Renault has filled with innovations the return of the Scénic to its catalog. What was once a family minivan that has been part of the French manufacturer’s history since 1991, with four generations behind it, is now an electric SUV that is above the Mégane E-Tech in size. An experimental platform makes it possible to include an extender made up of a fuel cell and a hydrogen tank in its electric propulsion system. Renault is convinced that beyond 2030, the hydrogen will be a viable technology and widely used in light commercial vehicles.
The Renault Scénic will see the light again in 2024. It will take over from the iconic minivan that has been on sale from 1991 to 2022. Now it will be an electric SUV larger than the Mégane E-Tech. The aesthetic and functional transformation of the Scénic reaffirms the disappearance of a format, that of the minivans, which the French brand invented in its day, and which has gradually disappeared from the offer of all manufacturers.
Exterior design
The Renault Scénic Vision measures 4,490 mm long, 1,900 mm wide and 1,590 mm high. It is therefore 280 mm longer, 120 mm wider and 85 mm higher than the Mégane E-Tech, which it also outperforms in battle, with 2,820mm (135mm more). As defined by Renault, the Scénic displays a modern and sustainable design focused on three main points: environment, safety and inclusion.
The brand’s new design language is accentuated by wraparound lights and slim LED headlights that establish a visual link with the Mégane E-Tech Electric. But the new light signature in the lower part of the headlights, gives this model a unique personality that distinguishes it from its younger brother and emphasizes its straighter and more angular lines, compared to the curves of the Mégane’s bodywork.
The Scénic replaces the front grill by a panel located flush with the rest of the body decorated with a striking pattern that recalls the diamond of the French brand. Between the front and rear doors dispensed with the B-pillar for easy access to the interior. The opening is done through a touch-sensitive Renault logo.
Renault has also integrated a number of features aimed at increase efficiencyincluding 21-inch wheel flaps that close at speeds above 10 km/h to improve aerodynamics and open again at low speeds to cool the brakes.
Renault’s chief designer, Gilles Vidalhas stated that as happened with the Mégane E-Tech, the exterior design will evolve keeping 90% of the look of the concept. However, in all probability, some of the details mentioned here, which are part of the initial design of a concept vehicle, will end up disappearing in the production version.
The greatest innovation: the Renault Scénic propulsion system
The Renault Scénic will only have electric versions. With it, Renault wants to reflect a “broad vision” of mobility in the future, since the French firm believes that hydrogen fuel cell propulsion systems will be common beyond 2030especially in light commercial vehicles.
The electric motor from the Scénic Vision it inherits it from the one mounted on the higher power version of the Mégane E-Tech. It is an electric motor 160 kW (218 hp) which is located transversely under the front hood. The battery that powers it is, however, the smaller of the two available for the Mégane, with a capacity of 40 kWh.
This decision is explained by the inclusion of a 15 kW hydrogen fuel cell located under the floor that recharges the battery when the car is running. This autonomy extender allows to reduce the capacity of the battery and therefore its weight in exchange for adding new elements to the power train.
Renault estimates that from 2030, the hydrogen refueling network will have grown enough so that with the Scénic it will be possible to travel 800 kilometers without the need to recharge the tank or the battery. In addition, when this is necessary, only five minutes to fill it completely and once again have full autonomy.
Groupe Renault engineers are developing a completely new architecture for hydrogen electric vehicles. Although still in the prototype phase, it is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to the development of alternative powertrains. This new platform is specifically designed to host a battery, a motor, a fuel cell and a hydrogen tank.
Vidal explains that initially it was considered to use the CMF-B EV platform that will be presented soon with the arrival of the new electric Renault 5 to create the Scénic Vision. However, the idea was rejected in favor of a new experimental platform that would allow the implementation of a complete power train like the one that this model will debut.
Initially, in 2024, the production version of the Scénic will feature with the CMF-EV platform of the Megane E-Tech. At that time the new hydrogen platform will still be in the development phase and is unlikely to be implemented in production models. before 2030.
Sustainable and minimalist interior
The Renault Scénic Vision is manufactured in a 70% with recycled materials, of which 95% are also recyclable, including battery. This approach materializes in a minimalist interior presided over by an ecological vision. Recycled and recyclable materials play an integral role in Renault’s transformation strategy, accounting for between 25 and 35% of the 2024 electric Scénic.
As he floor like seats, for example, are made from 100% recycled and undyed plastics. The lining of the the ceiling It is made of particles generated by urban pollution. Renault ensures that each technological element is easily interchangeable to ensure that the car always contains the latest technology, thus avoiding the need for owners to switch to a new model to receive the latest advancements.
A facial recognition system open the door and adjust the vehicle parameters according to the driver’s profile. This system also offers the possibility of adapting driving conditions to a possible disability.
Another priority in the interior design of the Scénic Vision has been maximize the space available for the occupants. That’s why the seat stays are attached to the door panels for easy entry, and the dashboard moves back and forth with the driver’s seat to free up space in the front.
Renault also wants take care of the sound inside the Scénicfor which he has had the collaboration of the French composer, performer and record producer Jean-Michel Jarré. The artist joined the design team to define the sound signature of the concept car. The ‘less is more’ approach translates into the arrangement of a single speaker in each door, complemented by a so-called ‘soundbubble’ system of sound bubbles inside each headrest. In this way, a unique sound environment is created for each passenger. The transmission of the voice of the passengers and the driver, amplified if necessary, facilitates communication between the occupants of the vehicle, especially if there is a hearing-impaired user on board.
security technologies
A camera system integrated into the front of the vehicle extends the driver’s field of vision by 24% by transmitting the immediate surroundings to a screen on the dashboard. In this way, the windscreen is extended by 180° to offer complete and reassuring visibility, and the bonnet appears transparent. Next to the steering wheel are several configurable widget screens, each of which has a different function.
Renault has also added the safety coach system that analyzes driver behavior, gives it a score, and then suggests ways to improve. The system is capable of detecting risky behavior and encourages safer driving practices by reducing fatal collisions by 30%.
