The Renault R290 is a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor used in Renault’s zero‑emission vehicles from 2012 to 2023. It delivers 60–68 kW (81–92 PS) of continuous power and peak outputs up to 80 kW (109 PS), with maximum torque of 220–225 Nm available instantly from 0 rpm. The motor integrates a single-stage reduction gearbox and is liquid‑cooled for consistent performance under urban and highway conditions.
Fitted to models such as the Zoe (Q210/Q220), Kangoo Z.E. (KC), and Twingo Z.E. (C06), the R290 was engineered for compact packaging, low noise, and high efficiency in city and suburban mobility. Emissions compliance is inherently zero tailpipe, meeting EU CO₂ fleet targets and qualifying for UK Plug-in Car Grant eligibility during its production run.
One documented concern is inverter capacitor degradation in early production units (2012–2015), which can cause power derating or limp-home mode. This issue, highlighted in Renault Technical Note 84 51 03 00 P, is linked to thermal stress in high-ambient climates or frequent DC fast charging. From 2016, revised inverter hardware with improved thermal management was introduced.
All production years (2012–2023) meet EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 zero tailpipe emissions requirements (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Renault R290 is a 60–80 kW permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor engineered for compact EVs (2012–2023). It combines liquid cooling with a single-speed reduction gearbox to deliver instant torque and quiet urban driving. Designed for zero tailpipe emissions, it supports EU CO₂ fleet compliance and qualifies for low-emission zone access.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Motor type | Permanent-magnet synchronous | |
| Continuous power | 60–68 kW (81–92 PS) | |
| Peak power | 80 kW (109 PS) | |
| Torque | 220–225 Nm (available from 0 rpm) | |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled (integrated circuit with power electronics) | |
| Gearbox | Single-stage reduction (fixed ratio) | |
| Voltage system | Nominal 360 V DC (traction battery) | |
| Inverter | IGBT-based, integrated with motor housing | |
| Emissions standard | Zero tailpipe (EU Regulation 715/2007) | |
| Weight (motor + gearbox) | 73 kg | |
| Efficiency | Up to 94% (WLTP urban cycle) | |
| Mounting | Transverse, front-wheel drive | |
| Coolant type | Renault Type D (blue, ethylene glycol-based) | |
| IP rating | IP67 (dust-tight and immersion-resistant) | |
| Regenerative braking | Up to 0.2g deceleration, selectable levels |
The R290 delivers instant torque ideal for stop-start urban driving but requires periodic inspection of the inverter coolant circuit to prevent overheating. Renault Type D coolant must be replaced every 8 years or 160,000 km to maintain thermal performance. Early units (2012–2015) are prone to inverter capacitor drift under frequent DC fast charging; avoid back-to-back rapid charges in hot climates. Gearbox oil is sealed for life but should be inspected for leaks during high-voltage system servicing per Renault Technical Note 84 51 03 00 P. No oil changes or exhaust maintenance are required, but 12V auxiliary battery health is critical for power electronics startup.
Emissions: Zero tailpipe certification applies to all 2012–2023 R290-equipped vehicles (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No exhaust or CO₂ emissions are produced during operation.
Coolant Specs: Requires Renault Type D (blue) coolant (Renault TIS Doc. M84-5105). Not interchangeable with G12 or other formulations.
Power Ratings: Peak power (80 kW) available for ≤30 seconds under optimal battery state-of-charge and temperature (Renault PT-2020).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M84-5101, M84-5102, M84-5105
Renault Technical Note 84 51 03 00 P
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Renault R290 was used across Renault's Q210/KC/C06 EV platforms with transverse front-wheel-drive mounting and no external licensing. This motor received platform-specific adaptations—revised gearbox ratios in the Zoe Q220 and updated inverter firmware in the Kangoo Z.E. Phase 2—and from 2016 the Zoe R240 variant retained the R290 hardware with battery upgrades, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the motor code on the aluminium housing near the high-voltage connector (Renault TIS M84-5101). The 7th VIN digit is '9' for R290-equipped EVs. Visual identification: compact cylindrical motor with integrated inverter on the left side, blue coolant hoses, and single high-voltage DC input. Differentiate from R110/R135: R290 has lower peak power (80 kW vs 100+ kW) and is used only in Zoe up to 2019, Kangoo Z.E., and Twingo Z.E. Inverter part numbers changed in 2016; pre-2016 units (e.g., 8200845103) are not interchangeable with later versions due to capacitor and firmware updates (Renault Technical Note 84 51 03 00 P).
The R290's primary reliability risk is inverter capacitor degradation in early production units (2012–2015), with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent DC fast charging or operation in hot climates. Renault internal service data (2017) indicated inverter replacements in over 6% of pre-2016 Zoe units before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show 12V battery-related power-up failures as a secondary concern. Thermal management and charging habits significantly influence longevity, making coolant maintenance and charging discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT R290-EMOTOR.
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