Renault SA (Euronext:RNO) has released its first details and pictures of its future electric van, which will be marketed in 2011. The Be-Bop van is based on the Kangoo. It can carry four passengers. The van is powered by a 60-horsepower electric motor using a lithium-ion battery developed in-house by the Renault Nissan Alliance. The van is expected to have a maximum range of 160 kilometers on a single charge of its 15kWh battery pack.
The Be-Bop will have a permanent battery pack that will not suit the rapid battery replacement system that underpins Better Place's business model. Renault will offer two recharging solutions: via the electricity grid, using normal 220-volt plug-ins, which will take 8-10 hours; and rapid recharging from industrial 400-volt plug-ins, which will take about 30 minutes.
So far as is known, the Be-Bop will not be marketed in Israel, because its battery pack is not suitable for Israel's climate. Nor is it clear if Israel's electricity grid can support the rapid recharging system. It is believed that Better Place's exclusive import contract with the Renault Nissan Alliance only applies to the Renault Megane sedan car, which will support Better Place's battery replacement system.
Meanwhile, Ford Motor Co. (NYSE: F) has announced that it will market an electric version of the Ford Focus in 2011.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on May 7, 2009
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