All-new Renault Mégane E-TECH Electric unveiled at the IAA Mobility Show 2021

KUALA LUMPUR: Renault started a new chapter of its electric revolution by introducing the all-new Mégane E-TECH Electric at the IAA Mobility Show 2021. According to the Japanese carmaker, the model is driven by the Renaulution strategy and Renault’s latest ‘Nouvelle Vague’ that aims for leading the energy transition in the world.

The EV is based on the MORPHOZ concept car, which Renault first showcased in 2019, and then previewed in the form of the Mégane eVision show car in 2020. The compact hatchback underpins the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance's dedicated 'CMF-EV' electric architecture and boasts a sleek and elegant style. 

The EV sports a ‘Nouvel'R’ logo symbolizing the brand's transformation. Renault says, “it symbolizes how the core of the market is being revolutionised, represents a gigantic leap forward in all aspects, and is exciting to see and to drive each and every time.”

The automaker also calls the new Mégane E-TECH Electric - a child of the Renaulution, which personifies that it is the first model 100% ‘Made in ElectriCity’ i.e. Renault Group’s new industrial hub located in the North of France.

The key highlights of the Renault Mégane E-TECH Electric are:

• Large alloy wheels (measuring 20 inches)
• Unique Z-shaped flowing LED headlight with adaptive LED headlights
• Slim full-width LED tail-light bar 
• Flush-fitting front door handles
• Hidden rear door handles
• 30 different single and dual-tone paint combos
• Smooth surfacing with a drag coefficient of 0.29
• ‘Open-R' infotainment system within a choice of 9.0- or 12-inch screens, powered by Google's Android Automotive operating system
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• 410-watt Harman Kardon sound system with nine speakers
• 48-colour ambient lighting
• Sustainably sourced wood, Alcantara suede, and textile interior trims

Renault will offer the EV with two powertrain options - one with an electric motor generating 130 hp and 250 Nm of torque, another offering 218 hp and 300 Nm. With the beefier motor, the EV will be able to hit the century sprint in 7.4 seconds with a top speed of 160 kmph. The battery choices include - 40-kWh or 60-kWh batteries offering 300 km and 470 km, respectively.

An important safety feature of Renault’s new EV is Fireman Access that provides special access to rescue teams to use when trying to quickly douse a battery fire on the EV. Renault says that the rescue team “can quench the flames in just 5 minutes as opposed to the usual 1-3 hours.” 

Renault has started accepting the Mégane E-TECH Electric pre-orders in Europe with sales to be commenced from March next year.

Also read: Renault to launch 10 new electric cars by 2025