Renault's Mobilize unit will launch Chinese-built EV for ride-hailing and taxi services

PARIS -- Renault's Mobilize mobility services unit will launch the Limo, a Chinese-built electric sedan, for use in ride-hailing and taxi services in the second half of 2022.

The midsize car will debut in Europe at the Munich auto show on Sept. 8, and 40 vehicles will enter service in various ride-hailing and taxi services in the second half of 2022, Mobilize said in a news release.

Renault CEO Luca De Meo has said that that Mobilize will account for 20 percent of the automaker's turnover by 2030. In addition to the Limo, other new and planned Mobilize vehicles include the Dacia Spring electric minicar; the Duo, a two-seat electric vehicle comparable to the Renault Twizy quadricycle; and the Hippo, a small electric delivery van.

The automaker is hoping to use the Limo to capture a share of Europe's ride-hailing market, which it says will grow from 28 billion euros ($33 billion) today to 50 billion euros in 2030. In addition to taxis and ride-hailing, the Limo can be used for medical or community transport services.

The Limo was developed Renault's joint venture partner Jingliang Motors Group in China, where it is known as the EZoom Yi.

Mobilize, which includes RCI Bank's credit operations as well as services such as short-term rentals or car-sharing and last-mile deliveries, is being led by Clotilde Delbos, Renault's finance chief and deputy CEO. 

"The Limo is the response of our new brand to the evolution of the ride-hailing market," Delbos said in a statement, adding that it demonstrates "a unique know-how resulting from the experience of the Renault Group in mobility services and RCI Bank and Services' strength in financing." 

Renault will offer a package of services for the Limo that includes warranties, maintenance, insurance and charging options. Financing will be managed by RCI Bank. Ride-hailing services can arrange contracts based on mileage or duration, while casual drivers can pay as they go, Renault said.

First Renault-Jiangliang car

The Limo is the first joint Renault-Jiangliang product from their collaboration, which is known as JMEV. It was established in 2015 and holds a license to produce electric vehicles in China.

The Limo is expected to have 450 km (280 miles) of range from a 60 kilowatt-hour battery, with the ability to recoup 250 km of range in 40 minutes from a fast-charging station. Renault says that is enough to cover the average daily use of a vehicle in ride-hailing or taxi use.

A 110-kilowatt electric motor, with the equivalent of 150 hp, propels the Limo from 0 to 100 kph (60 mph) in 9.6 seconds, with a top speed of 140 kph. 

Inside, the rear bench seat is designed for three passengers, who have USB ports, separate ventilation controls and reading lights. A flat floor increases foot space for the central passenger. 

Up front, a 12.3-inch central screen that is integrated next to a digital instrument panel includes cellphone mirroring so drivers can use their own navigation and company apps. 

Interior upholstery is designed to be durable and easy to clean. The Limo will be available in white, gray or black, and will be badged with Mobilize logos. Renault has not announced any pricing.

Safety features include eight interior airbags and a range of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) including adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, pedestrian collision warning and rear cross traffic alerts.

The Limo is 4,670 mm long, 1,830 mm wide and 1,470 mm long with a 2,750 mm wheelbase, with short front and rear overhangs to maximize interior space.