Tow trials
As electric cars continue their rise in popularity, questions remain about how they will work for the 550,000 caravanners in this country.
The range of an EV is going to be savaged by towing a heavy caravan. And most charging points, due to their size, will require the inconvenience of unhitching the caravan first.
What Car? magazine, which runs the annual Tow Car Awards, has done some research and testing on the subject.
Using eight of the latest electric cars, it found the average range dropped by 54% when towing, and reported that none of the three main motorway services operators in the UK currently allow caravanners to charge without first unhitching.
With excellent timing Renault announced on Father’s Day that it was re-inventing its famous ‘Papa and Nicole’ story as used to promote the Clio in the early 90s. Apparently, Nicole became the 36th most popular name for newborn girls during that period. Now, three modern-day Nicoles, born in the 90s, will tell their life stories in print and across social media platforms until the end of July – just not on TV.
Renault has announced prices and specs for its new and very capable E-Tech Megane. The range starts at £35,995 for the entry-level Equilibre trim, moves to £38,495 for the Techno and finishes at £39,995 for the Launch Edition. All versions come with a 60kWh battery and a range of 280 miles.
We reckon it’s one of the best-driving EVs – up there with the BMW i4.
The order books are open now with deliveries starting later in the year.