As electric hatches go, the Renault Zoe certainly is one of the better-looking models out there. It was recently given a substantive overhaul, with a sleeker new exterior design and reengineered internals.
However, word is that Renault will be launching a hotter, performance version of the hatch called Zoe RS, and we’re looking at a three-year timeline, according to an Autocar report.
Back in 2017, the French automaker unveiled the Zoe e-Sport concept, which was a 462-hp electric mega hatch that went on to receive massive public interest. That model has yet to see the light of day, and it’s not yet known if the Zoe RS will pack as much firepower as the Zoe e-Sport.
Either way, Renault’s product planning boss Ali Kassai said: “Society is changing so fast. We need to find a way to make passion of performance cars socially acceptable. I believe Renault is best placed to find that way because of our history as a leader in EVs and one of the historic players in performance cars.”
“We have been thinking about this for a long time. It will happen the day when the technology road blocks are removed. This means high performance but also sustainability of performance and making economic sense,” he added.
When asked how soon we can expect a high performance EV from renault, Kassai said: “It has to be short, because we were the leader in EVs, so we need to keep up the pace. I hope in three years.”
He added that the company wants to continue its traditional RS line for as long as feasibly possible, too. “We will not let our fan club down. As long as we can offer these cars, regulatory-wise, we will,” Kassai said.
Just as a refresher, the Renault Zoe e-Sport is powered by two electric motors, one mounted on each axle, for a total of 462 hp and 640 Nm of torque. It has a huge 450-kg battery onboard, which helps the motors propel this 1,400-kg car from zero to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds before maxing out at 209 km/h.
Upgrades include a double-wishbone suspension for all four corners, complete with four-way adjustable Ohlins dampers. The concept rides on 20-inch alloys with centre-locking wheel hubs, shod with 245/35 profile tyres. Other parts include beefier brakes, a flat floor and huge aerodynamic parts such as the rear spoiler, front intake and rear diffuser.
GALLERY: 2017 Renault Zoe e-Sport concept
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