There are a few people out there who will buy their dream car, for cash, and then drive it for years, until it cannot be driven any further. For the other 95% of us, there is buying on a loan of some description or leasing. With both of these, a major factor in the price you pay, will be the expected residual value. Often, the auto manufacturer will subsidise the lease or purchase price, based on the likely residual value. Something which the popular diesel makers are feeling in the pocket right now. WhichEV checks Renault's claims for the new Zoe.
Renault are the first to admit, that the increase in how many EVs are being bought, has already had a big impact on the residual values. Desire for electric vehicles is constantly being driven up and that is helping with second hand (or buy-back) values.
The new Zoe has been given a complete facelift , inside and out. The new 52kWh battery claims a 245 mile range (WLTP) and it supports the latest 50kW DC rapid charging technology.
The interior benefits from the addition of a 10″ driver instrument display panel as well as an Easy-Link infotainment system with 9.3″screen as standard on the GT-line (optional upgrade to Iconic models).
The internal upholstery is made entirely from recycled materials.
All retail orders (i.e. from an authorised main dealer), come with a free, fully installed 7kWh charger for your home.
Price has long been an issue with the take-up of electric vehicles, so Renault has been more aggressive on price. The lengthily named Renault Zoe Play R110 Z.E.50 has a list price of £29,170. If you get a full grant of £3,500, then that price comes down to £25,670. Renault is encouraging buyers to take advantage of a 0% finance dal over two years, which works out to £269 per month after an initial payment of £2,995 and a final final value of £15,657.
So the upshot of an increase in residual value to around 42%, is that the car will be easier to purchase up front – and easier for a dealer to resell later. The downside is that if you decided to keep the car after the finance period, you will need to pay more to keep it. Swings and roundabouts comes to mind.
The Renault Clio was the best selling French car in history. The Zoe feels like a natural successor in the EV era. We're not sure if the new model is enough for us to launch into a “Nicole”, “Papa” routine, but it's good to know that the market is booming while hearts and minds are being changed.