Introduction to Renault’s Carbon Neutrality Goals
The Renault Group has set a commendable target of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2040 in Europe and a decade later globally. As part of this ambitious strategy, the new Emblème concept car plays a crucial role. This innovative vehicle embodies Renault’s commitment to sustainability, demonstrating that automotive design can harmonize with environmental responsibility.
Life Cycle Analysis of Emissions
Using life cycle analysis, Renault evaluates the emissions associated with its cars. For instance, a petrol-engined Captur emits approximately 49 tonnes of CO2 throughout its lifetime, accounting for factors like material extraction, production, vehicle assembly, and end-of-life recycling. In contrast, the all-electric Megane E-Tech significantly reduces this emissions figure to just 24 tonnes over 200,000 kilometers. The new goal for the Emblème? To bring its total emissions down to an impressive five tonnes of CO2 from cradle to grave.
Innovative Features of the Emblème
Achieving such a low emissions goal involves numerous innovative aspects, one of which is the hybrid hydrogen powertrain. The rear-wheel drive Emblème is powered by a 215bhp electric motor that avoids the use of rare earth materials, paired with a lightweight 40kWh battery. Additionally, it houses a hydrogen fuel cell with a 2.8kg tank, extending its total range to about 217 miles. Other features designed for efficiency include a shooting brake style body, flat floor, aerodynamic aerodisc wheels, and integrated camera mirrors, all of which contribute to a remarkable drag coefficient of 0.25. Renault claims that it has meticulously eliminated “every superfluous kilogram,” reducing the weight of this car to just 1,750kg.
