The Renault Zoe I R75 44.1 kWh represents Renault’s initial foray into the mass-market all-electric vehicle segment. Produced from 2017 to 2019, this subcompact hatchback was primarily aimed at the European market, where it quickly became one of the best-selling electric cars. While not officially sold in the United States, the Zoe is significant as an early example of a practical, affordable electric vehicle designed for urban commuting and daily use. It played a crucial role in demonstrating the viability of electric mobility to a wider audience and paved the way for subsequent EV models from Renault and other manufacturers.
Renault Zoe I R75 44.1 kWh: An Overview
The Zoe I, specifically the R75 variant with its 44.1 kWh battery pack, offered a compelling combination of range, practicality, and affordability. It was designed as a five-door hatchback, providing seating for five passengers and a reasonably sized cargo area. The “R75” designation refers to the motor’s power output – 77 horsepower – and was a key trim level within the first generation Zoe lineup. The vehicle’s focus was on providing a zero-emission driving experience for city dwellers, with a range sufficient for most daily commutes and errands.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Zoe I R75 is powered by a single electric motor located at the front axle, delivering 77 horsepower at 2600-9000 rpm and 210 Nm (154.89 lb.-ft.) of torque between 210-2600 rpm. This power is transmitted to the front wheels via a single-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 14.7 seconds, and 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is achieved in 15.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 83.89 mph (135 km/h). The weight-to-power ratio is 19.2 kg/Hp, or 52 Hp/tonne, while the weight-to-torque ratio is 7 kg/Nm, or 141.9 Nm/tonne. The powertrain is designed for efficiency and smooth, quiet operation, prioritizing usability over outright performance.
Design & Features
The Zoe I features a conventional hatchback body style, designed to maximize interior space and practicality. Its dimensions are 4084 mm (160.79 in.) in length, 1730 mm (68.11 in.) in width, and 1562 mm (61.5 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2588 mm (101.89 in.). The interior is designed with a focus on functionality and user-friendliness, featuring a relatively minimalist dashboard layout and comfortable seating. Key features include ABS (Anti-lock braking system), electric power steering, and a range of safety systems designed to meet European safety standards. Trunk space ranges from 338 liters (11.94 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1225 liters (43.26 cu. ft.) with the seats folded down. The battery pack is located under the floor, contributing to a low center of gravity and maximizing interior space.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Zoe |
| Generation | Zoe I |
| Type (Engine) | R75 44.1 kWh (77 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 83.89 mph (135 km/h) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 19.2 kg/Hp, 52 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm, 141.9 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 44.1 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 41 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 400 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 305 kg (672.41 lbs.) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 367-403 km (228.04 – 250.41 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 13.3 kWh/100 km (21.4 kWh/100 mi) |
| MPGe | 157 |
| km/kWh | 7.5 |
| mi/kWh | 4.7 |
| Electric motor power | 77 Hp @ 2600-9000 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque | 210 Nm (154.89 lb.-ft.) @ 210-2600 rpm |
| Electric motor location | Front axle, Transverse |
| System power | 77 Hp @ 2600-9000 rpm |
| System torque | 210 Nm (154.89 lb.-ft.) @ 210-2600 rpm |
| Kerb Weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1966 kg (4334.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 486 kg (1071.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 338 l (11.94 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1225 l (43.26 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4084 mm (160.79 in.) |
| Width | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1945 mm (76.57 in.) |
| Height | 1562 mm (61.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2588 mm (101.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1511 mm (59.49 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Front overhang | 839 mm (33.03 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 657 mm (25.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.56 m (34.65 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 258 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 228.6 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15; 195/55 R16; 205/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
The Renault Zoe I R75 44.1 kWh, while not available in the US market, remains a significant vehicle in the history of electric mobility. Its success in Europe demonstrated the growing demand for practical and affordable electric cars, and it helped to accelerate the adoption of EV technology worldwide. It served as a foundational model for Renault’s subsequent electric vehicle offerings and continues to be recognized as a pioneering vehicle in the EV landscape.
