Renault has previewed the next-generation technology that will underpin its future road cars, detailing strong advances in efficiency, lightweight body parts and advanced in-car technology – as well as showcasing its prototype computer-controlled autonomous driving vehicles.
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The French maker is focusing heavily on minimizing CO2 emissions and boosting fuel economy on its next wave of models, drawing on advanced turbocharging and formula One-inspired technology.
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Renault has developed a new twin-turbocharging system for its four-cylinder diesel engines, giving anywhere between a 2-8% improvement in efficiency depending on the application. The system uses a small turbo to improve low-end action and torque – working nearly from idle – with a larger turbocharger taking over from just below 2,000rpm to give strong power at higher revs.
Renault has also focused on minimizing automobile weight, claiming a weight saving of 10kg results in a 1g/km reduction in CO2. Showcasing an advanced tailgate design at its advancements workshop – mating the rear glass screen directly to the boot lid’s frame for the first time – the development saves 2.5kg.
Renault vice president engineering and quality Jean-Michel Billig confirmed to automobile express that the firm was investigating composite materials like carbon fibre for additionally weight saving, but that, currently, the end cost for the customer is too great.