The Renault Kangoo II Express Maxi Grand Volume Z.E. 33 kWh, produced from 2017 to 2021, represents Renault’s foray into the electric light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment. This variant, boasting a 60 horsepower electric motor, was specifically designed for urban delivery and commercial use, prioritizing practicality and low running costs over outright performance. It builds upon the established Kangoo II platform (introduced in 2008), benefiting from the 2013 facelift which brought styling updates and improved interior features. The “Z.E.” designation signifies Renault’s commitment to zero-emission vehicles, and this Kangoo served as a key model in their early electric vehicle lineup, primarily targeted at the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Kangoo |
| Generation | Kangoo II Express Maxi Grand Volume (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | Z.E. 33 kWh (60 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 22.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 22.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 21.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 130 km/h (80.78 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 25.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm |
| Gross battery capacity | 33 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 31 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 400 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 255 kg (562.18 lbs) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 270 km (167.77 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 15.2 kWh/100 km (24.46 kWh/100 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 60 Hp @ 12000 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque | 225 Nm @ 225-1870 rpm (165.95 lb.-ft. @ 225-1870 rpm) |
| Electric motor model/code | 5AQ 60 |
| Electric motor location | Front axle, Transverse |
| System power | 60 Hp @ 12000 rpm |
| System torque | 225 Nm @ 225-1870 rpm (165.95 lb.-ft. @ 225-1870 rpm) |
| Kerb Weight | 1510 kg (3328.98 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2190 kg (4828.12 lbs) |
| Max load | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 4000 l (141.26 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4600 l (162.45 cu. ft.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 322 kg (709.89 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 322 kg (709.89 lbs) |
| Length | 4666 mm (183.7 in) |
| Width | 1829 mm (72.01 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 2138 mm (84.17 in) |
| Height | 1836 mm (72.28 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3081 mm (121.3 in) |
| Front track | 1521 mm (59.88 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1533 mm (60.35 in) |
| Front overhang | 875 mm (34.45 in) |
| Rear overhang | 710 mm (27.95 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 187 mm (7.36 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 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 |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 280×24 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 274×11 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Kangoo Z.E. is powered by a 60 horsepower (44 kW) electric motor, designated 5AQ 60, producing 225 Nm (165.95 lb-ft) of torque. This motor is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle and drives the front wheels. The motor draws power from a 33 kWh lithium-ion battery pack located under the vehicle floor, contributing to a low center of gravity. The battery pack operates at 400 volts. The single-speed automatic transmission simplifies operation, delivering instant torque characteristic of electric motors. The charging port location is not publicly available. Renault utilized a sophisticated battery thermal management system to maintain optimal battery temperature, crucial for longevity and performance. The motor controller manages the power flow between the battery and the motor, optimizing efficiency and providing regenerative braking capabilities.
Driving Characteristics
The 60 hp output and single-speed automatic transmission result in a driving experience focused on practicality rather than performance. Acceleration is modest, with a 0-60 mph time of around 21.2 seconds. The Kangoo Z.E. excels in stop-and-go city traffic, where the instant torque of the electric motor provides responsive acceleration. The single gear ratio means there’s no gear shifting, simplifying the driving experience. Top speed is limited to 80.78 mph (130 km/h). Compared to the petrol or diesel Kangoo variants, the Z.E. offers a quieter and smoother ride, with significantly reduced vibrations. However, the limited range (270 km / 167.77 miles) and longer refueling (charging) times are trade-offs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Kangoo II Express Maxi Grand Volume Z.E. was primarily aimed at commercial users, so the trim levels were relatively basic. Standard equipment typically included power steering, ABS, a driver’s airbag, and a basic audio system. The interior was functional and durable, with hard-wearing plastics and easy-to-clean surfaces. The Maxi Grand Volume configuration offered a substantial cargo capacity of 4000-4600 liters (141.26 – 162.45 cu. ft.). Optional extras included air conditioning, a passenger airbag, rear parking sensors, and a navigation system. Upholstery was typically a durable cloth material.
Chassis & Braking
The Kangoo Z.E. utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs (280×24 mm), while the rear brakes are solid discs (274×11 mm). ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance. The vehicle’s relatively high weight (1510 kg / 3328.98 lbs) due to the battery pack impacts handling, making it less agile than lighter Kangoo variants.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kangoo Z.E. was generally well-received by critics as a practical and cost-effective solution for urban deliveries. Its low running costs (due to electricity being cheaper than fuel) and zero emissions were key selling points. However, the limited range and relatively slow charging times were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to the petrol and diesel Kangoo models, the Z.E. offered a different proposition – prioritizing environmental friendliness and low operating costs over performance and range. Fuel economy is rated at 15.2 kWh/100 km (24.46 kWh/100 mi) or 138 MPGe.
Legacy
The Renault Kangoo Z.E. played a significant role in establishing Renault as a pioneer in the electric LCV market. While early electric vehicles faced challenges with range and charging infrastructure, the Kangoo Z.E. demonstrated the viability of electric power for commercial applications. The powertrain, while not known for exceptional longevity issues, requires careful battery management to maximize lifespan. On the used market, these vehicles represent an affordable entry point into electric vehicle ownership, but potential buyers should carefully assess the battery health and remaining range. The Kangoo Z.E. paved the way for Renault’s subsequent generations of electric vans and continues to be a relevant model in the used commercial vehicle sector.
