Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric.
Renault has unveiled the Mégane E-Tech Electric, the model that kicks off the brand’s second-generation of electric vehicles (EVs).
The Mégane E-Tech electric is the first car built on the Alliance-developed CMF-EV platform. It was inspired by the Morphoz concept car in 2019, and was heralded by the Megane eVision show car last year.
EXTERIOR STYLING
The Mégane E-Tech Electric is the first model of Renault’s new generation of EV native cars. It is also the first with the brand’s new Nouvel’R logo.
Renault says its “disruptive” design goes against the styling of conventional compact saloons. It also features more technological and hi-fi elements, such as vent grills and laser engraving on the lower door protection.
Features inspired by crossovers include the 20-inch wheels, a high beltline and protective strips on the wheel arches.
The car’s full-LED lighting is laser cut. The Mégane E-Tech Electric has a new lighting signature with “electrifying” patterns that cross over to the logo.
At the rear, laser-cut micro-optic fibres laid in criss-crossing lines create an intriguing 3D-like shimmer effect. In addition to the elegant indicators, the brake lights are displayed in two clear lines, much like a “pause” sign.
INTERIOR DESIGN
The Renault Megane E-Tech Electric has the same interior dimensions as the internal combustion engine Megane.
However, Renault says there is more occupant space here thanks to the longer wheelbase, smaller engine compartment and pared-back dashboard. The roominess is also improved as the car does not require a drive-shaft tunnel.
The dashboard is dominated by the OpenR single-screen system, which combines a digital instrument panel and infotainment unit.
The OpenR screen has a display area like no other: a 12.3-inch dashboard screen (1920 x 720 pixels, landscape) and 12-inch multimedia screen (1250 x 1562 pixels, portrait).
The entry level model features a 9-inch multimedia screen (1250 x 834 pixels, landscape). It incorporates the latest-generation Qualcomm Snapdragon processor with 4K multiple display capabilities, and advanced connectivity with USB-C ports.
Meanwhile, the instrument panel accommodates different driver displays according to their priorities: driving layout, navigation layout, zen layout and battery layout.
Recycled and unusual materials have been used to construct the interior. The dashboard on the entry-level and mid-range variants is topped with a textile finish, while the premium trim is finished with faux-leather TEP.
The upper contour of the dashboard and upper strip of the inner door panels feature Alcantara upholstery for mid-range cars and a decorative “Nuo” wood finish on the premium trim.
Nuo is an innovative new material made of thin lime timber veneer bonded to a cotton textile backing using an environmentally friendly adhesive. This is its first use in a production model.
Across all trim packages, storage compartments in the door panels are lined with carpet for added visual comfort and sound proofing.
Boot volume is 440 litres. It can be increased when the 60:30 split-folding seats are folded down.
POWERTRAIN
The Megane E-Tech Electric is powered by an electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) that does not contain rare earth metals. Its optimised design also contributes to its lighter weight – at 145kg, it is 10 percent lighter than the motor in the Zoe.
The electric motor comes in two performance levels. It either produces 129hp (96kW) and 250Nm, or 215hp (160kW) and 300Nm. In the latter guise, the Megane E-Tech Electric does zero to 100km/h in 7.4 seconds.
Powering the electric motor is a brand-new 395kg battery designed to fit in the CMF-EV platform. At 110mm thick, this battery is smaller than the Zoe’s, and is supposedly the thinnest one in the market.
The lithium-ion NMC (Nickel, Manganese, Cobalt) batteries from LG have more nickel and less cobalt, resulting in a greater energy density of 600 Wh/L, or 20 percent more than the Zoe.
Two battery capacities are offered: a 40kWh battery which delivers up to 299km, and 60kWh, which provides up to 470km. Both figures are derived from the WLTP cycle.
STAYING CONNECTED
With the new OpenR Link multimedia system with Google built-in, the system provides familiar apps and services like Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play, while always keeping the system updated.
Renault says the connected experience is similar to a smartphone or tablet. A new partnership with Harman Kardon will give users a new audio experience as well.
SAFETY AND DRIVER ASSISTANCE
The Renault Megane E-Tech Electric has 26 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These are divided into three categories: driving, parking and safety.
To signal its presence to pedestrians, the car emits a sound known as Vehicle Sound Pedestrian (VSP), which is designed to warn pedestrians without alarming them.
No timeline has been provided yet, but Renault’s official agent in Singapore, Wearnes Automotive, has indicated that it is planning to introduce the car here.
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