The Renault Kangoo electric utility vehicle became the best-selling model in France this year, with 2,161 units sold in the first seven months of 2023.
According to figures provided by Avere France, historically, 100,000 zero-emission vans of this model have been registered.
It’s worth noting that the automaker introduced its first electric utility vehicle model in 1985, the Renault Express, which operated on nickel and zinc batteries.
On the other hand, the Kangoo was launched in 1997, with “Electi’cité” and “Elect’road” versions.
In that year, the Renault factory in Maubeuge, in the Hauts-de-France region, began production of this model for the global market.
The plant, employing around 2,500 people, aims to create more jobs for the production of the Renault 4 electric model.
Together with the facilities in Douai and Ruiz, it is part of Renault’s ElectriCity hub, Europe’s largest and most competitive zero-emission vehicle production center.
This center aims to produce 480,000 EVs per year by 2025.
It was in 2011 when the Renault Kangoo ZE was introduced to the general public, pioneering the segment of electric vans and combi-space vehicles.
The Kangoo ZE was also the first 100% electric vehicle to be awarded the title of “International Van Of The Year.”
What are the features of the electric Kangoo?
The latest version, known as the Kangoo E-Tech, comes in an “L1” version and offers a cargo volume of up to 3.9 cubic meters and a payload of up to 608 kilograms.
Additionally, it can tow up to 1,500 kg.
This vehicle can travel up to 230 km under real conditions without the need to recharge the battery.
It features a 120-horsepower propulsion system and a 45 kWh battery.
It’s worth mentioning that Renault invested €150 million in the factory and a new battery production center, allowing for the creation of storage components for both passenger and utility versions of the Kangoo.
In terms of dimensions, the L1 measures 1,864 mm in height, 2,159 mm in width, and 4,486 mm in length.
There are different versions available, such as Grand Confort and Extra.
Charging options include an integrated 11 kW charger or an 80 kW combined CCS fast charger.
Depending on the version, the price of these models ranges from €32,291 to €33,455.
The Kangoo E-Tech comes with driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, emergency braking assistance, and lane-keeping assistance.
According to Renault, using this vehicle can save around €728.37 annually, including taxes.
Through the My Renault app, you can preheat the cabin or activate the climate control remotely.
It also allows access to apps through its 8-inch touchscreen and finding charging points to optimize the journey.
In the market, this vehicle competes with models like the Citroën ë-Berlingo, Peugeot e-Partner, Nissan Townstar Electric, and Fiat e-Doblo.
Renault’s Push for Electric Vehicle Mass Adoption
Following the announcement of a social leasing plan for renting electric vehicles at €100 per month, Renault will offer the Renault 5 and the Twingo E-Tech.
The latter is a compact model with a range of 190 km and a 22 kWh lithium-ion battery. It can reach a top speed of 135 km/h.
This initiative is set to roll out in the autumn, according to officials from the Ministry of Transport and Energy Transition.
Read more: Social Leasing: French Measure Enables Renting EVs for €100
