Renault Announces New Model Onslaught Starting with the Bridger Concept
The Renault Group has announced 12 all-new European models by 2030 covering A - D segment cars and bringing electrification across the range, with a further 2 models targeting international markets.
Renault states there are three key levers to this bold decision:
Strengthen brand positions in Europe
Deploy electrification across the range
Step up the brand offensive on international markets launching of 14 new models by 2030
It aims to sell more than 2 million vehicles, half of which will be sold outside Europe, increasing electrification to 100% in Europe and 50% outside of Europe.
Renault Bridger Concept
Renault Group call this their “FutuREady Strategic Plan” and it’s chosen the Renault Bridger Concept to showcase Renault’s capabilities.
The Bridger is less than 4 meters in length (approximately Renault 5 sized), is designed for urban driving, but with a spacious interior. Renault claims a first in the B-segment with rear knee room measured at 200mm.
In addition, it has a very family-friendly 400 litre boot, which is undoubtedly class leading given its diminutive size.
Aside from that, with 200mm of ground clearance, the Bridger offers a raised driving position, which will win over many customers that prefer to have a loftier view of their surroundings.
Renault Bridger - the Urbanroader
Renault is synonymous for it’s compact A and B segment cars, with the Clio, Captur, Renault 5, Renault 4 and yet-to-be launched, all-new Twingo electric, and the French company aims to build momentum from these iconic cars.
For the C and D segment cars, Renault will bring a second wave of vehicles with next generation electric and hybrid powertrains with an ambition to bring greater value-for-money.
For it’s electric car range, Renault states “The next generation of C - D segments vehicles will be built on the new RGEV medium 2.0 electric platform.”
This promises longer ranges built on 800v architecture for ultra-rapid charging capabilities, along with a focus on efficiency. This new architecture is designed for B+ to D segment cars and can take various body shapes thanks to its modular design.
There will be three configurations to this new platform:
100% electric with a range of up to 750 km WLTP (466 miles)
4x4 electric with a towing capacity of up to 2 tonnes
Electric with a range extender, increasing the total range to 1,400 km (870 miles)
Renault’s R-Space Lab has also been working on advanced technology with main functions controlled like a smartphone via a central touchscreen. There will also be steer-by-wire technology, freeing space up front.
R-Space Lab explores experimental tech, too, like adding devices such as “a tactile alcohol detector to educate and support young drivers”; and in-car AI Assistants.
Renault claims its approach to technology “could enhance the Safety Coach with contextual functions and personalised recommendations, for example, or it could help drivers find their way around the vehicle or play the role of a driving assistant for those who choose to use it.”
R-Space Lab one-box concept
R-Space Lab has also developed a one-box, 4.5 meter long car designed to maximise space, whilst it incorporates the latest technological advancements.
The panorama screen frees up front occupant space and the front and the passenger curtain airbags are built into the seats to free up dashboard space, which Renault has used to develop an “ingenious multifunction glovebox that can hold a tablet or bag, for example, or fold out to provide space for relaxing and extending the legs.”
The next 4 years will be exciting times at Renault, and both for existing and new customers who will undoubtedly get to choose from some truly amazing and talented cars.
It’s also great to see a legacy car company investing and innovating with a keen eye on the future and a clear transition strategy to an all-electric line-up at some point next decade.
It’s a far cry from manufacturers that complain publicly about hard times with the transition when Renault is out there investing and building its future and bringing positive news to the industry.
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About the Author
Graeme Cobb is a lifelong car enthusiast with a passion for writing about cars, EVs, industry updates and more.
You can find Graeme on 𝕏 at @graeme_cobb or YouTube @REV-EV.