How battery rental fosters the roll-out of electric vehicles

Renault topped the mark of 100,000 electric vehicle battery rentals in March. Since the launch of the first zero-emission (Z.E.) vehicle in late 2011, RCI Bank and Services has supported the carmaker through battery rental offers that make access to Z.E. vehicles affordable, simple, reassuring and flexible. These considerable customer benefits foster the development of eco-responsible automobility.

A pioneer in electric vehicles and the market leader in Europe, Renault chose to propose battery rental when it launched its first electric vehicle. Today, over 90% of Renault's European customers rent the battery of their Z.E. vehicle.

Renault Z.E. customers have the choice of two rental options. The first, "Z.E. Flex", is based on the pay-as-you-drive principle, whereby the price is proportionate to actual mileage. The second, "Z.E. Relax", reserved for private individuals, features unlimited mileage. The two offers help customers to manage the running costs of their ZOE in complete ease. In addition, to adapt to changes in their needs, motorists can change their fee plan whenever they like, with no charge.

The rental plan brings drivers total peace of mind through a life-time battery warranty. With RCI Bank and Services offers, customers can take to the road in full serenity thanks to the battery capacity and operation warranty and 24-7 assistance for all types of breakdown (including energy breakdowns) included in the rental contract.

Used electric vehicle sales are also simplified through the rental option. A person buying a used Renault Z.E. is guaranteed a battery in perfect condition through their rental contract. This is a win-win option for buyers and sellers.

What's more, owners and users of ZOE equipped with a 22 kWH battery will soon qualify for an upgrade to take advantage of the increased range of the Z.E. 40 battery (400 km over an NEDC cycle, or 300 km in real urban and peri-urban use) without changing vehicles.