RENAULT'S electric revolution is starting in November with the introduction of a battery powered minivan and a five-seater crew bus.

The ZE versions of the Kangoo go on sale on November 18 and will be followed early next year by the odd-looking Twizy two seater and the Clio-sized Zoe hatchback.

The electric Kangoo has the same 650 kilo payload as the conventional version and has a range of more than 100 miles on a fully charged battery.

A fast charge can be carried out in less than 30 minutes.

Prices start at £20,388 including VAT with the larger Kangoo Maxi crew van costing £22,428.

As light commercial vehicles they do not qualify for the Government's £5,000 grant available to buyers of electric cars.

Both versions of the zero emission Kangoo are ideal for inner city operation and are exempt from road tax, congestion charges and businesses can offset 100 per cent of the cost against corporation tax.

The vans have a three year, 100,000 mile warranty and the electric powertrain is covered for five years.

Operators will also have to pay a monthly rental charge for the vehicle battery packs which costs from £60 to £105 depending on usage.