Renault Duster Hybrid Bookings Open Ahead of October 17 Launch
Renault has opened bookings for the hybrid version of the Duster ahead of its India launch on October 17. Customers can reserve the SUV for Rs. 21,000 through Renault India’s website or at authorised dealerships.
The new hybrid powertrain, which Renault calls E-Tech, will become the third engine option for the Duster in India. It will be offered alongside the existing 1.0-litre and 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engines.
Renault has also announced an ARAI-certified fuel-efficiency figure of 29 km/l for the hybrid Duster. The company says the system has been developed using its experience with hybrid technology and learnings from Formula 1.
Renault Duster hybrid: powertrain explained
The Duster hybrid uses a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with two electric motors. One motor acts as a 20hp generator, while the second produces 49hp and drives the wheels.
A 1.4kWh battery supplies electrical energy to the system. Since this is a strong-hybrid setup, there is no provision to externally charge the battery. Instead, it is replenished through the engine and regenerative braking while the vehicle is being driven.
Combined system output stands at 160 HP and 172 Nm. Power is transmitted through a multi-mode automatic transmission that uses multiple fixed ratios and manages the interaction between the petrol engine and electric motors.
Depending on the driving conditions, the system can operate using electric power, the petrol engine or a combination of both.
Renault Duster hybrid claims 29 km/l
The headline figure for the new powertrain is its claimed 29 km/l ARAI fuel efficiency. Renault says the hybrid system is capable of operating in electric mode for up to 80 percent of typical city driving.
The system is designed to maximise efficiency through electric propulsion at lower speeds, regenerative braking and by switching off the petrol engine when its power is not required.
As with any claimed efficiency figure, actual fuel consumption is likely to vary according to factors such as traffic, driving speed, road conditions, weather and driving style. The 29 km/l figure therefore provides a standardised benchmark rather than a guarantee of real-world economy.
Renault Duster hybrid: competition
The hybrid powertrain gives the Duster an option in a segment where electrified petrol SUVs are already available. It will go up against models such as the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Maruti Suzuki Victoris and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, all of which offer strong-hybrid powertrains.
The hybrid version also expands the Duster’s powertrain line-up at a time when the SUV does not offer a diesel engine in its current range. Pricing and variant details for the Duster hybrid are expected to be announced at its launch on October 17.
