At the heart of Renault Group’s quest to revolutionise low-carbon mobility, the Renault Emblème demo car emerges as a beacon of innovation. Designed to address the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions in Europe by 2040, and globally by 2050, the Emblème embodies a bold approach to decarbonisation that extends across every aspect of its life cycle. This avant-garde family vehicle, with its sleek shooting brake silhouette, stands as a tangible expression of Renault’s ongoing commitment to sustainable mobility.
A New Benchmark in Low-Carbon Automotive Engineering
The Emblème represents the culmination of extensive research and development aimed at reducing CO2 emissions by an impressive 90% compared to current vehicles. Renault’s engineers have meticulously crafted the Emblème to produce just 5 tonnes of CO2 equivalent (CO2 eq.) from cradle to grave, setting a new standard in vehicle lifecycle emissions. This remarkable achievement builds on the foundation laid by the 2022 Scenic Vision H2-Tech concept, pushing the boundaries of low-carbon innovation even further.
Central to this success is the integration of recycled and natural materials, along with production processes powered entirely by renewable energy. The use of re-used components and a circular economy approach ensures that the vehicle not only performs sustainably on the road but also throughout its production, transport, and eventual recycling stages.
Design Meets Efficiency
Renault’s signature design language is on full display with the Emblème, blending the elegance of a coupé with the practicality of an estate. This 4.80-metre-long shooting brake offers both style and substance, with a wide 2.90-metre wheelbase and a flowing roofline that make it ideal for family travel. The dichroic effect of the green bodywork adds a layer of visual intrigue, shifting in hue depending on the angle of light—a fitting metaphor for a vehicle that adapts to the future of mobility.
Beneath its striking exterior, the Emblème has been designed with aerodynamics and efficiency in mind. Every detail, from the camera-based rearview mirrors to the concealed windscreen wipers and recessed e-latch handles, is engineered to minimise drag. Advanced airflow management systems, including an F1-inspired flat-bottom design and an active diffuser, enhance the vehicle’s Cx coefficient to an impressive 0.25. This aerodynamic precision is a result of Renault’s collaboration with the BWT Alpine F1 Team, using cutting-edge digital twin technology and simulation tools.
Powertrain: Dual Energy for Maximum Versatility
The Renault Emblème’s all-electric powertrain is a testament to the company’s commitment to versatility and sustainability. Powered by a dual-energy system, the Emblème combines a 40 kWh battery for daily use with a 30 kW hydrogen fuel cell for extended journeys. This dual system enables the vehicle to cover up to 1,000 kilometres with just two quick hydrogen refuelling stops, each taking less than five minutes. On longer drives, such as the journey from Paris to Marseille, the fuel cell generates 75% of the electricity consumed, emitting nothing but water as it operates.
The vehicle’s 160 kW wound-rotor electric motor—free from rare earth elements—ensures a low environmental impact while delivering high performance. With a focus on lightweight materials, the Emblème tips the scales at just 1,750 kg, considerably lighter than most hybrid or electric SUVs of similar size. This strategic weight reduction further minimises CO2 emissions and enhances efficiency.
A Collaborative Approach to Innovation
The development of the Renault Emblème was a collaborative effort involving over 20 partners, each contributing their expertise to achieve Renault’s ambitious decarbonisation goals. This horizontal, collective approach allowed for a seamless integration of advanced technologies, materials, and production methods, resulting in a vehicle that exemplifies the future of sustainable automotive design.
Looking Ahead
The Renault Emblème will be unveiled in full at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, offering a glimpse into the future of decarbonised mobility. With its blend of cutting-edge technology, aerodynamic design, and innovative powertrain, the Emblème not only represents Renault’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon but also redefines what is possible in the C-segment and beyond.
Renault’s forward-thinking approach is already reshaping the automotive industry, demonstrating that sustainable mobility is not just an aspiration but an achievable reality. The Emblème is proof that with the right vision, collaboration, and innovation, the automotive sector can lead the way in the fight against climate change.
