The developments include the “HYDIVU” (Hybrid Diesel for LCVs) prototype, which aims to reduce fuel consumption and therefore running costs for high-mileage business users. It is based on the Master van powered by Renault’s ENERGY dCi 165 Twin Turbo diesel engine, and has been engineered in conjunction with a number of European partners.
The technology uses a number of new innovations, including a “Downspeeding” feature with longer gear ratios, to result in a fuel consumption reduction of up to 10% over long distances.
Another research prototype is a new lightweight two-cylinder diesel engine, which is being developed under the carmaker’s “POWERFUL” (POWERtrain for Future Light-duty vehicles) project.
The unit is only half the size of Renault’s 1.5-litre dCi diesel, weighs 40kg less, ideally suited for small vehicle platforms. This 730cc unit is both super-charged and turbo-charged and produces between 48Ps and 68PS with 112-145Nm of torque from 1,500rpm.
No performance details have been given but Renault said the results of the two-cylinder engine in initial tests are encouraging, although the performance needs to be improved before it could consider introducing it. The engine is being developed with 18 industrial, scientific and academic partners in France, Spain and the Czech Republic, with investment from the European Union.
In addition, Renault has developed a new, more efficient and more compact electric motor and a new turbocharged petrol engine adapted for use with LPG (liquified petroleum gas), both of which are scheduled for introduction next year. The new dual-fuel petrol/LPG engine promises 25% lower fuel bills and 10% lower CO2 emissions than a comparable petrol-only power unit. It is a three-cylinder engine featuring a turbocharger, engine Stop&Start, brake energy recovery and an eco-mode, and it complies with Euro 6 emissions regulations.
