Although the name might be familiar, it is unique.
The European’s most loved compact car is getting a new body to match the sedan, hatchback and wagon that are currently available on the Old Continent. Megane’s badge will be adorning the tailgate on the crossover for the first-time. It has been used since 1995 on many body styles, including minivans and coupes as well as convertibles.
The Megane E-Tech Electric is the name of the zero-emissions crossover. It weighs 1,624 kg (3,580 lbs) and rides on the CMF-EV modular electric platform which has been used to power the Nissan Ariya. The vehicle measures only 4.21m (165.7 inches) in length. However, the 2.7-meter (106.2 inch) wheelbase allows engineers to create a spacious cabin despite its compact dimensions.
The dedicated EV rides on huge 20-inch wheels and is just 1.5m tall (59inches). It also comes standard with flush front handles for improved aerodynamics, while the rear doors are covered in quarter glass. Megane Etech is the first Renault production model to sport the retro-flavored logo, which was already applied to the concept all-electric 5 supermini.
The new electric crossover is basically a production version Megane’s eVision concept . It is easy to see the similarities. Although there are minor differences, such as the use of conventional side mirrors in place of cameras and the use less flashy LED taillights and headlights, the overall design is the same.
The exterior is a departure from traditional Megane gasoline- or diesel-powered Megane models. However, the interior was also redesigned for the new EV. Renault’s OpenR display, shaped like an “L” inverted, is the all-digital dashboard. It follows the Trezor and Symbioz concepts.
The 12.3-inch screen is located in front of the driver. A 12-inch touchscreen is available for the infotainment system. According to the French automaker the screen is large enough to be considered one of the “best premium sedans”. Megane E-Tech Electric models will come with a smaller central display measuring nine inches and a lower resolution.
Renault’s all-electric Renault is eco-friendly in many ways. It uses a zero-emissions drivetrain and upholstery entirely made from recycled materials. Some of the dashboard’s lower sections are made of recycled plastic. This material has been used to make many other components of the dash that aren’t visible. The Megane E-Tech Electric will be recycled 95 percent of its lifecycle.
An electric motor delivers 130 hp/96 kW and 250 Nm/184 lbft of torque in the lower versions, and 218 HP/160 kW and 300 Nm (221 Lb-ft in the higher-end configurations). The Renault Megane E-Tech Electric is equipped with a beefier e-motor and can go from 0 to 60 mph (100 km/h), in 7.4 seconds, before reaching 100 mph (135 km/h).
Either a 40-kWh or 60-kWh battery pack provides the power for electric motors. The former can provide enough energy to run for 186 miles (300 km) and the latter up to 292 (470 km). Renault offers a free replacement if the battery’s capacity is less than 70%.
After the battery has been exhausted, it can be recharged at up 22 kW AC charging or 130 kW DC. A 130-kW charging station can charge the battery in less than 30 minutes and you get 186 miles (300 km) of WLTP range. After eight hours charging, you can cover 249 miles (400km) in mixed driving conditions with a 7.4-kW wallbox.
The Megane E-Tech Electric arrived at IAA Munich this Week. It will be available for order starting February 2022.