Renault Duster hybrid bookings open ahead of October 17 launch

Renault has opened the Duster hybrid’s bookings for Rs 21,000, ahead of its launch here on October 17. Interested customers can book the vehicle through the Renault India website or at authorised dealerships across the country. Called the E-Tech system, it draws from the carmaker’s experience and expertise in Formula 1. Renault has also announced that the Duster hybrid has an ARAI-rated fuel efficiency figure of 29kpl. This will be the third powertrain option for the Renault Duster, adding to the existing 1.0-litre and 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engines.

Renault Duster hybrid powertrain details

The Duster hybrid features a 1.8-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine, which works with two electric motors: a 20hp generator and a 49hp unit powering the wheels. A 1.4kWh battery pack supports this system, which together makes 160hp and 172Nm. Since this is a strong-hybrid setup, the battery does not require charging via an external source, and it charges while the vehicle is being driven.

Power is sent to the wheels via a multi-mode automatic gearbox, which uses fixed gear ratios and can shift between them. Renault claims that depending on the driving conditions, the system can switch between electric drive, engine drive and a combination of both.

Renault Duster hybrid powertrain — Renault’s 160hp E-Tech hybrid powertrain.

Renault claims the Duster hybrid can cover 80 percent of city driving in electric mode. The gains in efficiency come from low-speed electric running, regenerative braking and the ability to keep the petrol engine off when it’s not needed. However, real-world fuel economy will still depend on traffic conditions, speed, ambient temperature and driving style.

The choice of a hybrid powertrain is expected to help make up for the absence of a diesel option in the Duster’s line-up. This will also directly compete with the Maruti Grand Vitara and Victoris, and the Toyota Hyryder, all of which currently offer a hybrid powertrain option.