The Popes of yore have been known to parade in their glorious OTT rides. However in recent years, Pope Benedict XVI a.k.a. the “Green Pope” has attempted to undo that heritage by the opting for vehicles with alternative powertrains. Saving the world, one car at a time, it would seem.
He requested for a plug-in hybrid from Mercedes-Benz and even a solar-powered car apparently, but his prayers were not fulfilled.
However, on September 5th he was handed the keys, figuratively speaking of course, to two all-electric Renault Kangoo’s by Renault’s Chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn during a visit to the Pope’s summer residence in Castel Gandolfo.
The first vehicle, for use when the Pope is travelling at his summer residence, is white with the Papal coat of arms depicted on the doors. The vehicle is based on the Kangoo Maxi Z.E., it measures 4.6 metres in length and 1.8 metres in width. It is powered by a 44 kW (60 bhp) electric motor and a lithium-ion battery which ensures an average NEDC combined-cycle range of 170 km.
The design of the other vehicle is similar, although its blue livery features a white and yellow stripe along each flank. It will be used by the Corps of Gendarmerie Corps of Vatican City for the Pope’s security.
