Renault Emblème Combines Best Of Hydrogen And Battery Power

Renault hasn’t been offered in the United States for more than 30 years, but the introduction of the new hydrogen-powered Emblème will make you wish the quirky French brand stayed. In all fairness, the striking creation is a concept, but the elegant design will inform future models. The Emblème will make its official debut at the Paris Motor Show from 14-20 October.

While the world gravitates towards crossovers and SUVs, the Emblème is an interesting cross between a coupe and a wagon, providing it with a shooting brake-style appearance. Measuring 188.9 inches long, the concept is about the same size as a Mercedes-Benz C-Class or a BMW 3 Series, placing it in the compact executive class.

Thank Goodness It’s Not Another Boring Crossover

It’s a handsome-looking thing, with a distinctive front fascia and a sculpted hood. The Renault logo is part of the unique lighting signature, with a fragmented light bar flowing into the gloss black bumper trim. There’s almost something Alfa-like about the styling, lending it a sporty look. The automaker says the Emblème has been designed with aerodynamics in mind, with a claimed Cd figure of 0.25.

Based on the AmpR Medium architecture – also used to underpin the Nissan Ariya and Renault Megane E-Tech Electric – the Emblème features a dual-power energy electric powertrain, much like the new hydrogen Honda CR-V e:FCEV. It has a hydrogen fuel cell for extended journeys and a conventional battery that can be recharged. The rear-wheel drive Renault makes use of a 215-horsepower would-rotor electric motor that the automaker claims “uses no rare earths.” With a 40 kWh NMC battery (lightweight and more affordable), Renault claims the Emblème is more environmentally friendly than a conventional long-range EV family car.

Efficient, Eco-Friendly, And Lightweight

Whereas the battery is used for city driving and shorter trips, the hydrogen can replenish the battery as required. With an estimated range of 621 miles (likely calculated on the WLTP cycle), the Emblème is a truly practical alternative to gas-powered vehicles and electric cars. Importantly, this range comes from the hydrogen fuel cell, not the battery, which means recharging isn’t necessary on long trips.

Another benefit of the setup is a surprisingly light curb weight. The concept tips the scales at 3,860 lbs, which is 400 lbs lighter than a rear-wheel drive Model Y. This relatively lightweight construction contributes to the lower CO2 emissions; Renault claims it emits 90% fewer “cradle to grave” emissions than an equivalent vehicle that’s on sale today. It remains to be seen whether this will be pressed into production, but there’s a chance it could be turned into a conventional EV in the coming years.