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Renault 5 prototype - Copyright Renault

Renault switches to ECO mode

Renault is also feeling the demands for emission-free mobility in the future. In response, the brand is revealing its plans for the next few years as part of its “Renaulution” strategy. According to the company, an important pillar will be the introduction of seven all-electric models by 2025. We take a look at the new start or - as Renault calls it - the “new wave”.

Renault puts the goals right at the top of the bulletin board: "Strengthening the leadership role through electrical and hydrogen solutions" and "To offer the greenest drive mix of all manufacturers in Europe by 2025". green ”is used. But at least Renault promises seven new electric models by 2025. Of all things, the historic Renault 5 should, according to Renault statements, be a prototype for the future. This looks a bit like the resurrection of the legends, as with the electrified competition BMW Mini or Fiat 500. But production of the Renault 5 was stopped in 1996. The Renault 5 does not have a comparable cult status and is more likely to be an in-house competitor to the established ZOE.

Nevertheless, the official statement from Luca de Meo, CEO Groupe Renault, says: “Because as a brand we know that our soul and our strength lie in our origins. The new electric Renault 5 prototype embodies the Nouvelle Vague: On the one hand, the R5 is closely linked to the history of Renault, but at the same time stands for the future of the brand and will make electric cars popular. "

A look at the historic small car

With its simple and functional design, the Renault 4 was one of the first popular, affordable cars from the sixties. The Renault 5, which has been in production since 1972, is a modern and inexpensive alternative to the Renault 6. The new design proves to be a bestseller at the beginning of the seventies with the new design language. With the self-supporting body, independent suspension and fewer built-in parts, it started with an attractive price-performance ratio.

Now Renault is reviving the past with the Renault 5 prototype. With the emission-free electric motor, the study is in keeping with the times. The departure of the seventies should give the necessary momentum for the times after the pandemic. The traditional air inlet on the hood is replaced by the flap for connecting the charging cable. The materials and surfaces used are reinterpreted.

In terms of technology, Renault is also relying on more comprehensive networking of its cars. With the so-called "Software République" the manufacturer wants to provide an open, cooperative ecosystem that deals with software, data, cybersecurity and microelectronics. At the same time, sales in the middle class and the upper middle class are to be accelerated with the new models. Renault has already established itself in the small car segment in recent years. In Europe, the ZOE was the best-selling model in 2020. In 2021 the race for the top spot will be fought with the Tesla Model 3.

Realignments

Renault is focusing on the realignment of the group. The aforementioned "Software République" is intended to ensure the independence of the brand in key technologies from big data to electronics. To this end, European know-how is to be bundled and used. With the launch of My Link in 2022, all Google services will be integrated into high-volume vehicles. The navigation and traffic control systems are of particular interest here.

With the new re-factory in Flins (France), Renault intends to recondition more than 100.000 used vehicles per year in the future, thereby extending the life cycle of a car. The conversion of diesel trucks to biogas and pure electric drives is also being considered. The recycling of car batteries will also become a separate focus.

However, hybrid drives will also play a key role in the corporate strategy in the medium term. With the introduction of E-TECH technology based on the electrical construction platforms CMF-EV and CMF-B EV, vehicles with lower emissions are to be approved here.

Conclusion

All traditional car brands are looking for the right strategy to maintain their market share. The European car market will once again experience a turning point in view of the planned Euro 7 standard. In this scenario, Renault plans the medium-term future with hybrid and electric drives.

Addendum

Cover picture - Renault 5 prototype - Copyright Renault

N. Hawthorn
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