, gives Renault a varied collection of all-electric vehicles that, possiblye, everyday drivers will be able to buy in two or three years. Throw in alliance partner Nissan's Leaf and you're looking at the most-developed EV line-up around.

Gallery: Renault Kangoo be bop Z.E.


[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Renault announces 2011 production of all-electric Kangoo van

Renault announces 2011 production of all-electric Kangoo van originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingkangooKangoo Be Bop ZEkangoo bebopkangoo vanKangoo ZEKangoo ZE ConceptKangooBebopKangooBeBopZeKangooVanKangooZeKangooZeConceptrenaulttwizyTwizy Z.E. ConceptTwizy ZETwizy Zero Emission ConceptTwizyZ.e.ConceptTwizyZeTwizyZeroEmissionConceptMon, 09 Nov 2009 17:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault will build Twizy EV in Spain]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/renault-will-build-twizy-ev-in-spain/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/renault-will-build-twizy-ev-in-spain/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/renault-will-build-twizy-ev-in-spain/#commentsFiled under: ,

Renault Twizzy ZE concept - click above for high-res image gallery

Renault announced today that its Valladolid, Spain plant will become the home of a new electric vehicle based on the Twizy Z.E. concept that was show at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The Twizy is a peculiar looking two-seat city vehicle and it will be probably change quite a bit before production. The open sides will likely become fully enclosed and the wheel covers probably won't make it to the road, at least not in their current form. That makes two EV production announcements this week for Renault, following yesterday's decision to build a car based on the Zoe concept in France. The Twizy goes into production in 2011 alongside Mégane Hatchback, Mégane Estate, Modus and Grand Modus.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Renault Twizy, Zoe, Kangoo and Fluence EVs


[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Renault will build Twizy EV in Spain

Renault will build Twizy EV in Spain originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricElectric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric-carElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehiclerenaultrenault twizyrenault twizy productionrenault Twizy Z.ERenaultTwizyRenaultTwizyProductionRenaultTwizyZ.eFri, 06 Nov 2009 14:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault partners with Atomic Energy Commission to build batteries in France]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/renault-partners-with-atomic-energy-commission-to-build-batterie/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/renault-partners-with-atomic-energy-commission-to-build-batterie/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/renault-partners-with-atomic-energy-commission-to-build-batterie/#commentsFiled under: ,



The French half of the Renault-Nissan Alliance has reached an agreement with two partners to develop and produce lithium ion batteries in France. Renault, the French Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) and the French Strategic Investment Fund (FSI) will create a joint venture for EV batteries. The venture will address the full lifecycle of the batteries, including recycling after they have been used in vehicles.

Production is slated to begin in mid-2012 in conjunction with the start of production of an electric city car at Renault's Flins plant outside of Paris. The partners will put up €600 million to establish a capacity of 100,000 units a year. The new car is based on the Zoe ZE concept. Like Nissan's AESC joint venture, the Renault venture is opening to produce batteries for any automaker that wants to use the technology. Renault has not provided any specifics about whether the new venture will use the same technology developed by AESC or go its own way on cell development.

[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Renault partners with Atomic Energy Commission to build batteries in France

Renault partners with Atomic Energy Commission to build batteries in France originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battery joint ventureBatteryJointVenturefrench atomic energy commissionFrenchAtomicEnergyCommissionlithium ion batterieslithium ion batterylithium ion battery ...lithium ion battery manufacturinglithium ion battery packlithium ion battery recyclingLithiumIonBatteriesLithiumIonBatteryLithiumIonBattery...LithiumIonBatteryManufacturingLithiumIonBatteryPackLithiumIonBatteryRecyclingrenaultThu, 05 Nov 2009 13:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault launches new site dedicated to its upcoming EV lineup [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/11/renault-launches-new-site-dedicated-to-its-upcoming-ev-lineup-w/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/11/renault-launches-new-site-dedicated-to-its-upcoming-ev-lineup-w/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/11/renault-launches-new-site-dedicated-to-its-upcoming-ev-lineup-w/#commentsFiled under: ,

Renault Fluence Zero Emissions Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Renault has launched a new site dedicated to promoting its upcoming model range of battery-powered cars. The site is actually about more than just the Fluence, Kangoo, Zoe and Twizy. It also offers explanations of how Renault hopes to make these cars mainstream and affordable. It appears from the information provided that Renault plans to offer all of its EVs sans battery. The energy storage system will all be leased separately with payments going to a chosen energy supplier. There will be three options for replenishing the charge.

Europeans can use their standard 220V / 10-16A outlet to charge in 6-8 hours. A standardized fast charge connector is currently being developed among multiple automakers and utilities which will facilitate 20-30 minute charges with a 400 V / 36 A, three phase source. Finally, Renault appears set to implement battery swap capabilities across its full lineup for 3-minute battery changes. Along with the main site there is a also a video blog that so far contains a series of videos shot at the Frankfurt motor show debut of the ZEV lineup. You can check out one the videos after the jump. Thanks to Shadowcast for the tip!


[Source: Renault-ZE.com]

Continue reading Renault launches new site dedicated to its upcoming EV lineup [w/VIDEO]

Renault launches new site dedicated to its upcoming EV lineup [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 11 Oct 2009 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>renaultrenault electricrenault electric carrenault electric vehiclerenault evRenault Z.E.renault z.e. conceptRenault ZERenault Zero EmissionRenault Zero Emission frankfurtRenaultElectricRenaultElectricCarRenaultElectricVehicleRenaultEvRenaultZ.e.RenaultZ.e.ConceptRenaultZeRenaultZeroEmissionRenaultZeroEmissionFrankfurtSun, 11 Oct 2009 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault plant in Valladolid to build Spain's first mass-produced EV]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/08/renault-plant-in-valladolid-to-build-spains-first-mass-produced/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/08/renault-plant-in-valladolid-to-build-spains-first-mass-produced/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/08/renault-plant-in-valladolid-to-build-spains-first-mass-produced/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Renault Zero Emission line-up - Click for high-res image gallery

Renault's plant in Valladolid, Spain, will some day be one of the factories where Renault will manufacture electric cars. To make sure everything goes as planned, the Spanish government has awarded the French-based manufacturer a €70 million subvention to produce the EVs in country. Which model will be made in Valladolid was not disclosed, but it will be one of the three featured at the Frankfurt Motor Show. In addition to the EV, due in 2011, Renault also announced the production of a new low-CO2 engine and a new subcompact model to replace the unsuccessful Modus. The plant is expected to produce 100,000 cars per year in 2013, with 20 percent of them being pure electrics.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Renault Twizy, Zoe, Kangoo and Fluence EVs


[Source: El País]

Renault plant in Valladolid to build Spain's first mass-produced EV originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>renaultrenault electric vehiclerenault evRenault Z.E.renault z.e. conceptRenaultElectricVehicleRenaultEvRenaultZ.e.RenaultZ.e.ConceptvalladolidThu, 08 Oct 2009 10:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Renault goes Twizy (with Zoe and Fluence and Kangoo)]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-renault-goes-twizy-and-zoe-and-fluence-and-kang/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-renault-goes-twizy-and-zoe-and-fluence-and-kang/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-renault-goes-twizy-and-zoe-and-fluence-and-kang/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Renault Zero Emission line-up - Click for high-res image gallery

The more we see of Renault's all-electric line-up that is on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the more we want to hang out at company cocktail parties. Something delicious and potent must be on tap there. From the elegant and unexpected lines of the Zoe (above, note the recycle logo) to the buggy quirkiness of the Twizy, Renault is displaying some truly fun-looking electric cars here. Now if only these things were available to drive off the lot today, we'd really be getting somewhere. As we said yesterday when we got Renault's official pics, these cars demand a second look in high-res. Have at it in the gallery below. While you do, we'll hunt down more information on Renault's Quickdrop battery exchange station and what role Better Place has with the technology.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Renault Twizy, Zoe, Kangoo and Fluence EVs


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Frankfurt 2009: Renault goes Twizy (with Zoe and Fluence and Kangoo) originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2009Frankfurt2009renault fluencerenault fluence evrenault fluence zero emissionrenault fluence zero emissionsrenault kangoorenault twizyrenault zoeRenaultFluenceRenaultFluenceEvRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionsRenaultKangooRenaultTwizyRenaultZoetwizyWed, 16 Sep 2009 19:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Renault's all-electric four-car attack includes Twizy, the quirkiest car of the IAA]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-renaults-all-electric-four-car-attack-includes/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-renaults-all-electric-four-car-attack-includes/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-renaults-all-electric-four-car-attack-includes/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Renault Zero Emission line-up - Click for high-res image gallery

If nothing else, Renault knows how to make a ca-razy-looking concept car. At the Frankfurt Motor Show today, the company took the wraps off of the Twizy Z.E. (Zero Emission) as part of the four-car line-up of all-electric vehicles at the expo. We saw the top-down teaser last week, but the actual design of the open-air cabin is nothing we could have predicted. The flat lines at the bottom of the wheel covers are particularly mindbending. The other cars in the line-up are (left to right) the Fluence Z.E., the Kangoo Z.E. and the Zoe Z.E.

The Twizy Z.E. looks like a single-seat vehicle, but Renault is calling it a 1+1, so there's got to be a baby seat or something in there. Renault even describes the 2.3 meter-long car as "barely larger than a scooter." Underhood, the Twizy uses a 20 hp, 15 kW motor to reach a top speed of 47 mph. The Zoe Z.E. supermini has a 70 kW motor and a 100-mile range. But lots of cars have that; the Zoe also has a " personalisable avatar for driving information, mood lighting and futuristic 'hydrate, detox and active scent' climate control." So, take that, every car that doesn't. The Fluence and Kangoo we've seen before. To top it all off, Renault is calling their rapid battery exchange stations "Quickdrop," and doesn't mention Better Place once in the initial press release. Hmmm. UPDATE: Actually, they do. It just escaped my notice. Apologies.

Find the press release after the jump. We expect to get more details and pictures of these vehicles at the day continues, but for now check out the design lines in the gallery - really worth it in high-res.


Gallery: Renault's Four Electric Vehicle Concepts


[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Renault's all-electric four-car attack includes Twizy, the quirkiest car of the IAA

Frankfurt 2009: Renault's all-electric four-car attack includes Twizy, the quirkiest car of the IAA originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falsefluencefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009Frankfurt2009quickdroprenaultrenault fluencerenault fluence evrenault fluence zero emissionsrenault fluence zero emissions conceptrenault kangoorenault kangoo rapid eco2renault twizyrenault z.e.renault z.e. conceptrenault zerenault zero emissionrenault zero emission frankfurtrenault zoeRenaultFluenceRenaultFluenceEvRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionsRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionsConceptRenaultKangooRenaultKangooRapidEco2RenaultTwizyRenaultZ.e.RenaultZ.e.ConceptRenaultZeRenaultZeroEmissionRenaultZeroEmissionFrankfurtRenaultZoetwizyzoeWed, 16 Sep 2009 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Carlos Ghosn: EVs could account 10 percent of global sales in 2020]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/carlos-ghosn-evs-could-account-10-percent-of-global-sales-in-20/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/carlos-ghosn-evs-could-account-10-percent-of-global-sales-in-20/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/carlos-ghosn-evs-could-account-10-percent-of-global-sales-in-20/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Renault-Nissan's CEO Carlos Ghosn is a firm believer in the future of electric cars. According to an interview for le Journal du Dimanche, Ghosn says he expects the world's EV market will rise to six million vehicles per year, which is 10 percent of global sales. Ghosn also explained that Renault-Nissan is the manufacturer that invests the most in green technologies and is currently investing €4 billion in EV development and research. This will lead the company, in his words, to become the world's leader in green technologies. Ghosn has said before that EVs using electricity from clean sources (and he includes nuclear here) produce no CO2, making electric drive the greenest possible technology for the automobile.

[Source: Le Journal du Dimanche]

Carlos Ghosn: EVs could account 10 percent of global sales in 2020 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2020Carlos GhosnCarlosGhosnev market shareev previsionev salesEvMarketShareEvPrevisionEvSalesghosnrenault electricrenault-nissanRenaultElectricMon, 14 Sep 2009 18:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Renault shows off Fluence Zero Emissions Concept]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/frankfurt-preview-renault-shows-off-fluence-zero-emissions-conc/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/frankfurt-preview-renault-shows-off-fluence-zero-emissions-conc/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/frankfurt-preview-renault-shows-off-fluence-zero-emissions-conc/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Renault Fluence Zero Emissions Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Renault Fluence is the model that is replacing the Megane sedan this year. The Megane, of course, is the vehicle that the Renault-Nissan Alliance is using to test Better Place's battery swap technology. Put these two facts together and it's no surprise that Renault is bringing the Fluence Zero Emissions Concept to Frankfurt this year, one of four pure electric vehicles that the brand will show off at the IAA. We don't know much about the Fluence ZEC aside from a new set of leaked images, but the grand, sweeping interior certainly looks like it'd be a thrill to sit in.

A Better Place connection for the Fluence ZEC is hinted at in this image, which shows a battery swap station that claims a three-minute exchange time to get a fresh pack. A production version of the all-electric Fluence using lithium-ion batteries is due in 2011, when an expected 20-40,000 units will be produced.


[Source: World Car Fans]

Frankfurt Preview: Renault shows off Fluence Zero Emissions Concept originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fluence Zero EmissionsFluenceZeroEmissionsfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009Frankfurt2009renaultRenault FluenceRenault Fluence Zero EmissionsRenault Fluence Zero Emissions ConceptRenaultFluenceRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionsRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionsConceptMon, 14 Sep 2009 18:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Renault's four electric concepts from the top]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/frankfurt-preview-renaults-four-electric-concepts-from-the-top/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/frankfurt-preview-renaults-four-electric-concepts-from-the-top/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/frankfurt-preview-renaults-four-electric-concepts-from-the-top/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Renault Zero Emission. - Click above to enlarge

A few months ago, Renault announced plans to bring three electric vehicles to the Frankfurt Motor Show: production versions of all-electric Megane and Kangoo, plus a new concept EV. Turns out, we're going to be treated to four all-electric concepts next week in Germany.

Details remain slim, but Renault says it will debut a new range called Renault Zero Emission on display and have released bird's eye view teaser. The most unusual shape belongs to the tiny one-seater on the left. The others look like traditional concept car goodies, full of designs that will never make it to the real world. Nonetheless, we're excited to find out more on September 15th.

[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Renault's four electric concepts from the top

Frankfurt Preview: Renault's four electric concepts from the top originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>renault zeRenault Zero EmissionRenault Zero Emission frankfurtRenaultZeRenaultZeroEmissionRenaultZeroEmissionFrankfurtThu, 10 Sep 2009 11:47:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Daimler and Renault collaborating on four-door Smart]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/report-daimler-and-renault-collaborating-on-four-door-smart/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/report-daimler-and-renault-collaborating-on-four-door-smart/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/report-daimler-and-renault-collaborating-on-four-door-smart/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Reports of a collaboration between Daimler and Renault on a new four-door model to join the Fortwo in Smart dealerships just won't die, leading us to believe there may be a ring of truth behind the rumors. The last time Daimler set out to partner up on a more mainstream Smart, the resulting Forfour - which was based on borrowed underpinnings from Mitsubishi - never met sales expectations and was canceled after a few short years on the market.

Collaborating with Renault on the development of a four-door Smart should help shield Daimler from the high cost of developing a model-specific platform that's unlikely to sell in particularly high volumes. Further, the rumored new model would offer Smart buyers a new option to compete with the new Toyota iQ, which seats up to four occupants despite its diminutive dimensions.

[Source: Detroit News]

REPORT: Daimler and Renault collaborating on four-door Smart originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daimlerdaimler smartDaimlerSmartfour door smartfour-door smartFour-doorSmartFourDoorSmartrenaultrenault daimlerrenault smartRenaultDaimlerRenaultSmartsmartsmart forfourSmartForfourWed, 09 Sep 2009 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault introduces Fluence sedan with new double-clutch transmission]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/02/renault-introduces-the-fluence-sedan-with-new-double-clutch-tran/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/02/renault-introduces-the-fluence-sedan-with-new-double-clutch-tran/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/02/renault-introduces-the-fluence-sedan-with-new-double-clutch-tran/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Renault Fluence - Click above for high-res image gallery

Renault has finally introduced the Fluence, the four-door model that will replace the Mégane Sedan. If this model looks a bit familiar, that because it's the vehicle that Renault will use in all of the EV projects that it is signing around the world. Based on the Samsung SM3, which is itself based on the previous Mégane generation, the Fluence is built in Renault's plant in Turkey. The model will be first offered with two gasoline engines: a 1.6-liter 110hp and a 2-liter 140 hp that can get an optional CVT. There is a bit more novelty when we get to the diesel options: the 1.5-liter dCi is offered in 85, 90, 105 and 110hp versions, fitted to DPF (Diesel Particulate Filters), with the 110hp version fitted to Renault's new double-clutch transmission, called DCT. Sales are expected to start in 2010.


[Source: Autoblog en Español]

Renault introduces Fluence sedan with new double-clutch transmission originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-clutch transmissionDouble-clutchTransmissionfluencerenault fluenceRenaultFluenceWed, 02 Sep 2009 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Volkswagen interested in small-car partnership with Suzuki, still]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/report-volkswagen-interested-in-small-car-partnership-with-suzu/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/report-volkswagen-interested-in-small-car-partnership-with-suzu/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/report-volkswagen-interested-in-small-car-partnership-with-suzu/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Suzuki Alto - Click above for high-res gallery

Just a few months back, Manager Magazin in Germany reported that Volkswagen chairman Ferdinand Piech was interested in procuring a small stake in Suzuki. Those rumors were subsequently denied by Osamu Suzuki, chief executive of the automaker that bears his name.

News comes today from the same source that there may have been a bit more truth to those initial rumors than Suzuki was willing to admit. Says VW Chief Executive Martin Winterkorn, "Suzuki would be an interesting partner because of its competency in small cars." As before, the German magazine suggests that Volkswagen would either purchase a 10-percent stake in Suzuki or enter into a joint venture for the production of small cars for emerging markets.

Of course, even if there have been talks between VW and Suzuki, the German automaker already has plenty on its plate at the moment in the form of a merger with longtime partner Porsche. Perhaps, then, there's room for Renault, which is also reportedly interested in working with Suzuki on future small car projects.


Gallery: 2009 Suzuki Alto


[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Volkswagen interested in small-car partnership with Suzuki, still originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>renaultsuzukisuzuki renaultsuzuki volkswagenSuzukiRenaultSuzukiVolkswagenvolkswagenvolkswagen suzukiVolkswagenSuzukivwvw suzukiVwSuzukiMon, 24 Aug 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault releases ECO<sup>2</sup> version of the Renault Kangoo]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/renault-releases-eco-sup-2-sup-version-of-the-renault-kangoo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/renault-releases-eco-sup-2-sup-version-of-the-renault-kangoo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/renault-releases-eco-sup-2-sup-version-of-the-renault-kangoo/#commentsFiled under: , ,



A panel van able to carry an euro-sized pallet a distance of 100 kilometers while burning less than 5 liters of diesel has arrived: the Renault Kangoo Rapid ECO2. The model, the larger sibling of the Kangoo Express Compact (the model that the all-electric Z.E. is based on), received the standard "green label" treatment that many other models go through in Europe: low-rolling resistance tires, aerodynamic improvements and low-friction engine oil. All this works together to create a van that is able to carry about a half-ton payload at a fuel economy rate of 4.9 l/100 km (48 mpg U.S.). Renault designed this model to get as many tax reductions in Europe as possible; it also saves between €400 and €1,000 per year in fuel, according to Renault Germany.

[Source: Renault Germany via Auto News]

Renault releases ECO2 version of the Renault Kangoo originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 10:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>compacteco2expressgreen labelGreenLabelkangookangoo eco2kangoo expresskangoo express compactKangooEco2KangooExpressKangooExpressCompactFri, 31 Jul 2009 10:21:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: smart partnering with Renault on next-gen forfour]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/report-smart-partnering-with-renault-on-next-gen-forfour/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/report-smart-partnering-with-renault-on-next-gen-forfour/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/report-smart-partnering-with-renault-on-next-gen-forfour/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



According to Manager Magazine from Germany, Mercedes has approached Renault to cooperate in the development of a new small car. Although the conversations have just started, the rumor is that smart would work on a four-seat car with Renault. This would be smart's second attempt to develop such a model, after the huge fiasco now-dead forfour (pictured). That model, shown above, was codeveloped with Mitsubishi and shared its underpinnings with the Colt. Rumors of a new version of the forfour are not new, but the German magazine says that Daimler's strategy relies on selling more sub-compact premium cars. Developing the new A and B Class models can be pursued in-house, but smart apparently needs a partner.

[Source: Manager Magazine / Le Blog Auto]

REPORT: smart partnering with Renault on next-gen forfour originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 18:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>forfourjoint-venturerenault and mercedesrenault and smartRenaultAndMercedesRenaultAndSmartsmart forfourSmartForfourFri, 24 Jul 2009 18:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan: EVs a viable business model in 2012]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/nissan-evs-a-viable-business-model-in-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/nissan-evs-a-viable-business-model-in-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/nissan-evs-a-viable-business-model-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Nissan EV-02 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Despite the sorry state of the global economy, Nissan is investing rather heavily into electric vehicles these days, which is why the Japanese automaker won a $1.6 billion low interest loan under the U.S. Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing program to build batteries and vehicles at its facility in Smyrna, TN.

Nissan's stated goal of mass-producing EVs by 2012 is going to be costly, but the automaker apparently believes building electric cars will finally become part a viable business plan by that time. Andy Palmer, senior vice president and head of product planning at Nissan, had the following to say at at the Reuters Japan Investment Summit:
Normal car development cost is about $300 to $500 million, and EVs are above the upper range of that... We're looking at two stages: initially, at the 2010 launch - that's when we'll get all of the buzz and the aid and all the rest of it. That's why we're talking about mass-marketing in 2012, 2013. That's when it becomes a viable, mass business in our business model.
Obviously, the global automotive market is in the midst of a massive shift towards environmentally-friendly technologies, and a great deal of the money that's being invested in that space right now goes towards battery development. Says Palmer:
I guess it's fair to say that if we couldn't access government funds in this environment, we'd have to slow down the development because of the enormity of the investments.

Gallery: Quick Drive: Nissan EV-02 prototype


[Source: Reuters]

Nissan: EVs a viable business model in 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 11:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric carsElectricCarElectricCarsev-02nissannissan electricnissan electric carnissan electric carsnissan evnissan ev-02NissanElectricNissanElectricCarNissanElectricCarsNissanEvNissanEv-02Fri, 10 Jul 2009 11:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault Z.E. electric car makes its mark at Goodwood]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/renault-z-e-electric-car-makes-its-mark-at-goodwood/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/renault-z-e-electric-car-makes-its-mark-at-goodwood/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/renault-z-e-electric-car-makes-its-mark-at-goodwood/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Renault's Z.E. (Zero Emission) Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

While Porsche was pushing runners to previously-unknown heights, Renault participated in the Goodwood Festival of Speed with something a bit more appropriate. The company's quirky all-electric concept, the Z.E., was on hand along with the Dauphine, an electric Renault from 1959. While the museum-piece Dauphine took it easy on the display stand (see here), the Z.E. went for a spin on the hillclimb route. Renault PR thought this was just the best thing ever, as their release announcing the drive concludes:

At one point on the route, close to Goodwood House, the outlandish Z.E. Concept, replete with its Acid Green windows and roof-mounted solar panels, joined a Jaguar XJ13 and Aston Martin DBR1 for arguably one of the most surreal car parade sights ever seen at the Goodwood Festival.

We're just happy to see the company is willing to put the little neon greenhouse on public display with bona fide classics. Seems like they're confident in the all-electric route they're taking.

Gallery: Renault Z.E. (Zero Emission) Concept at Goodwood


[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Renault Z.E. electric car makes its mark at Goodwood

Renault Z.E. electric car makes its mark at Goodwood originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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