Going with the flow

I am increasingly surprised by the reactions, especially on social media, when it comes to electric cars. Just read the various posts about the Renault 5 prototype and the new Megane E-Tech. When the design appeals to people, the comments are "not for me", "far too expensive", "hydrogen is the solution" and "don't see me in an electric car".

From the moment Renault quickly entered the electric car market with the Zoe in 2013, I have often responded to comments like these by saying, "think in possibilities, not in limitations”.  We are now almost ten years on, the electric car has taken root and is the reality for now and the future. Moreover, the European Union is pushing ahead with various measures and is threatening manufacturers with fines if they do not comply with the reduction in CO2 emissions. So whether we like it or not, we are going to drive electric.

But was it so different in the past? Emissions have been restricted by law in Europe since the mid-1980s. First came the catalytic converter, quickly followed by the more sophisticated three-way catalytic converter. Every few years the limit values were tightened. Particulate filters and numerous other technical modifications were introduced to make the car less polluting.

Renault has always coped with all the changes and in the last few years has been well ahead in electrifying its range. Diesels are almost a thing of the past; hybrids, plug-in hybrids and fully electric cars are calling the shots. There is not one car less in the showroom of the dealers. And the consumer, although somewhat reluctantly, is simply going along with the developments...

Tony Vos, editor-in-chief/publisher Losange Magazine