Paris Show 2010 Highlights: Renault Zoe Concept

A near production ready version of Renault’s Zoe electric supermini drops the strongest hints yet at the styling direction of the firm’s forthcoming fourth-generation Clio.

The Zoe incorporates many of the styling cues of the striking DeZir concept, also at Paris and the brainchild of new Renault design boss Laurens van der Acker and exterior designer Yann Jarsalle.

The next Clio will also be the work of van der Acker and Jarsalle and will be part of Renault’s plans to transform the firm’s styling, giving its cars more visual flair and appeal. The Zoe’s striking front-end, for example, is almost certain to be lifted adopted by the next Clio and is described as part of “Renault’s new brand identity”.

Front-end modifications are only likely to be made from Zoe to Clio to enable cooling to the engine; its teardrop shape at the rear, however, is another design cue that the next Clio is likely to adopt.

“We need to make Renault a more passionate, emotional brand, with warmer, simpler and more desirable cars,” van der Acke recently told Autocar.

The 4086mm long, 1788mm wide and 1540mm high Renault Zoe Preview, revealed today at the Paris motor show, is a near-definitive representation (90 per cent showroom ready) of the car that will make production in 2012.

A lithium-ion battery pack powers a 79bhp, 164lb ft electric motor and provides a 100-mile range. It can get from 0-62mph in 8.1sec and reach a top speed of 84mph.

Recharging takes between six and eight hours, while a 37-mile range is achievable in 10-minute charge or 80 per cent battery capacity is available after half an hour of charging.

The Zoe Preview also showcases several clever pieces of tech. A special air-con system prevents occupants’ skin from dehydrating, a toxicity sensor automatically closes air vents to prevent pollutants entering the cabin, an electric system releases special scents into the cabin depending on the mood of the driver and special lighting and audio systems have been added to “stimulate and relax” occupants”.

Thanks to: Autocar