Renault unveiled at the IAA Mobility the new Mégane E-Tech Electric, a raised, zero-emission hatchback sedan built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s new CMF-EV native electric platform. The platform features a reduced engine bay, as the components of the electric motors are more compact in size than those of the heat engines. Together with the longer wheelbase and wheels positioned at the four corners of the vehicle, this has allowed the designers led by Gilles Vidal to create a new exterior design, more roominess and more interior space.
With its extended wheelbase (2.70 m for a total length of 4.21 m) and reduced overhangs, the Mégane E-Tech Electric has unprecedented proportions. The presence of features that evoke the world of crossovers conveys an idea of robustness: large 20″ wheels, protections at the bottom of the doors and wheel arches, and a raised body beltline. The sloping roof, wider track and standard flush door handles, on the other hand, evoke the world of coupés. Finally, the low height, roominess and volume of the boot refer to the world of traditional C-segment saloons.
The designers worked hard on the lighting. At the front, the daytime running lights seem to emerge from the headlights and run up to the side air intakes of the bumper. At the rear, laser-cut micro-optic filaments form two striated weaves that create a filigree 3D effect. All versions of the New Mégane E-TECH Electric are fitted with handles that are flush with the bodywork. When the driver or front seat passenger approaches to open the door, and when the vehicle is not locked, the handles, concealed in the bodywork, are automatically released by an electrical system. An element that contributes to a smooth and aerodynamic profile.
The interiors are also all new. The star of the show is OpenR, the two-display system arranged in an inverted L shape heralded by the TreZor (2016), Symbioz (2017) and Morphoz (2019) concept cars, comprising the digital driver display on the dashboard and the multimedia display on the centre console. The displays are 12.3 and 12 inches. The OpenR Link multimedia system is based on Android OS in its dedicated automotive version (Android Automotive). Developed by Google, it is an open source software that is always up to date. The designers also wanted to go beyond the traditional materials and colours. The dashboard is covered in fabric in the entry-level versions, replaced by TEP (leather effect) in the top-of-the-range versions. The upper profile of the dashboard and the upper fascia of the interior door panels are covered in Alcantara in the core versions and in Nuo decorative wood in the top-of-the-range versions.
