Renault Megane E-Tech Electric SUV revealed … almost
The covers have come off Renault’s latest battery electric vehicle. Well, sort of.
With 30 pre-production examples of the new Megane E-Tech Electric medium SUV hitting European public roads during the northern summer, Renault decided to beat the scoop photographers to the punch by showing off the car in somewhat disguised form.
Previewed by the Megane eVision last year, the Megane E-Tech is based on the same CMF-EV architecture as alliance partner Nissan’s Ariya BEV SUV. It will be fully revealed later in 2021 and go into production in 2022.
Also known as the MeganE (pronounced Megane e), it will be powered by a single 160kW/300Nm eMotor driving the front wheels, serviced by a 60kWh battery pack enabling a claimed 450km range.
However, if the Ariya is any guide, expect bigger motors and batteries in the future, a longer range and all-wheel drive.
Like the Ariya, the Megane E-tech’s interior is expected to abandon physical buttons and switches for predominantly touch-sensitive controls.
Renault has previously talked of a “slim and sleek instrument panel” and that the platform’s flat floor allows the Megane E-Tech to maximise storage and space.
When it launches the Megane E-Tech will be Renault’s biggest BEV, joining the A-segment Twingo E-Tech Electric and B-segment Zoe.
A second Renault electric model is also expected to soon be based on CMF-EV, while Renault has also promised a reborn 5 city car and R4 SUV among seven planned EVs.
In Australia, Renault has recently stopped selling the Zoe and management of the franchise was passed from a factory-owned subsidiary to independent distributor Ateco Automotive.
The only electric Renault sold in Australia is the Kangoo ZE delivery van. From a once comprehensive range of passenger car models, the only Megane still sold here is the RS hot hatch.
Behind the scenes, Ateco is understood to be keen to secure Renault EVs, such as the Megane E-Tech Electric, as soon as possible. But When asked about Australian prospects a spokesman was more cautious:
“We look at all future products available in right-hand drive and are actively developing business cases for a range of future vehicles. We will communicate further details on those future models in due course.”
The Megane E-Tech prototypes are being built at Renault’s Douai plant in France, which the company is organising into a massive EV manufacturing centre with two other sites, Ruitz and Mauberge.
To be dubbed ElectriCity, it is intended to employ nearly 5000 workers and build 400,000 EVs annually by 2025.
By the way, the Megane E-Tech’s camouflage was developed by Renault Design and is “play of lines and patterns” from the company’s logo. Now you know.
