Renault aims to achieve carbon neutrality in Europe by 2040, and globally by 2050. To reach this goal, the automaker is focusing heavily on battery-powered electric vehicles while maintaining a belief in the future of hydrogen cars.
The Emblème, touted as a demonstration car, embodies this dual commitment by combining a hydrogen fuel cell with a rechargeable battery pack, similar to the new Honda CR-V e:FCEV.
Renault refers to the Emblème as a “shooting brake,” though some might debate this due to its four-door design.
Regardless of its classification, the Emblème is an aerodynamically focused concept with a drag coefficient of just 0.25.
ts design is notably distinct from Renault’s standard production models, and fans are hopeful that some of these bold design elements will influence future road vehicles.
The Emblème is also larger than most compact cars, measuring 189 inches (4.8 meters) in length, but standing only 59.9 inches (1.52 meters) tall, giving it a streamlined appearance.
Renault claims the Emblème can travel up to 621 miles (1,000 kilometers) with the same efficiency as an internal combustion engine vehicle.
This range assumes two quick refueling stops for its 2.8-kilogram hydrogen tank, though refueling might be a challenge given the scarcity of hydrogen stations—around 1,000 worldwide by the end of last year.
Each stop takes under five minutes, providing a full tank that lasts for 217 miles (350 kilometers). In urban settings, the Emblème operates like a traditional electric vehicle, thanks to its 40-kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery pack.
In terms of range, a full battery charge is expected to cover 187 miles (300 kilometers). When combined with two hydrogen refueling stops, a driver can travel up to 434 miles (700 kilometers).
The Emblème is rear-wheel drive, powered by a 215-horsepower motor mounted at the back. Interestingly, this wound-rotor electric motor is free of rare earth materials, reflecting Renault’s commitment to sustainability.
Despite its complex powertrain, the Emblème is lighter than most hybrids or electric vehicles. Renault reports a curb weight of 3,858 pounds (1,750 kilograms) after meticulous efforts to eliminate unnecessary weight.
These measures are all part of Renault’s strategy to make the Emblème as environmentally friendly as possible, with lifecycle emissions cut by 90% compared to similarly sized cars.
The Emblème will make its public debut at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, running from October 14-20, where more details, including a glimpse of the interior, are expected to be revealed.
