In 1956, Renault announced the Dauphine, a 4CV development.  The mechanics are similar to those of the 4CV, but the body is a 3-box type.  It has a welded stress-carrying center section to which the front and rear assemblies are bolted.  The Dauphine quickly became Renault’s leading model.  The car you see here is a Henney Kilowatt-converted to electric power.  It was powered by an electric motor and uses a 36-volt traction battery system based on lead-acid golf-cart batteries.  It boasted an advertised top speed of 35 mph and a range of 40 miles per charge.  In 1961, it was priced at $3,600. Approximately 120 were built from 1959-61, and the great majority were sold to electrical utilities for electric meter readers.  Eureka-Williams Company (of Eureka vacuum cleaner fame) produced the electric conversion.

Specifications:
Manufacturer:  Régie Nationale des Usines Renault
Country of Origin:  France
Drivetrain Configuration: Rear engine, rear wheel drive
Engine:  Electric, 7.1 hp, 36 volt
Transmission:  Direct Drive
Top Speed:  50 miles per hour
Years of Production:  1956-68
Number Produced:  _____
Original Cost:  ____