Renault to launch the Zoe Zero Emissions Concept in 2012

The Zoe Zero Emissions Concept was first unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, and was co-designed with L’Oreal Luxury Products. Renault has now confirmed that it will put the Zoe Zero Emissions into production, with the car due to hit markets by 2012.

The Zoe Z.E will mark Renault’s direction for next-generation electric vehicles, with a whole host of electric-powered cars from the French carmaker to debut within the next couple of years. The Zoe Z.E is unique in that it has a replaceable battery pack that can be changed in minutes.

Called "Quickdrop", the compact battery pack is designed such that an empty battery can be swapped with a fully-charged one in just three minutes. The battery itself can be partially charged for short distances in 20 minutes, while a full charge will take 8 hours.

L’Oreal’s involvement with the Zoe has helped created a "spa" theme for the concept car, with the cosmetics company’s Biotherm engineers helping to develop an air-conditioning system that helps keep the skin hydrated, and closes the vents as pollution is detected. The team also created "an electric system [that] diffuses essential oils," supposedly helping people to relax.