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The Renault Clio Hybrid has economy of 64.2mpg and CO2 emissions as low as 98g/km, while also being able to travel up to 38mph in all-electric mode.
It features a 1.6-litre petrol engine and two electric motors, driven via an F1-inspired clutchless automatic transmission.
Renault claims that the Clio Hybrid can travel for 80 per cent of urban journeys on battery power alone.
The Clio Hybrid is the most powerful model in the line-up with 140hp. The petrol engine has maximum torque of 144Nm, whilst the electric motor generates 205Nm. The HSG (High-Voltage Starter Generator) delivers an addition 50Nm, improving acceleration, especially at speeds of between 50mph to 75mph where the battery assists with sharper responses than a conventional petrol or diesel engine, enabling a 50mph to 75mph time of just 6.9 seconds.
For company car users there’s a low BIK rate of just 22 per cent for 2020/2021.
Inspired by the EOLAB concept car unveiled at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, Renault E-TECH Plug-in Hybrid and Hybrid powertrains were developed and patented by Renault Engineering.
The 1.6-litre petrol engine is paired with two electric motors, one of which is a High-Voltage Starter Generator (HSG) and a multi-mode clutchless gearbox, inspired by Renault’s Formula One Team technology and expertise.
These systems allow for 100 per cent electric start thanks to the clutchless transmission – the engine is therefore not required when starting the vehicle. However, the E-TECH system automatically detects when the engine is required, engaging to deliver the power required in different driving circumstances.
The engine and electric motor can operate in unison or individually, driving all power to the front wheels.
Taking influence from F1 technology, kinetic energy can be recovered during deceleration and braking. This happens automatically either in natural slowing down or via braking, with the driver able to engage a dedicated Brake (B) mode via the gearlever to increase the level of deceleration. Energy recuperated is sent back to the charge the battery.
The Clio Hybrid is available across Play, Iconic, S Edition and R.S. Line trim lines, as well as a range-topping Launch Edition, with prices ranging from £19,595 to £22,095.
