Renault India is gearing up to bring the Zoe EV to India by 2020-2021. To gauge market interest, the model will be showcased in February at the upcoming Auto Expo 2020 in Noida. The car is currently being tested and modified to make it suitable for our conditions (especially for our climate), with Renault testing the range locally as well.
One of the modifications being carried out, for example, is to the underside of the battery, where additional protection from physical damage could be provided. Considering the combination of our unregulated speed-breaker sizes and our penchant for overloading vehicles, this extra protection is thought to be essential.
The first cars to go on sale are likely to be partly assembled in India at the Alliance plant in Chennai, and are expected to be driven by a 90hp electric motor and a 41kWh battery. A sprightly performance is anticipated (despite the kerb weight of around 1.5 tonnes) and the Zoe could have a real-world range of around 300-350km.
The EV is liable to be a bit expensive though, at around Rs 14-16 lakh. Expect i20 levels of space; quality on the inside will be similar too. Still, for those who want an effective electric runabout for the city, this car could be just what's needed.
The company will also showcase multiple other models at the upcoming Auto Expo, including a concept SUV to preview its future sub-four-metre product to rival the EcoSport and the Nexon.