Renault Samsung Motors SM3 Z.E. facelift unveiled, 213km EV range



Renault Samsung Motors has just unveiled its facelifted SM3 Z.E at the 2017 Daegu International Future Auto Expo in Korea. Better known as the Fluence Z.E. in other parts of the world, the battery-powered sedan now boasts increased driving range and an updated look.

The facelift exercise brought about a new front grille and bumper design, sleeker five-spoke alloy wheels, bringing the looks closer to the petrol-powered Fluence which happens to be on sale here in Malaysia. Inside, new items include digital meter cluster, door panel design and brushed aluminium trim.

Driving the SM3 Z.E. is an electric motor with 94 hp and 226 Nm of torque moving the front wheels. However, the battery capacity has been upped to 36 kWh (previously 22 kWh) without any increase in weight. The new battery pack is said to return 213 km on a single charge, 57 per cent more mileage than before.

In South Korea, the average daily commute is around 40 kilometres according to a Korean Transportation Safety Authority (KOTSA) report. This would mean that the updated SM3 Z.E. with extended driving range makes for a viable electric vehicle for the average Korean consumer.

South Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare has just purchased 1,200 of the Renault SM3 Z.E. last April and the model is a popular EV taxi in Seoul, Daegu and Jeju island.


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