Renault is set to enhance the new Duster model with a strong-hybrid powerplant, with the variant scheduled to go on sale on October 17. The hybrid option will differ significantly from the turbo-petrol variants, featuring a combustion engine alongside electric motor(s) and a battery.
The new Duster E-Tech 160 will feature a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, which will be combined with two electric motors and a 1.4kWh battery, enabling the SUV to run on electric power only at appropriate times, reducing the load on the combustion engine.
The strong-hybrid powertrain of the Duster is designed to take advantage of the frequent need for acceleration in urban areas, as well as the ability to recollect energy while braking, giving it an edge over a traditional petrol-powered variant. Renault claims the E-Tech 160 will be able to achieve 80 percent of the electric-only range in urban environments, meaning it would be able to save significantly on fuel during city commutes.
In contrast to a traditional turbo-petrol Duster, the new hybrid variant will be able to operate in both electric and petrol modes, as well as combine the two. This would allow the Duster to use electric power for acceleration and rely on petrol when extra power is needed, and to recharge the batteries while slowing down, eliminating the need for separate charging.
The decision to use a naturally aspirated petrol engine in the E-Tech 160 highlights the difference between the turbo-petrol and turbo-hybrid Duster models, with the latter featuring a more powerful combination of a petrol engine and two electric motors.
With the launch of the strong-hybrid variant, Renault will offer drivers an alternative to both traditional combustion engines and fully electric vehicles. The Duster E-Tech 160 would be able to satisfy the needs of those who tend to commute in urban areas but also need to travel longer distances on the highway. The October 17 launch will therefore introduce a significant change to the Duster product line, offering an electrified alternative to the best-selling SUV. The new hybrid powertrain, which features a 1.8-litre petrol engine, two electric motors and a 1.4kWh battery, will highlight the difference between the conventional and fully electric powertrains, as well as satisfy the needs of customers looking for an efficient alternative to traditional petrol engines.