Renault outlines net zero aims with Emblème concept

Rather than focus simply on tailpipe emissions (or a lack of), Renault has taken a much wider cradle-to-grave view with this concept. It claims that over its entire life, the measures it has taken reduce its CO2 equivalent emissions by 90 per cent over a projected use cycle of 200,000km. It reckons it'll produce just five tonnes of CO2 during that entire life. The calculation takes into account everything from extracting raw materials and component manufacturer, to assembly and transport and eventually, the car’s use, maintenance and recycling.

It’s an EV and hydrogen hybrid. For the former, it uses a 40kWh battery suitable for local journeys. For longer trips, it will rely on the contents hydrogen tank. The realistic viability of hydrogen fuel cells is a matter of constant debate, but in theory the Emblème could travel from Paris to Marseille and emit only water for 75 per cent of the miles.

The car will rely as much as possible on recycled and natural materials in its construction. Interestingly, Renault also speaks about ‘re-used’ components but without going into detail. Could this mean taking entire components from end-of-life vehicles and building them into new cars?  The CO2 claims also depends on the manufacturing process using renewable energy.

The Emblème also goes back to basic principles of aerodynamic efficiency and weight saving to lighten its burden on the planet. There’s a bit of Lotus-like ‘porosity’ in the way air is guided through the car, while the full-disc wheels are also designed to slip through the air as easily as possible. Renault used simulation equipment borrowed from the Alpine F1 team in the car’s design. At 4.8 metres long and with a wheelbase of 2.9 metres, it’s still quite a large car, though. Use of the AmpR platform, as seen on the Renault 5 and forthcoming 4, suggest this is a concept rooted in reality.

Renault is aiming for an all-up weight of 1,750kg, which compares favourably to the norms of EVs of this size. It points out that trimming kilograms not only makes the finished car more efficient but also reduces the impact during manufacture.

Taking into consideration the entire environmental impact of a car is the only way car makers will be able to justify continuing to manufacture new cars, rather than allowing consumers to continue using the cars they already have. It’s interesting that longevity isn’t one of the criterion measured here, which would be a key area to address as the human race endeavours to reduce its dependence on the planet’s resources.

The Renault Emblème will appear at the Paris Motor Show later this month.