World News: Renault to produce electric Kangoo van

To be built on the same production line as the internal combustion-engined versions, the new model will benefit from the same expertise and supply chain as the current Kangoo. A specialist LCV (light commercial vehicle) plant for twenty years, Maubeuge currently produces Kangoo, Kangoo Van and Kangoo be bop (three-door car version available on the Continent) and is able to continuously adapt to demand and the diverse nature of these types of vehicle (for example, short and long wheelbase versions, or those with and without side windows and tailgates). The choice of this factory will also allow the Group to ramp-up industrial production quickly, while guaranteeing high build quality levels.

Kangoo be bop Z.E. and Kangoo Z.E. Concept were the precursors of the future electric Kangoo Van, which will be designed for professionals, primarily for urban and suburban use. Not only will the new model have a minimal impact on the environment, it will also boast an excellent TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) figure, making it a highly attractive solution for both individual customers and larger fleet operators.

Last week, Renault announced further details on several of its other future electric vehicles, including the news that the Group planned to take part in a French joint venture for research into the production and recycling of batteries for electric vehicles. A city car derived from the Twizy Z.E. Concept will begin production at its Valladolid plant in Spain from 2011, while another French plant, Flins, will build a car based on the Zoe Z.E. concept from 2012.

Renault had said will mass market a complete range of affordable zero-emission electric vehicles from 2011.

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