What is it?

It's an electric Kangoo. However, Renault points out that the Kangoo Z.E. Concept is not just a Kangoo with an electric motor - this is a more intelligent answer. There are three ways of powering up this Kangoo: by normal charging, rapid charging or changing the battery altogether. It also has 166lb.ft of torque available from the moment you press the throttle, so this Kangoo is also said to be user friendly as well as zero emitting.

Why's it here?

The Kangoo is all part of Renault's electric future, so it forms part of the all-round offensive from the French firm to convince buyers that electricity is the fuel of the future. Like the Fluence concept, the Kangoo can be charged normally from a socket in four to eight hours, or it can have a rapid top-up charge in 20 minutes. There's also the option of swapping the flat battery for a fully charged one in just three minutes.

Show stopper or floor filler?

The technology is clever and the Kangoo Z.E. is closer to production than most electric vehicle concepts. The funky styling and concept car touches, such as the wheels and blue-tinted glass, are unlikely to draw many visitors away from the other concepts on Renault's stand.

Alisdair Suttie - 17 Sep 2009