Renault is poised to introduce range-extender hybrid technology across its family car lineup, a strategic move reflecting the evolving landscape of electric vehicle adoption. This shift, revealed by Renault executives, signals a potential slowdown in the rapid electrification of the automaker’s range and a broader industry trend acknowledging the varying pace of EV acceptance.
New Platform and Powertrain Flexibility
New CEO Francois Provost emphasized the importance of “bigger cars” within Renault’s strategy, outlining plans for a new versatile platform designed to underpin future C and D-segment vehicles – effectively replacing the Austral, Espace SUVs, and Rafale coupe-SUV alongside the Megane hatch and Scenic SUV. This unified platform aims to reduce development costs by up to 40% and help control new car prices.
While Renault is still progressing with a dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV) platform, CEO Fabrice Cambolive acknowledged that the transition to fully electric vehicles may not occur as quickly as initially projected. “If adoption is not as rapid as expected, perhaps you can complete this…with some extensions like range extender or plug-in hybrid, and that’s what we are working on,” he stated. This suggests a move towards offering hybrid options as a bridge to full electrification, providing consumers with flexibility and addressing range anxiety concerns.
Range Extender Hybrid Technology – A Likely Choice
Renault appears to be leaning toward range-extender hybrid technology, where a combustion engine acts as a generator to charge a battery that powers an electric motor. This approach aligns with the design of the Nissan Qashqai ePower and suits larger vehicles due to their ability to accommodate batteries, an engine, and a motor more easily. The decision remains whether to use a “serial drive” system—where the engine solely charges the battery—or a “direct drive” system—where the engine directly spins the wheels.
Compact Range Extender from Horse
Supporting this strategy is Renault’s powertrain supplier, Horse, a joint venture with China’s Geely and Saudi oil giant Aramco. Horse recently unveiled a compact range extender that integrates a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, generator, and inverter into a briefcase-sized package. This powertrain, capable of generating 94bhp or 161bhp with a turbocharger and compliant with upcoming Euro 7 emissions standards, can hybridize existing EVs, integrating with a vehicle’s existing electric motors.
Addressing Current Megane Challenges
The current all-electric Megane, launched in 2022 as part of Renault’s “Renaulution” plan, has faced challenges. While positioned as a C-segment hatchback, its compact size (4.2m) puts it between superminis and the Golf, limiting space and impacting sales. Moving the next-generation Megane onto the new platform promises improvements: new proportions, more interior space, and a wider variety of powertrains.
Future Models and European Expansion
The new platform is slated to underpin a range of future models beyond the Megane, including the replacement Espace, which will be influenced by the Emblem concept car. This demonstrates Renault’s commitment to expanding its offerings across Europe and other global markets, while adapting to the changing dynamics of the automotive industry and the uncertain trajectory of EV adoption.
Renault’s strategic shift toward hybrid options reflects a pragmatic approach to evolving consumer preferences and a recognition that the transition to fully electric vehicles may take longer than initially anticipated. By offering a wider range of powertrain options, Renault aims to cater to a broader audience and maintain its position in the competitive European market.
