The all-new Renault Megane E-Tech Electric will launch Down Under “sometime in 2023”.
A spokesperson for the brand’s local distributor told CarExpert the all-electric crossover will arrive during the course of next year, “but nothing yet on price, spec, battery or anything else”.
Revealed at the Munich motor show in 2021, the Renault Megane E-Tech Electric is based on the same CMF-EV modular platform as the upcoming Nissan Ariya. This new electric architecture will replace the current EV platform used by the Nissan Leaf.
Overseas models shown
It measures 4199mm long and 1768-1783mm wide with a 2685mm wheelbase, making it 165mm shorter in length and up to 107mm slimmer than the current Megane R.S. hatchback. Its dedicated EV platform should afford more interior space though – the wheelbase on the E-Tech is 15mm longer, for reference.
The Megane E-Tech Electric is also relatively lightweight at around 1600kg depending on variant – making it around 400kg lighter than a Tesla Model Y or Volkswagen ID.4.
European models will offer a pair of battery packs at launch: a base 40kWh variant and longer-range 60kWh version. The former has a projected driving range of 300km, while the latter should be good for around 470km.
Two drivetrain variants will be offered as well; a 96kW/250Nm model and a 165kW/300Nm variant, both with front-wheel drive. With the more powerful electric motor, the Megane E-Tech Electric can accelerate from 0 to 100 in 7.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 160km/h.
As for charging, all models support up to 22kW AC charging, with up to 130kW DC fast-charging supported by all but the very base variant – 85kW fast-charging support is an option on the 40kWh model in Europe.
Using a public DC fast charger, the 40kWh Megane E-Tech can be fully recharged in 1 hour, while the faster 130kW rate for the 60kWh version means a full charge can be completed in around 1 hour 14 minutes.
Inside, the Megane E-Tech Electric will offer a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster as well as a 12-inch portrait-oriented central infotainment touchscreen, while “unusual and recycled materials” will feature inspired by home furniture.
A range of upholsteries and trims are offered in Europe depending on variant, including textile, Alcantara, and faux leather. In entry-level and mid-spec cars in the European market, the seat upholstery is made from 100 per cent recycled materials.
There will also be ‘Nuo’ wood inserts in high-grade models, which is made from real wood. Thin lime timber veneer is bonded to a cotton textile backing using an environmentally friendly adhesive, then lasered. It’s the first time this material has been used in a production vehicle.
More information will come to hand in the lead up to the Megane E-Tech’s launch in 2023.
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