Renault Samsung Motors (RSM) is displaying its 100% electric vehicle model named SM3 Z.E. at the 2012 Busan International Motor Show with the main display theme of “EV Leadership & Future” through to June 3.
The SM3 Z.E., which will be produced at the Busan Plant for retail sales in 2013, is the company’s 100% electric vehicle, which is to be produced and sold as the first Korean-made mass market sub-midsized EV. The EV model will feature a variety of newly developed technologies of Renault Group and RSM.
The company formed partnerships with local leading companies such as LG Chem, LSIS, and SK Planet for EV production and developing a variety of initiatives such as EV rental service with POSCO ICT and EV used car business for the commercialization of EV. It also participates in a smart grid test bed and other technologies in Jeju for further technical validations.
SM3 Z.E. runs up to 182km (113 miles) in UDDS (Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule) mode on a single charge. The highest speed is 135km/h (84 mph), and the engine has a maximum output of 70kW and maximum torque of 226Nm. The 24kW lithium-ion battery for SM3 Z.E. is vertically installed in the trunk, and the energy recovery system starts operating at low speed to recharge the battery. LG Chem’s 24kW lithium-ion battery will be installed in the output from 2013.
Three different charging methods are available for the battery of SM3 Z.E., which will begin to be mass-produced for retail sales in 2013. First, drivers can recharge the car battery with the 220V power supply at home or in the office under the normal charging mode. Second, the 400V AC quick charging system enables the recharge to be completed in 30 minutes.
Drivers will be able to exchange their batteries through the Renault Group’s “Quick Drop” technology which takes only a few minutes. The quick drop method helps to extend the driving distance of EVs to facilitate long-distance driving with a single charge.
RSM is currently developing various business models such as car sharing plans, car rentals, and EV taxis with several local partners. It plans to offer competitive EV products through attractive business models compared to regular gas-powered vehicles in consideration of the EV infrastructure establishment plans and state subsidies.
Specifications of SM3 Z.E.
| SM3 Z.E. | ||
| Exterior (mm) | Length | 4,75 |
| Width | 1,81 | |
| Height | 1,46 | |
| Engine | Maximum motor power (Kw) | 70 |
| Maximum torque (Nm) | 226 | |
| Maximum speed (km/h) | 135 | |
| Maximum driving distance (km) | 182 (UDDS mode) | |
| Battery capacity (kWh) | 24 |
