To further develop and refine the future electric Renault V, RENAULT experts are currently testing their first nine prototypes.
Features such as the chassis, platform, controls and battery are technically the same as the future production vehicle. Based on the design of the Clio silhouette, the Mules still don’t look like a future model. A keen eye will also notice that these reloading mules are excluded.
Alternating between static and dynamic fine tuning and endurance testing, the mules will test this winter in low conditions (ice, snow) in Arvidsjaur (Swedish Lapland), as well as in medium to high conditions in RENAULT. technical headquarters in Lardy (metropolitan area of Paris) and Aubevoye (Normandy).
Aubevoye’s technical medium: Reproducing everything that the end customer brings with it
Your Renault car site in Aubevoye is unique because it has the latest means and tools for any type of stress that vehicles will be subjected to in the hands of customers: 613 hectares, 35 tracks of clothing 60 km, 42 test lines, 2 wind tunnels, 18 corrosion chambers, all hidden inside 272 hectares of forest to protect the prototypes from the eye emissions.
The ultimate cold witness
Tests made not far from the Arctic Circle in the Arvidsjaur region in northern Sweden are ideal for subjecting a vehicle to extreme stress. A land of ice and frozen lakes, where some winter days reach -30°C with almost unbearable howling winds. The mechanical performance of the vehicle is tested so that the future electric Renault 5s can withstand such temperatures and conditions. The motor along with other parts including batteries are kept under close custody. There are also obstacles to be made on board systems, such as heating, lowering and off-road, and to ensure that the brakes, shock absorbers and ESC (Electronic Stability Control) work properly in the snow. Tests are also carried out to ensure that powder snow does not accumulate on the tires, which can cause damage to the vehicle. A wide range of parameters that cannot be replicated in a test facility, where only real world cold testing will suffice.
“The tests carried out on the rolling prototype chassis will help us to confirm decisions in terms of comfort and handling in the expected electric Renault 5. Without giving anything away, the first test drive is a clear indication that it’s a Megane worthy of descent. E-Tech electric with the best in-class for its kind of performance; we encourage the results that we are ready to test until its commercial launches come next year.”
Jérémie Coiffier, Head of Engineering for the B Family EV
The CMF-B EV has a primary gyro platform
Used for the first time in the future electric RENAULT V, the new CMF-B EV platform positions itself in its most competitive segment while offering the best in-class performance. Thus, the platform took 70% of the parts found in the CMF-B platform for Clio and Captur. Compared to ZOE, the CMF-B EV platform is 30% cheaper to manufacture.
The new modular platform is easier to implement, develop and optimize next-generation B-segment electric vehicles. The advantages of the new design mean that a new generation of electric vehicles can be created, with adjustable wheels and clothing, to allow for different body types and styles. Like the electric Mégane E-Tech, the future electric Renault 5 will be a benchmark in its segment in terms of driving pleasure. An optimized chassis with a multi-link rear axle (usually reserved for more prominent segments) and a lower center of gravity with batteries installed under the floor will guarantee greater dynamic performance.
“The new CMF-B EV platform is a great opportunity from a ‘product’ point of view, because it means that the future electric Renault V will boast real driving pleasures, while remaining very competitive in its segment.”
Delphine De Andria, B-EV Segment Product Performance Manager
The new motor and batteries are also used in testing
The engine compartment of the CMF-B EV platform is more compact because the electric motor components are smaller than those used in the internal combustion engine.
The electric motor of the future electric Renault V will be based on the proven electric excited synchronous motors used especially in the ZOE and the electric Megane E-Tech. Not only does it have better performance than a permanent magnet motor, but it also doesn’t require rare earth metals, meaning production costs and environmental impact are lower.
In addition, the machine will benefit from a new internal architecture, which combines three main components;
– DC/DC converter 400V from battery to 12V.
– in the battery tray
– the accessory box that manages the power distribution
By bundling these three functions into one box, the device is smaller and lighter. Approximately 20kg lighter than the one used for the ZOE, the future Renault 5 electric motor will be more fun and dynamic to drive than its predecessor.
The new battery pack will also help give the vehicle the competitive edge Renault was looking for. The change from the 12 modules seen in the ZOE battery to 4 large modules means a simpler architecture and 15kg lighter. Equipped with a single layer of modules, the package is perfectly suited for the new platform. The future electric Renault 5 will need less space to transport more kWh.
Special care was also taken to pack the ball inside the seat for added protection. Its placement will provide greater rigidity to the lower part of the bodywork, thus also better acoustics and pleasure.
