New Renault ZOE sets new world record

The new 100% electric supermini the Renault ZOE has set a new world record for the longest distance travelled in 24 hours by a production electric car. The challenge was set out on a speed ring in Normandy where fifteen drivers took turns at the wheel, driving and charging as necessary, two cars took part and after 24 hours they crossed the finishing line with mileages of 1,618 km and 1,506 km respectively. The record was conducted in the presence of an official observer and is pending Guinness Book of Records homologation.

The Renault ZOE is priced from £13,650 on the road after Plug-in Car Grant deduction. It is the only electric vehicle to feature the Chameleon charger. Patented by Renault, this charger is compatible with all power levels up to 43kW. Charging batteries at a charging station can take between 30 minutes and nine hours. The ZOE can be charged in an hour at 22kW. This intermediate power level extends battery life and puts less pressure on the power grid than the fast-charging of batteries at 43kW.

The Renault ZOE will appear in showrooms later in 2012 however, customers can currently reserve one on www.renault.co.uk/ze for £49 deposit.