Renault Scenic Vision previews hydrogen-electric model

Renault has uncovered its first hydrogen concept car – the Scenic Vision.

Set to become a production model in 2024, the Scenic borrows the name of Renault's long-serving people-carrier which was discontinued overseas earlier this month – however, this Scenic is powered by a hydrogen fuel-cell and electric motors.

Utilising green hydrogen, the Scenic Vision uses a 2.5 kilogram hydrogen tank up front feeding its 15kW fuel-cell – which is in turn connected to a 40kWh battery pack delivering power to the 160kW front motor. The same setup has been lifted from the upcoming Mégane E-Tech.

9

Although a production model is in the pipeline for 2024, Renault believes having a larger network of hydrogen filling stations throughout Europe from 2030 would allow the Scenic to achieve a driving range of 800 kilometres.

It seems the French manufacturer has a keen interest in hydrogen, claiming its Scenic is designed to have a carbon footprint which is 75 per cent lower than a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) – aided by the concept's 70 per cent renewable foundations.

On top of this, 95 per cent of the Scenic Vision's parts are recyclable, allowing its lifecycle to be as clean as possible, which helps Renault's plan to of go carbon neutral in Europe by 2040, and worldwide by 2050.

9

Measuring up at 4.49 metres in length, 1.9 metres wide and 1.59 metres high, the Scenic rides on 21-inch wheels and features unique design quirks, such as reverse-hinged doors, no B-pillar and short overhands – optimising space inside the cabin.

Innovative technology, such as Safety Score and Safety Coach systems, is also featured – the former of which uses sensors to "help drivers improve...and provides personalised advice on the various risks associated with their style", while the latter "gives drivers more room to plan ahead, avoid the risk, change speed to suit the specific situation and take stock of the various visual, audible, or tactile warnings."

9

Renault has previously outlined its plans to have a fully-electric vehicle range by 2030, previewed by concepts such as the Scenic Vision as well as the Megane E-Tech and new Renault 5, both of which will end up in production over the coming years.

Performance sub-brand Alpine has also hinted at hydrogen models, although its only effort thus far has been a concept designed by Italian students.