Europe just declared war on its new hybrid car. From the very beginning, European manufacturers have led the industry in innovation and technology. The supercars made by Italian automakers, the German precision and luxury, the hatch turbo models with the French – every country has its own characteristics when creating a vehicle. On the other hand, other countries on other continents also have the firepower to compete, and the main “villains” are the Asian companies.
Hybrids and other vehicles are being created
Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Mazda, BYD, and Hyundai – even being from other countries in different parts of Asia – share the common characteristic when building a car: functionality. A couple of cars created by these manufacturers are so good and mechanically clinical that some vehicles don’t break. For instance, a very famous model of Toyota in South America is the Etios, a car that many owners have stated that the car doesn’t require any adjustment over time, just changing the oil every thousand kilometers.
In order to keep providing cars with the best mechanical precision and still innovating, most manufacturers began to convert some of their most famous models into a full electric powertrain or hybrid version, to maintain the combustion engine but add some help with electric engines working simultaneously. Now, Renault just created a new version of one of their most famous car, the Scenic.
Renault launches new car to rival BYD
Renault’s new Scenic Vision concept car is pushing boundaries in eco-friendly design. Almost everything inside this car, including the battery, can be recycled — about 95% of the materials, to be exact. Even better, 70% of those come from recycled sources already, meaning the car is built with sustainability in mind from the start. The seats are made from a single recycled material without any added pigments, making them easier to recycle when their time comes. And get this — the floor uses plastics recycled from everyday items like milk bottles.
When it comes to performance, this hybrid features a new type of electric motor that delivers 160 kW without relying on rare earth metals, which can be difficult to source responsibly. The battery, made in France, is smaller and lighter than usual but still packs a powerful 40 kWh punch. On top of that, hydrogen fuel cells extend the driving range, blending electric efficiency with the added benefits of hydrogen.
The automaker is also focusing on safety
Renault didn’t stop at eco-friendly materials and hybrid tech — they also focused on safety. Their “Safety Coach” system uses sensors and cameras to watch for risky situations and driver fatigue, helping reduce accidents. And to keep drivers alert, the acceleration pedal vibrates if danger is detected, encouraging you to ease off the gas.
Inside the cabin of this hybrid innovation, the design is all about comfort and tech that adapts to the driver. The windshield extends into a transparent screen that replaces the traditional dashboard, while customizable touchscreens let you control everything from temperature to music and even your heart rate. Renault even teamed up with sound artist Jean-Michel Jarre to create a unique audio experience that’s all about enhancing your time on the road.
Two screens for the passengers and more
Inside the hybrid vehicle, two large 774 cm² OpenR screens take center stage, featuring the OpenR Link system with Google built-in and access to over 100 apps, making navigation and entertainment seamless. The car also packs more than 30 safety systems to keep everyone protected on the road. And there’s room for the whole family’s gear, too, with a generous 545-liter trunk. Renault really reinvented the family car by combining comfort, technology, and sustainability into one package.
