Renault plans three electric cars for the future

Renault plans to make a splash at the 2012 Olympics in London where the automaker will have a trio of electric vehicles on display and in action at the games. The first EV from the French automaker will be an electrified Kangoo MPV that will shuttle both Olympians and spectators from event to event. Renault's second planned EV will be based on the Megane sedan and will be featured as part of the automaker's Project Better Place rollout in Israel. Lastly, a small city car that seats five occupants is planned on a brand new platform that's not shared with any other models.

Electric vehicle charging is one current (ha ha) sticking point that needs to be addressed before we're driving with electrons, and Renault has plans on that front as well. Quick charging stations would be set up in and around the London area for the car's rollout and these could be replicated anywhere EVs are planned. Alternatively, special stations could be created that are equipped to swap out a vehicle's battery in just five minutes, providing at least 100 miles of range. Each EV would have a standard GPS navigation system with every charging or swapping station pre-programmed. Of course, the cars could also easily be charged at night from a normal power outlet.


[Source: Autocar]