French automaker Renault has announced the debut of its all-electric Megane E-Tech in Australia by the fourth quarter of 2023, as per a local news platform.
Renault Australia’s General Manager Glen Sealey noted that the brand is now more focused on “value over volume” after it experienced an economic “disaster” in 2020. That said, Renault has phased out the performance cars in its portfolio as it poured all of its energy and resources into commercial vans and SUV markets.
About the Australian Renault Megane E-Tech
Renault will offer the Megane E-Tech as a single model without optional battery and motor configurations. It will be equipped with a 60kWh battery and a 160kW electric motor. It boasts a range of 470 km (WLTP) and a torque of 300Nm.
However, its 7.4-second acceleration from 0 to 100 kph trails those of speedier all-wheel-drive competitors. Still, Renault believes that the Megane E-Tech will still be able to attract customers away from established rivals with its remarkable design and sustainable material usage.
“Megane E-Tech 100% Electric combines the dynamism of the most compact hatchbacks and the spontaneity of the sportiest. Its front 220 hp electric motor and instant torque of 300 Nm give a new meaning to the word “driving”.
Renault
Furthermore, it has a front end similar to SUVs and a small saloon body, which gives it an attractive appearance. It also has the following design details:
Notably, Renault did not apply rare earth materials in Megane E-Tech’s motors, making it greener. It will also have standard cloth seats, a 12-inch infotainment display, and a digital dashboard.
Pricing
Renault initially stated that the electric car would have a base price of over $70,000 for the Australian market. General Manager Sealey noted that there was not much flexibility in the pricing.
“It’s really what we’ve been given. It’s a very different market to what it used to be.”
Glen Sealey, Renault Australia’s General Manager
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