A whole new platform has been designed to accommodate all this new tech. The 218PS (160kW) electric motor is at the rear, the 20PS (15kW) fuel cell is under the floor behind the battery, and the 2.5kg hydrogen tank is at the front. Having a fuel cell on board to extend the range allows for a much smaller 40kWh battery than the electric car norm. Smaller batteries mean less weight and lower cost.
According to the French company, the design “provides a preview” of an all-electric model that will be unveiled in 2024. Amid all the origami-sharp edges and heavily sculpted surfaces are some recognisable Renault design cues, specially at the rear. And what about those wheels? All 21-inches of them.
And inside? The Scenic pioneered a compact family car with a light and spacious interior where everyone got their own adjustable seat, a high-set view out through big windows – and lots and lots of cubbyholes to put things. The new one might be more high-tech – there are no fewer than ten configurable screens throughout the cabin – although it probably has fewer cubbyholes.