Electric Cars: The Basics
For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles:
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The All-Electric Renault Scenic E-Tech SUV
Groupe Renault (Renault Group/ Renault S.A.), is a leading player in the global automotive sector. The company was established in 1899 and has over the course of its history, manufactured varied vehicles, to include: trucks, tractors, buses and even tanks! Renault has been part of the global Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance since 1999 (previously, Renault-Nissan Alliance). The partnership makes the partnership the 3rd largest automotive group in the world after Volkswagen and Toyota. Renault offers both, battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) for passenger cars and commercial electric vehicles. The portfolio includes:
- All-electric Renault TWIZY
- All-electric Renault ZOE E-TECH
- All-electric Renault ZOE Van E-TECH
- All-electric Renault Megane E-TECH
- All-electric Renault Scenic E-TECH
- All-electric Renault 5 E-TECH
- All-electric Renault Kangoo E-TECH
- All-electric Renault Master E-TECH
- Renault Rafale E-Tech Plug-In Hybrid
- Renault Captur E-TECH Plug-In Hybrid
- Renault Megane E-TECH Plug-In Hybrid
- Renault Megane Sport Tourer E-TECH Plug-In Hybrid
The all-electric Renault Scenic compact SUV has certainly made a statement since the production version was released in September 2023. Since then, the Scenic E-Tech 100% electric car has won number of accolades and positive reviews, to include, The Car of the Year 2024 and AutoTrader New Car Awards 2024. The pure electric Scenic demonstrates how far Renault has progressed in relation to the development of electric vehicles (EVs), since the launch of the all-electric Renault Zoe in 2012.
The conventional internal combustion engine Renault Scénic, a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) was launched in 1996. However, given the global trend towards SUVs, in particular, compact e-SUVs, it is not surprising the Scénic has been transformed to an all-electric SUV. The concept Renault Scenic Vision was shown in May 2022 developed on the Common Module Family (CMF-EV) platform.
The platform, a Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance initiative was renamed AmpR Medium in November 2023. The all-electric Nissan Ariya and the Renault Megane E-Tech Electric also use this platform. The compact pure electric five-door Scenic E-Tech SUV is 4.47m long (wheelbase: 2.78m), with a 1.57m height. In comparison, the Nissan Ariya is 4.59m long (wheelbase: 2.77m), with a 1.66m height.
The Scenic 100% electric family car is available in two EV battery sizes (400V Lithium-ion): 60 kWh (Comfort Range)/ 87 kWh (Long Range). The smaller 60 kWh EV battery has a 430 km claimed WLTP range, while the 87 kWh has a 625 km claimed range (WLTP). The Scenic EV has a certified consumption between 16.3 and 17.2 (kWh/ 100km). Adjusting for real-world driving conditions, expect the entry-level 60 kWh to achieve up to 365 km, and the larger 87 kWh to achieve 530 km on a full charge. A heat pump comes as standard. A heat pump increases the efficiency of the EV i.e. increases the zero-tailpipe emission electric range.
Though, it maybe tempting to opt for the Long Range variant, we encourage buyers to deliberate carefully if they really need the larger EV battery. Most families use a vehicle for short commutes (school runs, grocery store, gym etc). The 60 kWh EV battery is adequate for most day-to-day driving needs. However, if you are intending to travel long distances on a regular basis, then the 87 kWh variant may be more suited.
The pure electric Scenic offers AC charging capability up to 22 kW (three-phase). For homes powered by single-phase power supply, the charging will be limited to 7.4 kW. The 60 kWh EV battery can be fully charged (0%-100%) in 9 hours 15 minutes using a single-phase smart EV charger. Charging at 11 kW (three-phase) will take 6 hours 30 minutes, and at 22 kW (three-phase), 3 hours 15 minutes. DC charging at 150 kW, the EV battery can be charged from 15%-80% in 32 minutes.
The 87 kWh EV battery can be fully charged (0%-100%) in 12 hours 56 minutes using a single-phase smart EV charger. Charging at 11 kW (three-phase) will take 9 hours and at 22 kW (three-phase), 4 hours 48 minutes. DC charging at 150 kW, the EV battery can be charged from 15%-80% in 37 minutes. For those new to electric cars, we at e-zoomed encourage the use of on-site solar PV and battery storage for home charging. It helps save money and also achieve ‘well-to-wheel’ zero-tailpipe emissions for the electric car. Battery storage can be used for powering both the EV and your home. e-zoomed offers fantastic bundle offers on home solar panels and energy storage!
The manufacturer offers a good level of equipment and technology as standard, to include: autonomous driving level 1: adaptive cruise control with speed limiter, active driver assist: adaptive cruise control + lane keeping assist, hill start assist, emergency lane keep assist including solid line, oncoming traffic & road edge detection, blind spot recognition & rear detection with emergency lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, lane change warning, lane keeping assist, rear view camera and more. The EV has not yet been awarded the Euro NCAP Safety Rating.
Also as standard are: 12″ openR multimedia screen, 12.3″ driver information display and wireless phone charger. However, features like the solarbay panoramic sunroof, smart rear view mirror, 360 camera, hands free parking are only available with the top trim! In terms of practicality, the EV does not have a frunk, but does offer a decent sized glove box. There is also decent headroom and legroom for passengers seated in the rear, and the panoramic sunroof does enhance the sense of space. The BEV has a 545 L boot. The exterior styling is a good balance between a conventional and modern design. We think it is very appealing.
The five-seat five-door Renault Scenic electric SUV is available only as a front-wheel drive (FWD). The E-Tech electric 170 hp (comfort range/ 60 kWh) variant can achieve 0-100 km/h in 8.6 seconds (max power: 170 hp/ Torque: 280 Nm). The top speed of the EV is 150 km/h. The E-Tech electric 220 hp (long range/ 87 kWh) variant can achieve 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds (max power: 220 hp/ Torque: 300 Nm). The top speed of the EV is 170 km/h. Do keep in mind the weight of the onboard EV battery does impact performance. The 60 kWh battery weighs 411 kg, while the 87 kWh weighs 530 kg.
Bottom-line, electric driving is good for the environment and the wallet!
PROS | CONS |
---|---|
Available in two EV battery sizes with good range | DC charging limited to 150 kW DC |
AC charging up to 22 kW/ heat pump as standard | Solarbay panoramic sunroof not standard on all variants |
Spacious and practical | Rear-view limited visibility |
The All-Electric Renault Scenic E-Tech SUV (credit: Renault)
At A Glance | |
---|---|
EV Type: | Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV) |
Body Type: | SUV |
Engine: | Electric |
Available In Ireland: | Yes |
Variants (4 Options) |
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Renault Scenic E-Tech evolution (from € 39,995) |
Renault Scenic E-Tech techno (from € 41,995) |
Renault Scenic E-Tech esprit Alpine (from € 51,995) |
Renault Scenic E-Tech iconic (from € 54,795) |
EV Battery & Emissions | |
---|---|
EV Battery Type: | Lithium-ion |
EV Battery Capacity: | Available in two battery sizes: 60 kWh (411 kg)/ 87 kWh (530 kg) |
Charging: | 130 – 150 kW DC Rapid Charging (15%-80%: 32-37 mins). Onboard AC charger: 22 kW AC (0%-100%: 3 hrs 15 mins/ 4 hrs 48 mins) |
Charge Port: | Type 2 |
EV Cable Type: | Type 2 |
Tailpipe Emissions: | 0g (CO2/km) |
EV Battery Warranty: | 8 years or 160,000 km |
Average Cost Of Residential Charging | |
---|---|
Battery net capacity: 16.7 kWh | € 4.00 |
Battery net capacity: 30.0 kWh | € 7.19 |
Battery net capacity: 39.2 kWh | € 9.39 |
Battery net capacity: 45.0 kWh | € 10.78 |
Battery net capacity: 50.0 kWh | € 11.98 |
Battery net capacity: 64.0 kWh | € 15.34 |
Battery net capacity: 71.0 kWh | € 17.01 |
Battery net capacity: 77.0 kWh | € 18.45 |
Battery net capacity: 90.0 kWh | € 21.57 |
Battery net capacity: 100.0 kWh | € 23.97 |
- Note 1: The average cost of residential electricity in Ireland varies depending on the region, supplier and type of energy used. An average for Ireland is 23.97 cents/kWh.
- Note 2: Not all EV manufactures make available the data on net EV battery capacity, and in a number of instances the EV battery capacity advertised, does not state if it is gross or net capacity. In general, usable EV battery capacity is between 85% to 95% of the gross available capacity.
Charging Times (Overview) | |
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Slow charging AC (3 kW – 3.6 kW): | 6 – 12 hours (dependent on size of EV battery & SOC) |
Fast charging AC (7 kW – 22 kW): | 3 – 8 hours (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
Rapid charging AC (43 kW): | 0-80%: 20 mins to 60 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
Rapid charging DC (50 kW+): | 0-80%: 20 mins to 60 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
Ultra rapid charging DC (150 kW+): | 0-80% : 20 mins to 40 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
Tesla Supercharger (120 kW – 250 kW): | 0-80%: up to 25 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
- Note 1: SoC: state of charge
Dimensions | |
---|---|
Height (mm): | 1571 |
Width (mm): | 1864 |
Length (mm): | 4470 |
Wheelbase (mm): | 2785 |
Turning Circle (m): | 10.92 |
Boot Space (L): | 545 |
Frunk (L): | N/A |
E-Tech electric 170 hp (comfort range) | |
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EV Battery Capacity: | 60 kWh |
Pure Electric Range (WLTP): | 430 km |
Electric Energy Consumption (kWh/ 100km): | 16.3 – 16.7 |
Charging: | 130 kW DC Rapid Charging (15%-80%: 32 mins). Onboard AC charger: 22 kW AC (0%-100%: 3 hrs 15 mins)/ 7.4 kW AC (0%-100%: 9 hrs 15 mins |
Top Speed: | 150 km/h |
0-100 km/h: | 8.6 seconds |
Drive: | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
Electric Motor (kW): | 125 |
Max Power (hp): | 170 |
Torque (Nm): | 280 |
Transmission: | Automatic |
Seats: | 5 |
Doors: | 5 |
Kerb Weight (kg): | 1,757 |
Towing Capacity (Braked/Unbraked)/ (kg): | 1,100/ 750 |
Colours: | 9 |
Euro NCAP Safety Rating: | N/A |
E-Tech electric 220 hp (long range) | |
---|---|
EV Battery Capacity: | 87 kWh |
Pure Electric Range (WLTP): | 625 km |
Electric Energy Consumption (kWh/ 100km): | 17.2 |
Charging: | 150 kW DC Rapid Charging (15%-80%: 37 mins). Onboard AC charger: 22 kW AC (0%-100%: 4 hrs 48 mins)/ 7.4 kW AC (0%-100%: 12 hrs 56 mins) |
Top Speed: | 170 km/h |
0-100 km/h: | 7.9 seconds |
Drive: | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
Electric Motor (kW): | 160 |
Max Power (hp): | 220 |
Torque (Nm): | 300 |
Transmission: | Automatic |
Seats: | 5 |
Doors: | 5 |
Kerb Weight (kg): | 1,853 |
Towing Capacity (Braked/Unbraked)/ (kg): | 1,100/ 750 |
Colours: | 9 |
Euro NCAP Safety Rating: | N/A |
The Pros For Electric Cars
Pros: Electric Vehicles (EVs) | |
Lower air pollution: | One can never overestimate the negative impact of air pollution on the health of individuals, in particular, the vulnerable i.e. the children and the elderly. In Ireland, we have witnessed a significant increase in air pollution over the past decade, and yes, petrol and diesel tailpipe emissions have contributed to the worsening air quality across all our villages, towns and cities. Road transportation, though not the only source of pollutants, is a leading source, contributing up to 30%. Electric vehicles help reduce tailpipe emissions i.e. leading to improved air quality. Pure electric cars have no tailpipe, hence the expression ‘zero-tailpipe emissions’ or ‘zero-emissions’. PHEVs do have tailpipe emissions, given the hybrid nature of the vehicle (ICE and electric), but have far lower emissions than a conventional petrol or diesel car. Moreover, when a PHEV is driven on electric mode, the tailpipe emissions are zero! So bottom-line, both BEVs and PHEVs help improve air quality! |
Lower running costs: | It is a misconception that electric cars are more expensive than petrol and diesel cars. In fact, when electric cars costs are assessed on a life cycle basis, it is clear that EVs are cheaper to drive per km than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. For a start, charging an EV battery can cost as little as 5 €, and in most cases less than 10 €. However, refuelling a tank of fuel can cost up to 120 € (if not more!). An EV costs between 5 and 10 cents per km to drive, significantly lower compared to the cost of driving a petrol or diesel car. |
Lower maintenance costs: | This is applicable only for BEVs. Pure electric cars have far fewer moving parts compared to an internal combustion engine (ICE) and therefore there is less that can go wrong i.e. lower maintenance costs. |
Lower risk of breakdown: | Given the fewer moving parts in an electric car, it is not surprising that EVs have a lower probability for a breakdown compared to petrol or diesel vehicles. Most EV drivers have become astute at ‘topping up’ the EV battery on a regular basis to avoid the risk of being stranded due to an empty EV battery, one of the reasons for seeking breakdown assistance. |
Convenience of charging at home: | Convenience: an EV can be charged at the convenience of your own home or office (no need to visit a petrol station!). In fact, most EVs are charged overnight at home, when the energy prices are the cheapest! |
Lower energy price volatility: | EV charging costs have a lower price volatility and lower risk of price inflation, compared to petrol prices (petrol prices continue to negatively impact household finances as fuel prices increase). |
Solar panels can significantly reduce charging costs: | Residential solar panels can be used to lower the cost of charging. Using residential PV solar, the cost of generating and consuming electricity is nominal, if not free (apart from the upfront costs). Both residential and commercial solar installations (for business premises) are ways to hedge against energy price inflation and achieve ‘well-to-wheel’ zero-tailpipe emissions. |
Lower noise pollution: | In general, electric cars are silent with an in-built artificial noise generator primarily for pedestrian safety. The lower noise from EVs help improve the quality of our living environment, in particular, those living close to busy roads and thoroughfares. |
Instant torque: | Yes, electric vehicles (EVs) have better torque performance than internal combustion engines, hence the ‘torqueof the town’! If in doubt, look at a traffic light that has both these types of cars. As the signal changes to green, the electric car will quickly leave behind the diesel and petrol cars. The primary reason for the superior acceleration in electric cars, is that, electric vehicles deliver ‘peak or maximum torque’ instantaneously, producing immediate acceleration. However, petrol and diesel cars take time to reach maximum or peak torque. In particular, diesel cars are known for being sluggish. Bottom-line, the better torque performance of electric cars, further contributes to the ‘fun factor’ in driving EVs compared to conventional cars. |
Better for the environment: | Yes, apart from air pollution, in general, electric vehicles are better for the environment, given the lack of dependence on polluting fossil fuels. |
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