A major car firm is scrapping plans for an expansion of hybrid plug-in motors – despite rivals investing in revolutionary new tech.
The French automaker is instead “betting” full-hybrid powertrains as the key stepping stone towards all customers having to use EVs.
Renault 5 E-Tech compact battery electric car on display at the AutoSalon[/caption]
The Renault 5 E-Tech was elected Car of the Year 2025 which was announced at the 101st Brussels motor show[/caption]
Brand new 71 registration Renault Zoe electric car being recharged on the dealers forecourtt[/caption]
The firm’s boss Fabrice Cambolive said: “We’ve decided to bet on full hybrid because it’s the easiest way to have low-consumption cars and prepare our customers to go to EVs.”
Renault’s move comes after careful consideration of the challenges with plus-in hybrids.
Cambolive highlighted that full hybrids offer an EV-like experience at low speeds without requiring plus-in charging, making them more user-friendly for drivers.
The Rafale E-Tech 4×4, Renault’s latest PHEV, features a 1.2 litre petrol engine paired with three electronic motors, delivering 66 miles of electric-only range and a total range of 600 miles.
However, Cambolive admitted that PHEVs are less practical for smaller vehicles, saying: “When you go to lower segments, a full-hybrid solution is far enough.
“Otherwise, you shift to EV.”
Renault’s strategy stands in stark contrast to major rivals like BMW, Audi, and Volvo, who continue to invest heavily in PHEW technology.
While these brands see plug-in hybrids as a bridge to full electrification, Renault believes full hybrids are a more effective solution for most drivers.
This move aligns with Renault’s commitment to an all-electric future, as demonstrated by the highly anticipated Renault 5 E-Tech and Renault 4, which start at £25,000 and £28,000, respectively.
The company previously offered PHEV versions of the Megane and Captur but discontinued them in 2021 due to limited demand and practicality concerns.
By abandoning plug-in hybrids, Renault is doubling down on its EV vision, betting that its nostalgia-driven design and smart engineering will keep it ahead in the rapidly evolving market.
The decision comes at a pivotal moment following the Renault 5 E-Tech’s recognition as WhatCar? Car of the Year 2025.
With a starting price of £22,995, it is the third cheapest EV in the UK, offering an enticing blend of affordability, retro styling, and cutting-edge features.
Looking ahead, Renault plans to focus on hybridising its smaller models, including the popular Clio, as battery costs fall and emissions regulations tighten.
Cambolive hinted that the next-generation Clio, due in 2026, will likely feature hybrid technology, though the future of pure petrol engines in Renault’s line-up remains uncertain.
Renault believes full hybrids are a more effective solution for most drivers[/caption]
2024 Renault 5 all-electric car reveiled at the Paris Motor Show in France[/caption]
