Renault EV Pope-mobile

Is Renault seeking divine intervention to sell more electric cars? The French car maker has just donated two bespoke versions of its new all-electric Kangoo Maxi Z.E. van to German-born Pope Benedict XVI and the Vatican City security force.

Who gives a Ratz' about the environment? Well, the Pope certainly does. The Holy Father is increasingly concerned with sustainability and has "frequently underlined the need for sustainable development to safeguard Creation," says Renault.

The European car maker joined forces with French coachbuilder Gruau to develop an ultra-green Pope-mobile, which was "designed and built especially to meet the Pope’s mobility needs".

There's no mention of bulletproof glass anywhere, but the four-seat vehicles feature "two particularly comfortable separate seats at the rear."

Pope Benedict XVI's Kangoo Maxi Z.E. also gets an opening roof and removable rear windows in order to better observe his subjects. Hinged rear side doors and electrically folding door steps are designed to improve access.

The second electric Kangoo has been built for Il Papa's personal security force, the Corps of Gendarmerie of Vatican City.

If a crisis situation is encountered, the new electric Pope-mobile has a 44kW electric motor to propel the Pope to safety, with enough battery power for range of around 170km.

Delivered to the Pope's summer residence, Castel Gandolfo, by Renault-Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn, the customised Renault Kangoo Maxi Z.E. vehicles help greenify the papal fleet.

"This donation to His Holiness is a means for Renault to reaffirm its strong and durable commitment to sustainable development and respect for the environment," said Mr Ghosn during a well attended hand over ceremony.

But can Renault's latest donation help deliver its message of green motoring to a wider audience... Is the Pope Catholic?

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