Renault Group took the drapes off the first of its generation 2.0 electric vehicles, the all-new Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric, marking the beginning of a new chapter of the electric revolution started some 10 years ago. The Mégane E-Tech Electric is the first model in the Renault range to benefit from the Alliance’s CMF-EV platform, dedicated to all-electric vehicles manufactured, developed, and optimized for each brand’s new-generation models. With the new platform, Renault has not only increased the energy efficiency and range of an electric car while reducing its charging time, but also enhanced the chassis and steering systems, along with a lowered centre of gravity for the batteries mounted under the floor.
Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric exterior:
The all-new Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric is the first model of the new generation of Renault’s EV cars, and is also the first model to wear the brand’s new ‘Nouvel’R’ logo. The design goes against the traditional compact saloon, giving the model a stronger character, but also better aerodynamics and economy. It also draws heavily on high-tech and hi-fi designs such as vent grilles, laser engraving on lower door protection. With an extended wheelbase of 4,210mm, and reduced overhang offered by the new CMF-EV modular platform, the Mégane E-Tech Electric features a thin battery, allowing for refined proportions while boosting the car’s interior. In profile, the Mégane E-Tech Electric receives large 20-inch wheels, protective strips on the lower body and wheel arches, and a high beltline. The line of the roof, wide tracks, and flush door handles feel more like a coupé, while the height, spaciousness, and boot volume are suggestive of traditional hatchbacks. The Mégane E-Tech Electric will be available in six colors- Rafale Grey, Schist Grey, Midnight Blue, Flame Red, Diamond Black, and Glacier White, as well as a two-tone finish with the roof, pillars, and depending on the chosen trim side, mirror guards in Schist Grey, Diamond Black, or Glacier White.
Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric interior:
The interior dimensions of the Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric are similar to those of the ICE-powered Mégane, if not bigger. The CMF-EV enhances the overall spaciousness and practicality with an extended wheelbase, and the absence of a drive-shaft tunnel. It features the new OpenR single screen consisting of the digital instrument panel and central console multimedia screen. A 12.3-inch dashboard screen and a 12-inch multimedia screen are on offer on higher trims, while the base version gets a 9-inch multimedia screen. The instrument panel accommodates four different driver displays according to their priorities- driving layout, navigation layout, zen layout, and battery layout. It also features five widgets (fuel use, tyre pressure, distance, eco-monitor, music) and eight color schemes.
Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric interior features:
The dashboard is topped with a textile finish, while the premium trim comes with faux-leather TEP. The upper outline of the dash and upper strip of the inner door panels feature Alcantara upholstery for mid-range variants and a ‘Nuo’ wood finish on the premium trim. The absence of a gear selector has freed up more space between the two front seats, which now houses a 7-litre storage compartment. There are also two additional cup holders and 3-litres of storage located under the central armrest which can slide by 55mm for better comfort. All in all, the Mégane E-Tech Electric offers 30-litres of on-board storage. The boot boasts 440-litres while the charging cables have their own 22-litre storage area accessible via a removable boot floor panel. The boot capacity can be increased with the rear seats folded down in the 60:30 format and the front passenger seat folded up. The central armrest can slide back and forward to offer a convenient storage space housing two USB-C ports and a 12V socket.
Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric powertrain:
With its brand-new motor delivering up to 160kW with 300Nm of torque and four levels of regenerative braking, the Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric boasts better power output compared to permanent magnet motors. The 145kg motor will do duty in two guises- a 96kW, 130hp and 250Nm variant, or a 160kW, 218hp and 300Nm variant. It takes the Mégane E-Tech Electric from 0 to 100kmph in just 7.4 seconds. The Mégane E-Tech Electric is equipped with an optimized regenerative braking system with four brake levels selected via the paddles behind the steering wheel.
Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric range/charging:
The Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric comes with a choice of two battery capacities- a 40kWh with 300km (WLTP cycle), and 60kWh for a range of up to 470km (WLTP cycle, depending on model). They come with an 8-year guarantee, during which they will be replaced free of charge should they deteriorate to less than 70% of their nominal capacity. The Mégane E-Tech Electric is available with multiple charging solutions- a 7.4kW wallbox that juices up the battery for a 400km range in 8 hours, a 22kW public charging station that gives a 160km range from an hour long charge, and a 130kW fast charging station with 200km-300km range in 30 minutes.
Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric features:
The Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric boasts technology that provides services like Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play, while always keeping the system updated. It is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and operates by cable or as a wireless system. In addition to the two Arkamys sound systems that come as standard on the entry- and mid-level trims, the Mégane E-Tech Electric features a Harman Kardon top-of-the-line sound system on the premium trim. The 26 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are divided into three categories- driving, parking, and safety. Among these are Active Driver Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Automatic Emergency Braking, and Occupant Safe Exit are some of the key ADAS tech on the Mégane E-Tech Electric. It also benefits from Full Auto Park, and Smart Rear View Mirror, in addition to the wing mirrors.
News Credit: India Today
