Renault Dauphine (electric, grey)-1960
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:
Years of Production: 1959-61
Number Produced: 120
Original Cost: $3,600