In Geneva, the focus is usually on high design and horsepower, but Renault's new Kangoo Maxi Z.E. deserves attention for being perhaps the most practical vehicle on display.
Unlike, say, the AstroBionix Thor Ultimate Deployment Vehicle, the Maxi Z.E. (for "zero emissions") is already available for pre-ordering online. The new EV van stretches the existing Kangoo Express Z.E. by about 15 inches, creating a panel or crew van that's as versatile -- and spacious -- as Gerard Depardieu. Just like the Express, however, the Maxi features a 44kW electric motor under the hood and a 22kWh lithium-ion battery under the floor. We wonder if Renault will give it the Be Bop treatment.
The new Kangoo now can fit nearly an extra 12 feet of cargo space, or comfortably seat five crew members depending on configuration. At a little over 15 feet long, it's a shot across the bow at the Ford Transit EV, which measures up at nearly the exact same dimensions. Renault is hoping that fleet customers who need to transport cargo and passengers will find the van an economical and attractive option.
Interestingly, that extra 15 inches in length doesn't penalize the EV's range, as the Maxi Z.E. gives drivers around a hundred miles with a top speed limited to 80 mph -- the same range as its smaller sibling. The larger vehicle does come at a higher cost, however: $23,000 at current conversion rates after French tax incentives, about the same price as its diesel stablemate but $3000 more than the Kangoo Express Z.E.
Photos: Renault
