Renault Unveils Autonomous Electric GT Concept Car

(Image courtesy of Renault.)

Renault has unveiled Trezor–its all-electric Grand Tourer concept car following in the footsteps of the 2010 DeZir concept–and previewing trends likely to be seen in future Renault models.

The Trezor features red glazing and carbon bodywork with contrasting surface finishes.

On the hood, the honeycomb-form air intake is designed to provide a variable-geometry intake. On the left-hand side of the body, the fuel filler hatch has been replaced by an analogue gauge that indicates the vehicle’s charge level.

The Trezor’s one-piece clamshell roof lifts to give access to the interior. Standing 1,080mm (42.5in) tall, the Trezor requires occupants to straddle the side of its body as they climb in as a throwback to the world of classic racing cars.

(Image courtesy of Renault.)

Using a process developed by KEIM-cycles, the dashboard comprises superimposed thin strips of ash. According to Renault, the finished article provides a level of strength comparable with that of modern composite materials.

The interior features three screens, one centrally mounted featuring the logo and two touchscreen displays to either side instead of conventional stalk controls.

Trezor: Under the Hood

The Trezor’s motor derives from the Renault e.dams, two-time winner of the Formula E Teams’ world title.

With a maximum power of 260kW (350hp) and peak torque of 380Nm, it provides acceleration from standstill to 62mph in less than four seconds.

The Trezor features two batteries, each of which has its own cooling system optimised by the variable-geometry air intake incorporated in the hood.

(Image courtesy of Renault.)

The Trezor also incorporates a brake-operated energy recovery system, courtesy of the Rechargeable Energy Storage System (RESS) technology developed for Formula E racing.

The batteries are located separately, one at the front and the other at the rear, in an effort to give the Trezor optimal weight distribution. Its wide tracks (front: 2,048mm / rear: 2,106mm) and wheelbase (2,776mm) are designed to enhance road holding, while the low bodywork optimises aerodynamics to achieve a drag co-efficient (Cd) of 0.22. Its centre of gravity is also particularly low (ground clearance: 25cm) for greater stability and less body roll.

(Image courtesy of Renault.)

To improve battery range and performance, Renault Design paid special attention to taking weight out of the vehicle. The chassis incorporates a central carbon cell mated to tubular steel frames front and rear. The monocoque and access hatch are made from carbon. Thanks to this work, the has the poise of a GT (length: 4,700mm [185in] / width: 2,180mm [85.8in] / height: 1,080mm [42.5in]) while tipping the scales at 1,600kg (3527lbs).

An Autonomous Grand Tourer

Renault’s Multi-Sense system enables the Trezor to offer a choice of three driving modes: neutral, sport and autonomous. The Trezor is intended to embody Renault’s vision of how autonomous cars can make travelling safer and more enjoyable.

(Image courtesy of Renault.)

When the car is in autonomous mode, the exterior lighting signature changes and extends to the lateral and rear logos, to indicate to other road users that driving has been delegated.

Beyond 2020, Renault’s target is to make completely safe ‘hands-off / eyes-off’ technology available for its mainstream vehicles.

For more automotive news, check out this Mercedes 18.5-foot autonomous electric concept car.