Renault Scenic E-Tech electric is not just another electric SUV. It’s an EV that has won the prestigious title of Car of the Year 2024, beating six other strong contenders. How did Renault pull off this feat? What makes the Scenic E-Tech electric so special? And why should you consider buying one?
The History of Scenic
To understand the Renault Scenic E-Tech electric, we need to go back to its origins. The Scenic nameplate was first introduced in 1996, when Renault launched the Mégane Scénic, the first compact MPV on the market. This was a vehicle that revolutionized the segment, offering a spacious and versatile cabin with innovative features and a family-friendly design. The Mégane Scénic was an instant hit, selling over 2.8 million units in its first generation.
The Scenic name continued to evolve over the years, with four more generations of models, each with its own improvements and refinements. The Scenic became one of Renault’s best-selling vehicles, with over 7 million units sold worldwide. It also won several awards, including the Car of the Year 1997, the first MPV to do so.
The Transition to Electric
In 2020, Renault announced that it would transform the Scenic from an internal combustion engine MPV into a full-electric SUV, as part of its Renaulution strategic plan. This plan aimed to make Renault a leader in electrification by offering a range of affordable and attractive electric vehicles for different segments and markets. The Scenic E-Tech electric was one of the key products of this plan, representing Renault’s vision for the future of mobility.
The Renault Scenic E-Tech electric was developed on the AmpR Medium platform, a dedicated electric vehicle platform that Renault shares with Nissan and Mitsubishi. This platform allows for a high level of flexibility, efficiency, and a lower environmental footprint. The Scenic E-Tech electric is assembled at the ElectriCity plant in Douai, France, the largest and most advanced electric vehicle production site in Europe.
The Features of Scenic E-Tech Electric
The Scenic E-Tech electric is a vehicle that combines electric modernity, useful technologies, and a more sustainable design. Here are some of the main features that make it stand out from the crowd:
- Range: The Scenic E-Tech electric boasts a record-breaking range of up to 625 km (WLTP), thanks to its high-capacity 100 kWh battery. This means that you can drive for long distances without worrying about charging, or enjoy the freedom of exploring new places. The Scenic E-Tech electric also supports fast charging, allowing you to recharge up to 80% of the battery in just 40 minutes.
- Performance: The Scenic E-Tech electric delivers a smooth and powerful driving experience, with 290 hp and 450 Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 km/h. It also offers a choice of three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, to suit your preferences and driving conditions. The Scenic E-Tech electric also features a regenerative braking system, which recovers energy and extends the range.
- Space: The Scenic E-Tech electric offers a generous and inviting interior space, with a roomy trunk of 580 liters and a modular layout that can accommodate up to seven passengers. The Scenic E-Tech electric also has a flat floor, thanks to the absence of a transmission tunnel, which creates more legroom and comfort. The Scenic E-Tech electric also has a large panoramic sunroof called Solarbay, which lets in natural light and enhances the sense of spaciousness.
- Technology: The Scenic E-Tech Electric is equipped with the latest technology and connectivity features to make your life easier and safer. It has a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system called OpenR Link, which integrates Google systems such as Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play. It also has a wireless smartphone charger, a head-up display, and a premium Bose sound system. The Scenic E-Tech electric also has a range of advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot warning, and 360-degree camera.
- Design: The Scenic E-Tech electric has a distinctive and dynamic design, with a sleek and aerodynamic silhouette, a bold front grille, and LED headlights. It also has a two-tone color scheme, with a contrasting roof and pillars, and a choice of 10 body colors and four roof colors. The Scenic E-Tech electric also has 19-inch alloy wheels and a signature E-Tech badge on the tailgate. The Scenic E-Tech electric is also more sustainable, with recycled materials used for the seats, dashboard, and door panels.
