Electric Cars: The Basics
For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles:
Electric Cars: Benefits Of Electric Driving: Top 5
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
What Is Regenerative Braking: The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
Different Type Of Electric Vehicles (EVs): An Introduction
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
Benefits Of Green Energy: A Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
EV Charging Cables: A Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
How Much Does It Cost To Charge An Electric Car At Home: The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read MoreSign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter
The All-Electric Renault 5 E-Tech Hatchback
Groupe Renault (Renault Group/ Renault S.A.), is a leading player in the global automotive sector. The company was established in 1899 and has over the course of its history, manufactured varied vehicles, to include: trucks, tractors, buses and even tanks! Renault has been part of the global Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance since 1999 (previously, Renault-Nissan Alliance). The partnership makes the partnership the 3rd largest automotive group in the world after Volkswagen and Toyota. Renault offers both, battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) for passenger cars and commercial electric vehicles. The portfolio includes:
- All-electric Renault TWIZY
- All-electric Renault ZOE E-TECH
- All-electric Renault ZOE Van E-TECH
- All-electric Renault Megane E-TECH
- All-electric Renault Scenic E-TECH
- All-electric Renault 5 E-TECH
- All-electric Renault Kangoo E-TECH
- All-electric Renault Master E-TECH
- Renault Rafale E-Tech Plug-In Hybrid
- Renault Captur E-TECH Plug-In Hybrid
- Renault Megane E-TECH Plug-In Hybrid
- Renault Megane Sport Tourer E-TECH Plug-In Hybrid
This is not the first time, nor the last time, that an automotive manufacturer resurrects a model nameplate from the archives of its history. The best-selling Renault 5 hatchback is just another example. The conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) Renault 5 hatchback supermini became France’s most popular car, with over 5.5 million units sold between 1972 to 1985. Interestingly, this model was also available in an electric version as far back as 1974!
Therefore, it is fitting that the Renault 5 model nameplate has been given a renaissance in the form of a modern pure electric hatchback. The all-electric Renault 5 (B-segment) was first previewed as a concept car in 2021, with the EV officially unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in early 2024. The Renault 5 has been developed on the EV-native AmpR Small platform, also to be used by other small cars like the all-electric Renault 4. The production Renault 5 has retained much from the concept car! The Renault 5 EV is being assembled in Douai, France.
The compact Renault 5 replaces the best-selling all-electric Renault Zoe. In terms of size, the Renault 5 electric is 3.92m long and 1.49m tall. In comparison, the Zoe EV is 4.08m long and 1.56m tall. According to Renault, the compact 5 city electric car is positioned between the Clio II and Clio III. The Renault 5 is a five-door EV to enhance its practicality. The previous internal combustion engine (ICE) Renault 5 was available as both a 3-door and 5-door variant.
We are now witnessing a growing trend of compact battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), in particular, targeted at the urban driver. Another example is the all-electric Dacia Spring hatchback with a 3.7m length and 1.48m height. Do keep in mind, the smaller a vehicle, the lower the life-cycle emissions, the lower its impact on the environment. We are e-zoomed encourage drivers to opt for smaller cars, in particular, zero-tailpipe emission electric cars. Best choice for improving air quality and lowering your impact on the environment.
The Renault 5 electric supermini is available in two EV battery sizes: 40 kWh (400V) / 52 kWh (400V). According to the manufacturer, the entry-level 40kWh variant can deliver up to 300 km (WLTP) on a full charge, while the larger 52 kWh variant can deliver up to 410 km (WLTP). Even adjusting for real-world driving conditions, both variant offer ample day-to-day driving practicality. For the 40 kWh expect up to 260 km and for the 52 kWh up to 360 km.
Though it maybe tempting to get the larger EV battery option, we at e-zoomed suggest assessing very carefully if you really need the larger EV battery. Do keep in mind that most driving needs are short commutes i.e. to the office, school run, local high street, gym etc. In reality, we do not travel long distances as much as we think we do! Of course, if you are travelling long distance on a regular basis, the larger EV battery option is more appropriate.
The Renault 5 EV incorporates a 11 kW AC onboard AC charger as standard. Perfect for those with access to three-phase EV charging at home, work or public EV charging destinations. At 11 kW AC, the EV can be charged 15%-80% in 3 hrs 13 mins. At 7.4 kW AC (single-phase EV charging) it will take 5 hrs 11 mins (15%-80%). For DC rapid charging, the EV can be charged up to 80% in 30 mins. The entry-level offers up to 80 kW DC, while the top variant offers up to 100 kW DC. Adequate, given the size of the EV battery and the urban demographic target market.
For home charging we recommend the use of a smart EV charger which is solar compatible. We at e-zoomed also encourage EV owners to install on-site (home or business) solar PV and battery storage. It is a fantastic way to leverage the potential for lower cost of ownership of an electric car, and also achieve ‘well-to-wheel’ zero-tailpipe emissions. We at e-zoomed offer a number of fantastic solar PV and battery storage bundle offers!
All variants of the Renault 5 family electric car are available only as a front-wheel drive (FWD). The entry-level 40 kWh Renault 5 can achieve 0-100 km/h in 9.0 seconds (maximum power: 120 HP/ torque: 225 Nm). The 52 kWh variant can achieve 0-100 km/h in 8.0 seconds (maximum power: 150 HP/ torque: 245 Nm). The top speed of the EV is 150 km/h. The 40 kWh variant is more efficient (Electric Energy Consumption: kWh/ 100km: 14.5), given the lower weight of the onboard EV battery (237 kg). The 52 kWh EV battery weighs 297 kg. To further increase the efficiency of the electric vehicle (EV) the manufacturer offers a heat pump as standard. The heat pump works in conjunction with the 8 kW HVCH (high voltage coolant heater) system to reduce energy consumption.
The exterior styling does incorporate themes from the original Renault 5, albeit, with a modern twist. The company refers to it as ‘retro-futuristic’. As an example the air vent on the bonnet has been transformed to an EV battery state-of-charge level indicator. When fully charged it will display the number ‘5’. Clever and practical! The side profile too has similarities with the conventional 5-door Renault 5 hatchback. The Renault 5 EV is available in fantastic ‘pop colours’. We love the pop green! For those keen on a more subtle appearance, the arctic white and diamond black should do just fine!
The interior again has commonality with the conventional R5. As an example, the pattern of the headlining on the inside is similar to the previous R5. Though the family R5 electric car offers decent practicality in the cabin, for taller adults, the rear seats will be a squeeze (headroom and legroom). The front seats are far more accommodating! The EV does not incorporate a frunk. The available boot space is 326 L. With the rear seats folded down, it is up to 1,106 L. The interior cabin compartments offer up to 19 L of storage capacity. As is the trend now, the Renault has incorporated sustainable materials for the interior, to include, 100% recycled plastic (PET) water bottles and 100% recycled fabric.
The EV offers a host of technology and equipment as standard. Safety aids include: driver attention alert, intelligent speed assistance (inc. sign recognition & speed alert), emergency lane keeping assist, oncoming traffic & road edge detection, rear park assist, vehicle sound for pedestrians, safe front stopping distance warning, emergency brake assist, vehicle dynamic control + hill start assist, active emergency braking system: urban, pedestrian & cyclist and more. The Renault 5 BEV has yet to be awarded the Euro NCAP Safety Rating.
Also on offer is vehicle-to-grid (V2G) bi-directional charger functionality as standard. Excellent, as in due course, V2G will become the norm for EVs. Bi-directional capability allows the EV owner to charge other devices (laptop, electric bike etc) with V2L functionality, and also sell surplus energy back to the grid during times of peak demand. Also as standard are: 7″ digital driver information display and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The family city electric car certainly offers value for money.
Bottom-line, electric driving is good for the environment and the wallet!
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Value for money | DC charging capability limited to 100 kW DC |
| Practical electric range/ 11 kW AC onboard charger as standard | No Frunk |
| Heat pump as standard/ V2G/ V2L functionality as standard | Space not as good as some competitors |
Gallery
The All-Electric Renault 5 E-Tech Hatchback (credit: Renault)
| At A Glance | |
|---|---|
| EV Type: | Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV) |
| Body Type: | Hatchback |
| Engine: | Electric |
| Available In Ireland: | Yes |
| Variants (2 Options) |
|---|
| Renault 5 E-Tech 120 hp (from € N/A) |
| Renault 5 E-Tech 150 hp (from € N/A) |
| EV Battery & Emissions | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Type: | Lithium-ion |
| EV Battery Capacity: | Available in two battery sizes: 40 kWh (237 kg)/ 52 kWh (297 kg) |
| Charging: | 80 – 100 kW DC Rapid Charging (15%-80%: 30 mins). Onboard AC charger: 11 kW AC (15%-80%: 3 hrs 13 mins) |
| Charge Port: | Type 2 |
| EV Cable Type: | Type 2 |
| Tailpipe Emissions: | 0g (CO2/km) |
| EV Battery Warranty: | 8 years or 160,000 km |
| Average Cost Of Residential Charging | |
|---|---|
| Battery net capacity: 16.7 kWh | € 4.00 |
| Battery net capacity: 30.0 kWh | € 7.19 |
| Battery net capacity: 39.2 kWh | € 9.39 |
| Battery net capacity: 45.0 kWh | € 10.78 |
| Battery net capacity: 50.0 kWh | € 11.98 |
| Battery net capacity: 64.0 kWh | € 15.34 |
| Battery net capacity: 71.0 kWh | € 17.01 |
| Battery net capacity: 77.0 kWh | € 18.45 |
| Battery net capacity: 90.0 kWh | € 21.57 |
| Battery net capacity: 100.0 kWh | € 23.97 |
- Note 1: The average cost of residential electricity in Ireland varies depending on the region, supplier and type of energy used. An average for Ireland is 23.97 cents/kWh.
- Note 2: Not all EV manufactures make available the data on net EV battery capacity, and in a number of instances the EV battery capacity advertised, does not state if it is gross or net capacity. In general, usable EV battery capacity is between 85% to 95% of the gross available capacity.
| Charging Times (Overview) | |
|---|---|
| Slow charging AC (3 kW – 3.6 kW): | 6 – 12 hours (dependent on size of EV battery & SOC) |
| Fast charging AC (7 kW – 22 kW): | 3 – 8 hours (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Rapid charging AC (43 kW): | 0-80%: 20 mins to 60 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Rapid charging DC (50 kW+): | 0-80%: 20 mins to 60 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Ultra rapid charging DC (150 kW+): | 0-80% : 20 mins to 40 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Tesla Supercharger (120 kW – 250 kW): | 0-80%: up to 25 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
- Note 1: SoC: state of charge
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Height (mm): | 1498 |
| Width (mm): | 1774 |
| Length (mm): | 3922 |
| Wheelbase (mm): | 2540 |
| Turning Circle (m): | 10.3 |
| Boot Space (L): | 326 (rear seats folded down: 1,106 L) |
| Frunk (L): | N/A |
| EV40 120 hp | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Capacity: | 40 kWh |
| Pure Electric Range (WLTP): | 300 km |
| Electric Energy Consumption (kWh/100km): | 14.5 |
| Charging: | 80 kW DC Rapid Charging (15%-80%: 30 mins). Onboard AC charger: 11 kW AC (15%-80%: 3 hrs 13 mins)/ 7.4 kW AC (15%-80%: 5 hrs 11 mins) |
| Top Speed: | 150 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h: | 9.0 seconds |
| Drive: | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| Electric Motor (kW): | 90 |
| Max Power (hp): | 120 |
| Torque (Nm): | 225 |
| Transmission: | Automatic |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Gross Weight (kg): | 1,865 |
| Towing Capacity (Braked/Unbraked)/ (kg): | 500/ 500 |
| Colours: | 5 |
| Euro NCAP Safety Rating: | N/A |
| EV52 150 hp | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Capacity: | 52 kWh |
| Pure Electric Range (WLTP): | 410 km |
| Electric Energy Consumption (kWh/100km): | 14.9 |
| Charging: | 100 kW DC Rapid Charging (15%-80%: 30 mins). Onboard AC charger: 11 kW AC (15%-80%: 3 hrs 13 mins)/ 7.4 kW AC (15%-80%: 5 hrs 11 mins) |
| Top Speed: | 150 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h: | 8.0 seconds |
| Drive: | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| Electric Motor (kW): | 110 |
| Max Power (hp): | 150 |
| Torque (Nm): | 245 |
| Transmission: | Automatic |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Gross Weight (kg): | 1,920 |
| Towing Capacity (Braked/Unbraked)/ (kg): | 500/ 500 |
| Colours: | 5 |
| Euro NCAP Safety Rating: | N/A |
Electric Vehicles (EVs): Top 5 Jargons
There is no doubt, in that, for those new to electric driving, the terminology can be both daunting and confusing. We have chosen the top 5 jargons to help you get more familiar with electric vehicles (EVs)!
| Top 5 Jargons : Electric Vehicles (EVs) | |
|---|---|
| EV (Electric Vehicle) | An EV is any vehicle that uses ‘electricity’ or an ‘electric motor’ to power the vehicle. The electric motor derives its power from a rechargeable battery or batteries. In general, EVs are less dependent on petrol or diesel as fuel, and in the case of pure electric cars, not dependent at all, on petrol/diesel for propulsion. EVs encompass all types of electric vehicles, to include Battery-Electric Vehicles (BEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), Extended Range Electric Vehicles (E-REVs) and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs). |
| Regenerative Braking | Driving at all times requires braking. However, on more densely populated roads, the frequency and intensity of braking increases, reducing the efficiency of the vehicle. Regenerative braking is the process of capturing energy, otherwise wasted during braking. According to the rules of physics, energy cannot be destroyed, instead it simply transfers from one state to another. The same principle applies to braking. The kinetic energy that propels a car forward is usually displaced or wasted as heat. Regenerative braking captures this kinetic energy, that in turn recharges an onboard EV battery, increasing both efficiency and electric range. Electric cars like Toyota Prius PHEV, Jaguar I-PACE BEV and Tesla Model 3 BEV use regenerative braking to increase efficiency and electric range. |
| Torque | Torque (Nm) is the measure of the force that can cause an object to rotate about an axis. Torque is a key factor in determining acceleration of a vehicle and is defined as the engines rotational speed. Torque is most commonly defined as the force required to twist an object. For example, a wrench being used. The heavier a car, the more important is the role of torque i.e. the vehicle needs more rotational force to help it accelerate faster. |
| WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) | In a bid to continue to improve the quality of data released by automotive manufacturers (OEMs), on efficiency, range and CO2 emissions, Europe has introduced the WLTP testing procedure. WLTP is seen as a significant improvement over the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) testing standard designed in the 1980s. In general, WLTP data is more realistic compared to NEDC! WLTP has been developed with the aim of becoming a global standard, so that cars can be easily compared between regions. However, real world driving data will still differ from WLTP data. As an example, the real world electric range of an electric car can be significantly lower than the stated WLTP range, depending on driving style, driving conditions, weather, onboard services used and more! |
| ULEVs (Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles) | An ultra low emission vehicle is any vehicle that emits less than 75g of CO2/km and is capable of operating with zero-tailpipe emissions for at least 10 miles. In general, ULEVs release emissions that are at least 50% lower than petrol and diesel cars, by using low carbon technologies. ULEVs include all types of electric vehicles: BEVs, PHEVs, E-REVs etc. and are a key solution in improving air quality. There are currently numerous ULEVs available, to include e-cars, e-vans, e-motorcycles, e-mopeds and e-taxis. Examples include: Nissan Leaf, BMW i3, MINI Countryman PHEV and Renault Kangoo ZE. |
While e-zoomed uses reasonable efforts to provide accurate and up-to-date information, some of the information provided is gathered from third parties and has not been independently verified by e-zoomed. While the information from the third party sources is believed to be reliable, no warranty, express or implied, is made by e-zoomed regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information. This disclaimer applies to both isolated and aggregate uses of this information.
Featured Articles
The All-Electric Ford Capri SUV: The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
The All-Electric Kia EV3 SUV: The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
What Is Battery Storage? What Are The Benefits Of An Energy Storage System?
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read MoreBenefits Of Green Energy: A Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
The All-Electric Dacia Spring (Hatchback): The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read MoreFeatured Products
-
Best-In-Class Home Solar Bundle Offer (440W Trina Solar 8 Panels + Sungrow Hybrid Inverter 3.0 kW): price includes product supply only – free delivery
Original price was: €3,155.95.€3,075.95Current price is: €3,075.95. (Including VAT)Brand:SungrowTrinaSolarCategory:Solar -
Best-In-Class Home Solar Bundle Offer (440W Trina Solar 8 Panels + Sungrow Battery Storage 6.4 kWh + Sungrow Hybrid Inverter 3.0 kW): price includes product supply only – free delivery
Original price was: €6,115.95.€5,999.95Current price is: €5,999.95. (Including VAT)Brand:SungrowTrinaSolarCategory:Solar -
Bundle Offer: Sungrow Home Battery Storage (6.4 kWh) + Sungrow Hybrid Inverter (5 KW/ Single-Phase): price includes product only – Free delivery
Original price was: €4,549.95.€4,050.95Current price is: €4,050.95. (Including VAT)Brand:SungrowCategory:Battery Storage -
Untethered Ohme Home EV Charger (7kW): price includes product only – free delivery
Original price was: €780.95.€685.95Current price is: €685.95. (Including VAT)Brand:OhmeCategory:EV Charging PointsCable:Untethered -
Custom-Made 1-Phase EV Charging Cable Type 2 to Type 2 (2m to 45m, 7.4 kW) – Made In Europe – Free Delivery
€219.95 – €645.95 (Including VAT)Category:EV Charging CablesType:Type 2Length (m):5 m10 m6 m15 m20 m2 m25 m30 m35 m40 m45 m3 m7 m8 m12 m18 m22 mCurrent (amp):32 ampPhase:Single Phase (7.4kW)This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
