Renault E-Tech Hybrid Vehicles. The best of both worlds.

I have taken part in many economy runs over the years. Some under the auspices of a respective manufacturer and some on my own. The general idea was to achieve the best fuel consumption from an internal combustion engine. But the experience in the Renault E-Tech day at Zwartkops raceway was different to say the least. We were in three teams of four as we drove around the demanding track in the Captur and the soon to be launched Arkana. Both are hybrids. We know that the Captur is selling well in Mzansi. Being on a race track was by no means a race. It was a test of endurance and economy. We drove many, many laps around the 2.4km Zwartkops track.

Going Hybrid

With Renault being at the forefront in promoting electric mobility over the past decade, the range has been expanded beyond 100% electric vehicles, by adding hybrid and rechargeable hybrid engines in order to increase accessibility to a broader consumer base. As a result, the Renault E-TECH engineering has stimulated innovation, resulting in no less than 150 patents, making this technology unique to the market.

Image: Supplied

 

Unique Driving Experience

Renault hybrid and rechargeable hybrid powertrains present unique driving experiences: Acceleration is immediate upon start-up thanks to the systematically 100% electric traction and absence of a clutch.  The drive is dynamic and supple, gear changes are smooth, and the vehicle responds even to high demands without any surge from the combustion engine.

Thanks to the extended electric range, the driving experience is as dynamic as it is smooth. Available immediately, the torque allows for accelerations and swift pick-ups right from the lowest speed.  The power of the electric motor converts into acceleration without jolts.  The drivers enjoy the 100% electric mode for up to 80% of their time behind the wheel of a hybrid E-TECH model (and up to 65 extra kilometres in a rechargeable hybrid E-TECH model).

Under the Bonnet

A hybrid powertrain

• A 145hp E-TECH Hybrid which is not only economical but has the added benefit of reduced automotive emissions

Engine

• The E-TECH Hybrid engines are based on a new-generation 4-cylinder 1.6 petrol engine, adapted to hybrid technology, which allow for excellent performance

Fuel consumption

• Fuel consumption gains of up to 40% compared with an internal combustion engine in the urban cycle, equating to reduced running costs, but we managed to achieve around 6l per 100kms.

Recharge

• E-TECH Hybrid recharges automatically while driving, providing ultimate convenience
• The E-TECH Hybrid technology offers an elevated driving experience through the following:

 

An economical hybrid powertrain

The 145hp E-TECH Hybrids consists of a 94hp 1.6 4-cylinder petrol engine and two electric motors - a 36kW e-engine and a 15kW HSG (High-Voltage Starter Generator).  The motors can operate independently or in unison, directing their energy to the wheels or to the battery.  The driver is not required to do anything: The E-TECH system automatically manages the combinations of operation between the different motors and the gearbox ratios.  In use, the mode changes are almost imperceptible. In the city, battery charging during deceleration and braking is optimized.

Image: Supplied

E-TECH

Regenerative braking combined with the high self-recharge capacity of the 1.2kWh (230V) batteries and the efficiency of the E-TECH system optimizes consumption.  Thanks to the benefits of the E-TECH Hybrid engines, these vehicles can be driven up to 80% of the time in suburban areas in 100% electric mode, with a fuel consumption reduction up to 40% compared with a traditional combustion engine. On the open road, the electric motors assist the petrol engine when power is needed.  Fuel consumption is therefore limited, even in Sport mode.  The result is a combined fuel consumption of 5 l/100 km and contained CO2 emissions as low as 108g/km. Silence, responsiveness and agility, whether you drive in town or on the open road, all contribute to an enhanced driving sensation.

Automatic Recharge

The battery of the E-TECH Hybrid vehicles re-charge automatically while driving.  During deceleration, when the driver lifts his foot off the accelerator pedal and the car is coasting or braking, the electric motor works like a generator to convert the energy produced by the rotation of the wheels into electricity.  A “B” position on the shift lever activates advanced regeneration, further optimizing the amount of energy returned to the battery.

Driving modes Multi-Sense

The driver benefits from a very smooth ride, with the car always starting in 100% electric mode.  The front axle is precise, and the shock absorbers are well optimized.  The handling is dynamic, but not sporty, making it a pleasure to drive.  Thanks to the MULTI-SENSE settings, it is possible to adapt the engine mapping, power-assisted steering, ambient lights, and the digital screen configuration replacing the dials. 

Final Thoughts

Both the Arkana and the Captur performed exceptionally well on the track, alluding to better performances on the hi-ways and bi-ways of Mzansi. The Arkana launches in Q1 2024. Pricing to be confirmed at launch but you can read more on the eye-catching Arkana SUV Coupe soon.