The first nine prototypes of the future electric Renault 5 are currently being tested by Renault experts as part of the development and testing of the vehicle.
These are the “mules” whose platform, control and battery are technically suitable for future production vehicles. As far as the matter is concerned, these vehicles are not yet faithful to the future model, because they are presented in the shape of the Clio. A discerning eye will also see that those mules have a pack.
Alternating static and dynamic tests, tuning and resistance, these mules are tested in depressing conditions (ice and snow) in Arvisdsjaur, in Swedish Lapland, as well as in medium and high conditions, in the Lardy (Paris) and Aubevoye (Normandy) technical centers.
Reproduction of all types of cases in the technical center of Aubevoye
The Renault Vel Center in Aubevoye is unique and special. It has advanced tools and equipment to simulate the various conditions to which the vehicles in the hands of customers will be subjected: 613 hectares, 35 tracks over 60 km, 42 test benches, 2 wind tunnels and 18 security cameras; all this is hidden behind 272 hectares of forests that protect the cars under development from the prying eyes.
Extreme cold: tests in extreme conditions
Tests carried out in the region of Arvidsjaur, in the far north of Sweden and close to the arctic circle, subject the vehicle to the greatest demands: icy ground and icy lakes, where some winter days you love -30 degrees, with stormy winds can be intolerable. I’m testing mechanics, so it’s important that the future electric Renault 5 mules are able to withstand these temperatures and conditions. In addition to the engine, other components such as battery traction have been tested.
The effectiveness of many parts of the equipment is also checked, such as the heating system, the quality of lowering and de-icing and the correct operation of the brakes, collision absorbers or stability control in the snow. On the powder slopes of the snow, it is also depressed that the snow does not accumulate in the piles, which could cause technical problems. These are points that cannot be replicated in the center of technology and can only be validated through cold experiments.
“These first tests, based on representative driving prototypes, can enable us to make decisions based on comfort and behavior as part of the development of the future electric Renault V. Without a moment of time to announce anything, we can already say that we are clearly placing ourselves in the first laps at the best level in its class, following the case of the electric Megane E-Tech 100, and we are encouraged to continue with enthusiasm all our improvements. until the commercial launch, for next year. »
Jérémie Coiffier, Engineering Director of the B-Ev family
Premiere of the CMF-B EV platform
The new CMF-B EV platform, which underpins the New Electric Renault V, aims to be the most competitive in its segment, while offering the best features in its class. To achieve this, this platform uses 70% of the components of the CMF-B platforms in Clio and Captur. Compared to the 100% electric Zoe E-Tech, the CMF-B EV platform reduces the manufacturing cost of the platform by 30%.
This new modular platform makes it easier to manufacture, develop and optimize new generation electric models in the B segment. Its design and performance make it possible to create electric vehicles with a new design, to adapt to the track and the wheel. of different kinds and kinds. Like the 100% electric Megane E-Tech, the future electric Renault 5 will prove to be a favorite in its segment. The dynamism will be multiplied by ten thanks to the optimized chassis with the multi-connection connection of the rear upper segments usually reserved and the lower center of gravity due to the fact that the batteries are installed under the floor.
“This new CMF-B EV platform is a great opportunity from the product side, as it allows the future electric Renault 5 to offer real driving pleasure and at the same time be very competitive in the segment. »
Delphine de Andria, Product Performance Director, B-segment EV
New motors and traction batteries, also tested
The CMF-B EV platform has a reduced engine compartment because the size of the electric motor components is more compact than the combustion engine.
The New Renault V electric motor will be based on the well-proven synchronous rotor motor technology, especially found in the Zoe E-Tech and the 100% electric Megane E-Tech. By offering greater efficiency than a permanent magnet motor, the combination of this technology with the absence of rare earths limits both the high production costs and the environmental impact of the motor.
In addition, this machine will benefit from a new interior architecture, which gathers three main parts;
patina
control of the power management, managed by the “accessory box”.
By combining the various functions of these three into one, the machine is denser and lighter.
The engine of the future electric Renault 5 will be 20 kg lighter than the 100% electric Zoe E-Tech and will be more pleasant to drive and dynamic than its predecessor.
The competitiveness that Renault is looking for with this vehicle will also be achieved in a new set of batteries. The change from 12 modules (as in the 100% electric battery Zoe E-Tech) to 4 large modules simplifies its architecture and makes it 15 kg lighter. The battery pack will fit perfectly on the new platform. In fact, the future electric Renault 5 will offer greater capacity in a smaller volume.
Special care has also been taken to integrate the battery pack into the platform it protects. The location of the engine will add rigidity to the underbody, which will improve acoustics and driving pleasure.
A historic mobility brand and a leader in electric mobility in Europe, Renault has always developed a range of innovative vehicles. With “Renaulution” as a strategic plan, the brand proposes an ambitious transformation and value generation. Renault has thus evolved to a more competitive, balanced and electrified range. With this, it aims to focus on modernity and innovation in technology, energy and mobility services, within the automotive industry and beyond.
