Renault to Unveil BEV Limo Subscription Mobility
Renault’s mobility sub-brand, Mobilize, will unveil its subscription-based limousine service using a luxury BEV four-door saloon at Munich IAA Mobility 2021.
The car, Mobilize Limo, is designed specifically for taxis, private hire vehicles and fleet use and will operate in as yet unspecified cities starting in Europe. The company is a joint venture created in 2018 between Renault and Jiangling Motors Group in 2018.
After the model’s launch at the show, a fleet of 40 Mobilize Limo will then be deployed to validate the services it will offer throughout Europe starting in the second half of 2022. Aimed at the premium market, the car is 15.3ft long, 6ft wide and 4.8ft high, making it close in size to traditional D-segment vehicles and will be available in Metallic Black, Metallic Grey and Glossy White. Distinctive features, including flush door handles that pop out when the vehicle unlocks, LED headlamps, scrolling indicators and 17-inch smoke-finish lacquered alloy wheels.
Mobilize Limo comes with a high-performance 147bhp electric motor delivering 162ft-lbs of immediately available torque, claiming a 0-62mph time of 9.6 seconds and a top speed limited to 87mph. Drivers can choose between three driving modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) and intensity level for the regenerative braking can also be set to one of three options via the vehicle’s settings.
Mobilize Limo uses a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 60kWh claiming 280 miles (pending WLTP certification) between recharging sessions. The automaker claims that is enough to cover the average daily mileage of most professionals at around 150 miles per day of intensive use, with plenty remaining charge for those drivers used to covering more ground.
The car is compatible with the most common types of AC and DC charging systems, which means it can connect to all public charging stations and home wall box setups. It can also be recharged on a regular power outlet. With fast charging, the battery can topped up to around 150 miles in just 40 minutes.
Clotilde Delbos, CEO of Mobilize, said: “The first Mobilize model, Limo, is the new brand’s response to the evolution of the ride-hailing market. This offer, which combines a vehicle and flexible services, fully illustrates Mobilize’s ability to the changing needs of vehicle users. It also demonstrates a unique know-how resulting from the experience of the Renault Group in mobility services and RCI Bank and Services’ strength in financing.”
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
