2010 Paris Auto Show: Renault DeZir Concept

Renault is not afraid of building weird concepts, that's for sure. Ever since the French company started its electric offensive (just have a look at the number of Zero-Emission agreements), a number of concepts have emerged with every single occasion, showing more or less innovations that might be introduced on a Renault model.

The last such concept is the DeZir model, a prototype presented back in July but displayed for the first time in front of the public at the 2010 Paris Auto Show that opened its doors to the press today.

The electric coupe uses a mid-mounted electric synchronous motor that delivers 150 hp and 226 Nm of torque and sends its power to the rear wheels via a direct drive transmission featuring a reducer and an active differential. In addition, it features a 24kWh Li-ion battery pack and on a KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) to offer a range of 100 miles (160 km). The battery can reach an 80 percent charge level in 20 minutes using Renault’s Quick Drop fast-charger.

“Under the leadership of Laurens van den Acker, Renault Design took its inspiration from the brand's new signature 'Drive the Change!' to explore the brand's styling roots and convey a more emotional dimension,” Renault said in a release.

“The 'Z' in the name DeZir is a direct reference to Renault's Z.E. signature, and several features of its design are suggestive of two qualities readily associated with electric mobility, namely advanced technology and light weight.”