Interview with Alain Nissim, international fleet director

1) Why have you decided to incorporate Renault electric vehicles in your fleet?

Firstly, electric motoring fits nicely with our environmental policy. The vehicles will widen our ‘eco-citizen’ line-up, which at present features hybrid and low-energy/low-emission models.
Secondly, Renault is the first car manufacturer to offer a range of four zero emission* vehicles, which generate no pollution and make no noise, while offering all the practicality our business requires. As a result, it made sense that we should turn to Renault to expand our fleet.

2) What are the main attractions of the Z.E. range for your business and your customers?

It is very important for Europcar to offer innovative transport solutions, in the form of cutting-edge vehicles that are enjoyable to drive and deliver outstanding performance. We are currently working with partners in the tourism industry to provide an attractive complete motoring solution that will make our customers’ lives easier.
With the upcoming Z.E. range, Renault is offering a product line-up that will fully satisfy our leisure and business customers, with both a commercial vehicle, the Kangoo Z.E., and a compact city car, the Zoe.

3) How do you see your Z.E. partnership with Renault?

We have had a very close relationship with Renault for a number of years now. We share the same values and the same awareness of environmental issues.
The Z.E. partnership is the first step of many in consolidating our excellent links with the company, with the electric vehicles underlining our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint.

4) What are the keys to success in establishing electric vehicles as part of corporate fleets?

There will be a number of factors.

The first challenge: is the recharging infrastructure. This absolutely has to be widespread and comprehensive – not just in our agencies, but also on the road, in supermarkets and public car parks. At Europcar, we are currently working to fit out our agencies with the necessary equipment for the new vehicles.


The second challenge: is the visibility of the products. We believe that the best way of building awareness initially will be through short-term rental. Our extensive network – we have over 2,500 offices in Europe – means that Europcar is perfectly positioned to do this.

The third challenge: is winning over users. Everything must be done to ensure that both businesses and the general public can familiarize themselves with the vehicles and the technology. Europcar advises itsr customers and allows them to test the cars – this ensures they understand exactly how to use the vehicles and get the most out of the experience.

The fourth challenge: is to change people's perceptions of the range offered by electric vehicles. Automotive companies, and Renault in particular, need to make technological advances quickly to improve and increase range. In addition, they also need to work to reduce the cost of batteries.

* during use