Renault expands its range of eco vehicles in the US with the introduction of the new Renault Clio E-Tech Hybrid, a sign that the E-tech technology will end on all current cars.
Debuting technology inspired by the Renault F1 team for energy optimisation and brake regeneration, all models fitted with E-TECH technology offer customers strong performance with low running costs.
Technology that’s found in an E-TECH powertrain can be broken down into two categories; the first is the way in which energy use and recovery can be optimised, while the other is the application of an innovative multi-mode dog gearbox for the first time in a production vehicle.
The electrification of Clio has been easy thanks to the versatile CMF-B modular architecture that was designed from the start to accept electric capabilities. In addition, the compact E-TECH powertrain can also be mounted in the engine compartment of the Clio E-TECH Hybrid, ensuring there’s no compromise in practicality elsewhere.
The hybrid series-parallel architecture ensures there’s a wide range of combinations relating to engine operations and the most effective CO2 gains while in use on the road. All E-TECH powertrains offer three levels of energy regeneration and regenerative braking.
A 1.2kWh (230V) lithium-ion battery also features, allowing significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, delivering the ability to complete 80 per cent of urban journeys in 100 per cent electric mode – selected via the MULTI-SENSE driving modes or a dedicated ‘EV’ button positioned on the dashboard.
The E-TECH powertrain automatically starts the car in electric mode, as the gearbox is clutchless – this means the engine does not need to be engaged when starting the vehicle. On start-up, the All-New Clio E-TECH Hybrid is responsive and refined with maximum torque but also maximum efficiency operating in electric mode. The change from one mode to another is barely noticeable and requires no input from the driver.
Compared with an internal combustion engine, the All-New Clio E-TECH Hybrid saves up to 40 per cent in fuel and is capable of travelling up to 80 per cent of the time in electric mode. A total output of 140hp makes this the most powerful All-New Clio in the range, completing the 0-62mph sprint in 9.9 seconds.
All models come with a comprehensive five-year warranty with unlimited mileage limit in the first two years, while those with E-TECH and Z.E. powertrains come with eight-year battery warranty.
Priced from £19,595 in Play specification, the Clio E-TECH Hybrid is available to order now in all UK dealers.
