The Renault India is studying range-extender hybrid technology, and the hybrid SUVs will be launched after petrol versions, and the International-spec Duster will get a 140 hp strong-hybrid powertrain.
India is a multi-fuel, multi-strategy automotive landscape. Not everyone can invest in everything, so deciding which direction to take is crucial,” said Venkatram Mamillapalle, Managing Director & CEO of Renault India. “We’re already present in CNG. As for hybrids, we’re exploring that… but it has to be meaningful. Mild-hybrids don’t make an impact,” he said.
Renault is also investigating range extender systems featuring a small internal combustion engine coupled with an electric drivetrain. "We're researching it. I don't know all the answers yet, I'm still learning," he replied, suggesting that localisation of such technology might come later in the piece.
Renault Duster Hybrid launch planned for the same year as the Petrol model
Sources indicate the hybrid powertrain will, however, be offered in the future Duster as well as its 7-seat cousin, the Bigster. Timelines remain to be finalized, but insiders say the company is attempting to get its hybrid solution ready within the time it is going to launch the Duster and Bigster SUVs. Mamillapalle remained tight-lipped but noted that various technologies are being considered.
Renault Duster Hybrid on sale abroad
In some overseas markets, the Renault Duster has been launched (in some countries, it's sold as Dacia) with mild-hybrid and robust-hybrid engine choices. There's also a 130hp, 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol available in conjunction with a 48V starter motor, offering potential Duster customers in those markets a choice of mild-hybrid.
Powertrain of Renault Duster
The strong-hybrid option is a 94 hp, 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with two electric motors (a 49 hp motor and a high-voltage starter generator) driven by a 1.2kWh battery; system output is 140 hp in total. There is an electric automatic transmission as standard, and the company claims that the configuration can provide pure electric drive for as much as 80 percent of urban motoring. It is yet to be known if the India-bound Duster hybrid employs the identical hybrid setup.
Though the international market Duster also receives a LPG powerplant and 4x4 specification, both those bits are a far cry in our market. Renault had offered the old Duster here with AWD tech, but that electric rear axle on the new one might make it too costly for our market.
Conclusion
Renault India's venture into hybrid and range-extender technologies marks a big change in its strategy, one that falls in line with the nation's changing multi-fuel automotive scenario. With the Duster and Bigster hybrids very much in consideration, the brand seems to be ready to provide more environmentally friendly yet sensible mobility solutions that are well-suited for Indian roads. Though the complete details and timelines are kept under wraps, the company's emphasis on substantial electrification—going beyond mild-hybrids—indicates its desire to remain relevant and competitive. With localisation opportunities rising and hybrid technology maturing, Indian consumers can look forward to Renault's global developments taking root in their own backyard soon.
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