Renault expects Zoe to Outsell Nissan Leaf in Europe

RenaultRenaultFrance, 1898 > present189 models
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is predicting that its ZoeRenault Zoe Gen.1France, 2011 > present12 versions
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electric, five-door hatchback will outsell the Nissan LeafNissan LEAFJapan, 2009 > present29 versions
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in Europe thanks to the cars lower price, longer range, new technology and similar size. 

The Zoe, which will go on sale in Europe later this year, will retail for €15,700 compared to the Leaf's base price of €30,990. The Zoe is slightly smaller than the Leaf: 4084mm long for the Zoe versus 4445mm long Leaf. 

One of the things that Renault thinks will boost sales is the Zoe's more advanced technology. The Zoe offers regenerative braking and a heat pump to keep the batteries at their peak operating temperature that will theoretically lengthen average range. 

"The Zoe is the first electric car in Europe that will address the needs of the mass-consumer market," said Thierry Koskas, Renault's EV project director.

In terms of range, the Zoe is also the leader. It offers a peak range of 130 miles, while the Leaf has been certified at a peak range of 73 miles by the US EPA and 109 miles by the NEDC. The Leaf, though, has a more powerful electric motor rated at 110hp, compared to the 87hp motor in the Zoe. 

Renault offers three other electric vehicles: The FluenceRenault Fluence Z.E.France, 2010 > present5 photos
sedan, KangooRenault Kangoo Express Z.E.France, 2010 > present3 photos
electric delivery van, SmartsmartGermany, 1994 > present13 models
897 photos
4 videos
-like TwizyRenault TwizyFrance, 2010 > present3 photos
1 video
. 

Source: Automotive News