Renault to localise new strong hybrids and plug-in hybrid cars in India
Renault India to introduce strong hybrids with heavy localisation along with new electric vehicles as they expect a big shift in the Indian auto industry.
Venkatram Mamillapalle, MD of Renault India, emphasises the brand’s commitment to offering diverse powertrain options, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol engines, EVs and hybrids.
Renault’s strategy includes the localisation of strong hybrid powertrains to ensure cost-effectiveness and competitiveness in the Indian market. This localised approach has been implemented with other models including Kwid, Triber and Kiger.
Strong hybrid powertrains provide a bridge between traditional internal combustion engines and full electrification. Renault’s E-Tech range of strong hybrid engines, featuring powertrains like the 145 HP and 160 HP, incorporates technology from Renault’s Formula 1 program and is protected by numerous patents. These powertrains utilise both series and parallel architectures, integrating electric motors with internal combustion engines.
The 145 HP version boasts a 49 HP electric motor and a 24 HP high-voltage starter generator, combined with a 4-cylinder, 1.6-litre, 94 HP petrol engine. With a 1.2 kWh battery, this strong hybrid powertrain can achieve a fuel efficiency up to 24 km/l.
The 160hp E-Tech plug-in hybrid variant features a larger 9.8 kWh battery, two electric motors and a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine. This plug-in hybrid technology is expected to be offered with the upcoming Duster or Bigster SUVs.
Renault is also considering to introduce new sub Rs. 10 lakh EV based on the Renault Kwid by 2025.
