Alongside its quirky new Kangoo Be Bop, Renault showed the Kangoo Be Bop ZE - a electric-powered concept of its latest mini-minivan.
A preview of its upcoming EV technology, the oddly-colored Be Bop ZE is propelled by a 70-kw electric motor, which drives the front wheels. Power for the motor, which throws down 226 Nm of torque, stems from a lithium-ion battery pack packaged in the rear of the vehicle.
The Be Bop's EV unusual looks aren't just for kicks, but actually are said to yield an ecological benefit. The paint is said to be a heat-reflective matte silver, and we're told the unusual yellow window tint keeps the interior from baking in the sun. As a result, Renault says the cabin can be kept warm or cool with less use of the Kangoo's HVAC system.
Though we doubt Renault's production EV, slated for a 2011 introduction, will be quite as wild as the Be Bop ZE, we'll look for some features - notably its powertrain - to be similar to this zany concept.