Renault Megane E-Tech priced for Australia

RENAULT has revealed pricing and specifications for its all-new Megane E-Tech crossover, the first electric model to be sold Down Under since the Zoe light hatch and Kangoo ZE van, rebooting the Megane nameplate in new crossover format boasting bold environmental credentials.

The Megane E-Tech is now available for order at Renault dealers with deliveries slated for late this year at a starting price of $64,990 before on-road costs, in a choice of six colours, but so far only the one Techno EV60 model option has been announced for Australian customers.

Based on the Renault-Nissan CMF-EV platform, the Megane E-Tech showcases the manufacturer’s new “sensual tech” design language, with a futuristic exterior and interior inspired by “fine home furniture”.

Laser-cut detailing, flush electric door handles, and a range of LEDs around the vehicle are a nod to the high-tech design language, while inside recycled materials form a clean, texture-rich cabin.

Inside, the E-Tech features a 12.3-inch digital cluster and 9.0-inch infotainment that appears to be angled towards the driver, with 48 ambient lighting colour options.

The Megane E-Tech is powered by a single electric motor putting 160kW/300Nm through the front wheels, good for a 0-100km/h time of 7.4 seconds and driving range of 454km.

Renault says the 60kWh battery is the slimmest on the market, at 110mm, lowering the centre of gravity for a more dynamic driving experience.

In terms of fast charging potential, the Megane E-Tech can be DC-fed by chargers up to 130kW, gaining 300km of range in around 30 minutes.

The Megane E-Tech features advanced safety technology like driver drowsiness alert, smart rear-view mirror, autonomous braking with junction assist, lane-keep assist with road-edge detection, and adaptive cruise.

In the case of an accident or emergency, there is firefighter access, a QRescue QR code for quick access to system details, and an easily accessible SD switch that allows the battery to be disconnected from the high-voltage network without the need for specific tools.

The Megane E-Tech is more than 90 per cent recyclable, according to Renault, with more than 28kg of repurposed plastics and fabrics used throughout the cabin and recycled aluminium used for the panels. The electric motor also contains no rare earths.

Renault’s global target is to use 33 per cent recyclable materials in its cars by 2030, shooting for full carbon neutrality by 2040, with the Megane E-Tech setting an early benchmark.

“All-New Renault Megane E-Tech is a gamechanger,” said Renault Australia general manager, Glen Sealey.

“This is Renaulution in action: dynamic proportions, an engaging and efficient drive, impressive levels of comfort and safety, and committed actions to a sustainable future.

“We can’t wait to bring Megane E-Tech to Australia and herald a new dawn in automotive leadership.”

Renault is offering a standard five-year/100,000-kilometre warranty, as well as an eight-year/160,000-kilometre battery warranty.