Renault’s 2018 ZOE uses a brand new electric motor. The R110 motor is derived from the R90 motor, to which it is identical in both size and weight, but offers increased output of 80 kW.

Renault attributed the extra output to a combination of electrical machine- and power electronics-related innovations, but provided no further details. The new motor apparently offers the same low-speed power as the R90, thanks to its 225 Nm of torque, and even manages to reduce the ZOE’s 80-to-120 kph time by almost two seconds.

Renault’s electric motor department developed the new R110 motor in only two years. Its introduction increases the number of variants of the Renault motor to five: 44 kW, 57 kW, 60 kW, 68 kW and 80 kW versions are now offered.

Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) certification of the R110 motor is now in progress. Early estimates based on the new, more severe WLTP protocol support a real-world range figure of 300 kilometers. The new WLTP cycle, which Europe has been slowly phasing in since September, 2017, replaces the NEDC certification. Renault notes that “the WLTP protocol involves dynamometer testing, is longer [in duration], and involves a higher number of phases. Speeds are also higher and acceleration is harder.”

“Thanks to this power boost, ZOE is even more responsive and versatile when used for journeys out of town,” says Elisabeth Delval, Assistant Director of the ZOE program. In addition to being able to enjoy the pleasure of driving a ZOE, drivers will also benefit from the longest range available for a mass-market electric car.”

Source: Renault