Renault CEO Pushes for EREV, Ditches 'Fake' Hybrids
Renault's head criticized plug-in hybrids (PHEV) with a small electric range and urged the industry to switch to Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREV).
What is known
Renault CEO François Provost called most modern PHEVs "fake hybrids." According to him, due to the small battery range, drivers simply do not charge them regularly. Provost says this harms the perception of the technology by consumers and its reputation with regulators. The criticism is directed at both German and Chinese manufacturers.
The EREV concept implies that one or more electric motors provide propulsion, and an internal combustion engine recharges the traction battery as needed. Provost believes that this approach will convince drivers to charge every day while keeping the option to travel 1000 km stress-free.
Renault is exploring the possibility of installing an internal combustion engine as a generator on its new electric platform, which will form the basis of the next Scenic SUV.
Source: Autocar
