See our gallery of Renault's concept cars

Zero emissions and nothing less — that's what it's all about for Renault.

It's not just a lot of hot air spouted by some arrogant French executive, either. I've met some of the Renault team and can vouch that they are a group of people who are incredibly passionate, driven and dedicated to achieving this goal.

They have also thoroughly planned their strategy for getting to their goal and other vehicle manufacturers could be taken by surprise if they don't keep a close watch on these French motoring enthusiasts.

I've already been impressed by their recreation of the Clio, Clio RS and Fluence range – dynamic, pleasantly surprising, quality vehicles. That's why the concept cars they have unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show have my full attention.

The designs are fresh and vibrant, and what's more, Renault plans to market them on a mass scale to take a lead in the affordable production of electric vehicles. The four electric concept cars on show in Frankfurt are a preview of what is to come in 2011, the company says.

There's the Twizy ZE (zero emissions), a two-seat, urban transport where the passenger sits behind the driver. Power comes from a 15kW electric motor that develops 70Nm of torque. It's Renault's four-wheeled version of a 125cc scooter – but much classier and safer.

The Zoe ZE is intended to be a versatile runabout for the school or work run, or shopping trips. It is beautifully styled and has honeycomb solar cells in its glass roof to supplement power requirements. At just 4.1m long, it is powered by a 70kW electric motor which develops 226Nm of torque, but has road presence with its broad body panels are 21-inch alloys. Who says electric vehicles have to look wimpy?

Then comes the Fluence ZE, a family car that Renault says "demonstrates that attractive styling, comfort and space can go hand in hand with respect for the environment". It has a range of 160km and can be charged in standard mode (between four and eight hours), quick charge (20 minutes) or "immediate solution" (three minutes).

The Kangoo ZE might not surprise many business owners, who are already familiar with the current Kangoo workhorse for carting goods. It's not a bad mini-van for families either - if you can bend the term that far - and is powered by the same motor that drives the Zoe.

Go have a look at our gallery for the cars that you could be seeing on our roads sooner that you would expect.

A big fat zero It's not often you hear of a company that wants a zero score - but Renault's plans depend on it.

Ronaldo makes it slick Tired of dumbed-down ads for car products? Try this one by footballer Ronaldo for size.

Old tricks, new name A new craze among US drivers to employ fanatical fuel-saving methods is coming to a road near you.