Summary
– Horse’s EREV system promises an EV-only range of up to 124 miles and a combined range of up to 497 miles with a full tank
– EREVs are making a comeback in Europe, with Renault’s powertrain spinoff, Horse, introducing the technology
– The system uses a smaller battery pack, potentially resulting in lower manufacturing costs and purchase price
– The EREV system works by having the combustion engine only turn a generator that provides power to the battery and electric motor
– Renault’s EREV system can easily adapt to existing vehicle architectures, making it more accessible to customers.
Article
Renault is introducing extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) to the European market through its new powertrain spinoff, Horse. The company promises an EV-only range of up to 124 miles and a combined range of up to 497 miles with a full tank. This move comes after Stellantis introduced the Ram 1500 Ramcharger in North America, opening up the EREV market. EREVs are not a new concept, as they have been used in locomotives for decades.
The technology behind EREVs allows for a smaller battery pack, making the vehicles cheaper to build and potentially lowering the purchase price for customers. With fewer minerals needed for production and the ability to recharge the pack at home at lower energy rates, EREVs offer a viable alternative to traditional EVs. The system includes a combustion engine, an electric motor, and a battery that can be recharged through plugging in or the gas engine. The combustion engine generates power for the battery and electric motor, without a physical connection to the driven wheels.
Renault’s EREV system has been designed to work across any existing vehicle architecture, making it easy to adapt to current models without a long wait for production. This makes it a convenient solution for customers needing to travel long distances and navigate low-emission zones. While the system still relies on a gas engine, it emits fewer harmful emissions than a traditional ICE vehicle. This technology could be a stepping stone toward full electrification for companies like Renault and others in the automotive industry.
Horse’s EREV system includes a 50-kilowatt generator for passenger vehicles and an 80-kW unit for commercial vehicles. This system sets EREVs apart from plug-in hybrids, as the combustion engine only powers the generator, not the driven wheels. Renault’s approach to EREVs could offer consumers a more affordable and sustainable option for long-distance travel. The company aims to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles in Europe while also providing a solution for customers who may not be ready to make the full transition to electric.
The reintroduction of EREVs in Europe marks a shift in the automotive industry, with Renault leading the charge in hybrid technology. As emissions laws in the EU become stricter, EREVs could be a viable solution for consumers and automakers alike. By combining the benefits of electric and gas-powered vehicles, Renault’s EREV system offers a versatile option for customers looking for a more sustainable and cost-effective driving experience. With support from Horse, Renault is well-positioned to compete in the European market and meet the changing needs of environmentally-conscious drivers.
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