Renault E Tech Clio & Captur. New tech hybrids with F1 Influences.
Renault have been busy developing what they call multi-modal hybrid motors, as opposed to merely fitting out traditional combustion motors with electric capabilities, E-TECH motors guarantee:
• electric-only start up every time.
• enjoyable driveability in all circumstances.
• excellent fuel efficiency thanks to its smart multimodal gearbox, efficient regenerative braking, and high capacity battery recharging; all of which is thanks to the combined expertise
acquired Formula 1 and electric vehicles.
Battery capacity varies according to the type of hybrid engine:
• The New Clio E-TECH has a 1.2 kWh battery (230V) that grants significant reductions in fuel use and CO2 emissions, for up to 80% of urban driving time in 100% electric mode
• The New Captur E-TECH Plug-in has a 9.8 kWh battery (400V) that allows for up to 65 km in 100% electric mode in urban areas.
The New Clio E-TECH materialises these assets with 80% of the time spent on city roads in all-electric mode, for a consumption saving of up to 40% compared with an internal combustion engine in the urban cycle. The New Captur E-TECH Plug-in can run at 100% electric for 50 kilometres with a top speed of 135 kph in mixed use (WLTP) and 65 kilometres in urban use (WLTP City).
At the same time, E-TECH technology optimises energy use while slowing and braking.
• Battery regeneration while slowing: When the driver lifts their foot off the accelerator pedal and the gear stick is in ‘Drive’, the primary electric motor functions as a generator that recovers kinetic energy produced by the deceleration and turns it into electrical energy that is sent back to the battery. To recover more energy, the gear stick can be put into ‘Brake’ (B) mode; in which case, the car slows down much faster.
• Regenerative braking: When the driver presses down on the brakes, the braking process is triggered electrically, with additional hydraulic braking power coming from the brake pads if necessary. Here, too, the electric motor provides additional braking, recovering excess energy and returning it to the battery – so much as the battery's storage capacity will allow.
