Renault Group

Renault makes donation of a Kangoo Z.E. to Pope Benedict XVI

07 September 2012
The Pope goes electric!
by Renault Group

Renault has presented the Vatican with two electric vehicles made especially to meet the mobility needs of the Pope. The vehicles were handed over on Wednesday, September 5, to His Holiness Benedict XVI by Renault’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Carlos Ghosn during a visit to the Pope’s summer residence in Castel Gandolfo.

The first vehicle, for use when the Pope is travelling at his summer residence, is white with the Papal coat of arms depicted on the doors. It is an ecological, sustainable-development version of the Popemobile. Based on Kangoo Maxi Z.E., it measures 4.6 metres in length and 1.8 metres in width. It is powered by a 44kW (60hp) electric motor and a lithium-ion battery which ensures an average NEDC combined-cycle range of 170km.

 

The design of the other vehicle is very similar to that of the first, although its blue livery features a white and yellow stripe along each flank. It is for use by the Corps of Gendarmerie Corps of Vatican City for the Pope’s security.

The two cars were converted in association with the French constructor-coachbuilder Gruau. These special, exclusive vehicles can seat up to four people and are fitted with two particularly comfortable separate seats at the rear. Other specific solutions include an opening roof, removable rear side windows, hinged rear side doors and electrically folding door steps to facilitate ingress.

This donation to His Holiness is a means for Renault to reaffirm its strong and durable commitment to sustainable development and respect for the environment,” said Monsieur Carlos Ghosn, Chairman and CEO of the Renault Group.

View more

Euro NCAP Renault
Vehicles

SAFETY: 5 EURO NCAP STARS AND BEST RATING IN ITS CATEGORY FOR THE ALL-NEW CLIO

22 May 2019
View More
Clio
Vehicles

The All-new Renault CLIO: the most comprehensive driving assistance on the market

30 April 2019
View More
HR10-Nouvelle-Renault-Clio-5-RS-Line-2019
Innovation

2019 Geneva International Motor Show: The new TCe 100 engine underlines the versatility of the All-new Clio

05 March 2019
View More