Renault confirms plug-in and hybrid versions of key models by 2020

By Matt de Prez

2 October 2018

Renault will launch hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of its Clio, Megane and Captur models by 2020, alongside an affordable all-electric K-ZE EV next year.

The French car manufacturer revealed the K-ZE – which it describes as an A-segment, SUV-inspired electric vehicle, capable of a 155 miles range - at the Paris Motor Show. Initially it will be sold in the Chinese market, ahead of its roll-out into other global markets.

In a statement made ahead of the Paris Show, Groupe Renault chairman and chief executive, Carlos Ghosn, clearly spelled out the need for EVs in the Renault range, stating that changing government policies over diesel have “condemned” diesel.

Ghosn said that China was the largest and fastest-growing market for electric vehicles and Renault K-ZE will therefore be offered there first and will be manufactured locally by e-GT New Energy Automotive Co, a Joint Venture with Dongfeng Motor Group and Nissan.

“Groupe Renault was a pioneer and is the European leader in electric vehicles. We are introducing K-ZE, an affordable, urban, SUV-inspired electric model combining the best of Groupe Renault: our leadership in EV, our expertise in affordable vehicles and in forging strong partnerships,” he added.

Renault has also confirmed its plans to further electrify its range in its 2020 product refresh cycle, offering hybrid on Clio and plug-in hybrid on Mégane and Captur.

The brand said that it would use e-Tech, described as “an innovative, 100% Renault in-house technology which enables Renault to offer hybrid versions on B and C segment models” to implement the switch to an electrified drivetrain.

Ghosn also discussed how on-board experiences evolve with the advent of new mobility in the brand’s press conference.

Renault’s investment stake in French media group Challenges will drive the delivery of a new vision for the future of mobile content, Renault said, in the form of an Augmented Editorial Experience (AEX).

“With the advent of connected, autonomous vehicles, customers will expect more of their traveling time. Experimenting with Groupe Challenges, we imagine what tomorrow’s connected, personalized mobility experience could be”, Ghosn said. “Access to premium content delivered through unique on-board experiences for drivers and passengers will become key differentiators.”