Renault aims to achieve carbon neutrality in Europe by 2040, with a global target set for 2050. To reach this goal, the company is intensifying its focus on battery-powered electric vehicles, while also maintaining belief in the future of hydrogen-powered cars. The Emblème, referred to as a demo car, embodies both technologies. Similar to the new Honda CR-V e:FCEV, it integrates a hydrogen fuel cell with a rechargeable battery pack.
Renault describes the Emblème as a shooting brake, though some might argue it has an excessive number of doors. Regardless of its body style, the Emblème is an aerodynamic concept with a drag coefficient of just 0.25. It significantly differs from standard production models, and we hope some of its design elements will influence future road-going vehicles. The Emblème, despite being categorized as a compact car, measures 189 inches (4.8 meters) long and 59.9 inches (1.52 meters) tall, giving it a sleek silhouette.
Renault asserts that the Emblème can travel up to 621 miles (1,000 kilometers) as quickly as a traditional ICE vehicle. This claim assumes two stops to refuel the 2.8-kilogram hydrogen tank, provided refueling stations are available, with approximately 1,000 globally as of last year. Each refueling stop takes less than five minutes, and a full tank provides a range of 217 miles (350 kilometers). In urban settings, the low-profile wagon operates like a battery-powered EV, thanks to its 40-kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery pack. Calculating the range, a full battery charge should last for 187 miles (300 kilometers), with two hydrogen refueling stops extending the range to 434 miles (700 kilometers).
The Emblème is rear-wheel drive, equipped with a 215-horsepower motor mounted at the back. This wound-rotor electric motor does not utilize any rare earth elements. Despite its complex powertrain, the Emblème is lighter than most traditional hybrids or EVs, weighing in at 3,858 pounds (1,750 kilograms) after engineers meticulously reduced unnecessary weight. These efforts aim to ensure the striking wagon is as environmentally friendly as possible, with emissions from production to disposal reduced by 90% compared to similarly sized vehicles.
The concept car will be showcased at the 2024 Paris Motor Show from October 14-20, where we hope to get a glimpse of its interior.
