Renault, based in France, unveiled the most recent developments of its electric-hydrogen hybrid concept car, CNBC reported. The French automaker has deemed the innovative hydrogen technology “one of the options to make electric vehicles more convenient.”
“Several systems to complement electric motors are being explored today to address the requirements associated with long-distance driving,” Renault said. “Hydrogen technology is one of the options to make electric vehicles more convenient.”
According to a CNBC report, it features Renault’s Scenic Vision, a hydrogen engine, electric motor, battery, fuel cell and a 2.5-kilogram hydrogen tank, located in the front of the vehicle. Its recyclable 40-kilowatt battery is set to be produced in France in 2024.
The concept for the new vehicle type, designed by the company’s director of Design Gilles Vidal, “prefigures the exterior design of the new Scénic 100% electric model for 2024.” According to the company, the electric-hydrogen powertrain is "part of a longer-term vision, beyond 2030."
“In 2030 and beyond, once the network of hydrogen stations is large enough, you will be able to drive up to 800 km [a little over 497 miles] without stopping to charge the battery,” Renault said.
Renault's initiative is similar to hydrogen tech efforts made by other car brands, such as Toyota, Hyundai, BMW and U.K.-based Riversimple as an upward low- or zero-emission effort continues to trend upward to stand against gasoline and diesel vehicles.