Renault has switched to using the RAC to provide roadside assistance for all its new EVs, marking a move away from its previous focus on recovering vehicles.
The new deal means that every battery electric Renault vehicle sold or under warranty in the UK, including the Kangoo E-Tech van, is covered by the RAC in the event of a problem on the road.
Renault’s previous model was was primarily centred on recovery of EVs as opposed to roadside repairs, but the new approach is expected to dramatically improve the overall experience for Renault customers needing assistance.
The deal furthers the firms’ existing work; the RAC had already been looking after all the manufacturer’s new petrol and diesel cars since 2013. It also took on responsibility for running the Renault, Dacia and Alpine customer contact centre from last year.
A key factor in the new contract was the RAC’s work to support drivers of electric vehicles. Its EV Boost van-mounted chargers have been developed to provide modern-day equivalent of the fuel can for drivers who to come across an out-of-order charge point or who miscalculate their journey and run out of charge – one in five RAC patrol vans will have EV charging capability by the end of 2022.
In addition, the RAC All-Wheels-Up recovery system, which is now fitted to the majority of patrol vans, can be used to tow an electric car safely with all four wheels off the road, saving customers having to wait for a separate flatbed truck.
Mark Thomason, director of quality & service at Renault UK, said: “I am extremely pleased that we’re able continue to develop the services we offer for our customers with our long-term partner, the RAC. Together we are working hard to ensure all the key elements are in place to provide our customers with a seamless ownership experience, whether that be EV, hybrid or ICE Renault vehicle.”
