Renault Adds Hydrogen Hybrid Powertrain to Master LCV Range

Renault adds a hydrogen fuel-cell powertrain option to its large-size Master LCV range claiming a working range of more than 435 miles (700 km) and a refuel time of less than five minutes.

Next year it will start series production of the Renault Master H2-Tech Prototype unveiled this week at the IAA Transportation event in Hanover, Germany.

Renault proudly claims the model is the only vehicle in its class made in France with its multi-energy platform, including internal combustion, electric and hydrogen, and all body variants are manufactured on the same assembly line at the Batilly plant near Metz in northwestern France. Engines, gearboxes and batteries are also made in France and 84% of suppliers are based in the country.

The hydrogen powertrain was developed by Hyvia, a joint venture between Renault Group and Plug dedicated to hydrogen mobility, and perfected over a three-year period. Its powertrain features a hybrid battery and fuel-cell system and uses an integrated multimedia system for management of range and H2 consumption.

It's a system that could easily be adapted for use in larger private passenger vehicles such as MPVs and SUVs.

While being a pioneer of electric commercial vehicles for the past 15 years, the automaker says it approaches hydrogen solutions in the same way: the energy source accompanied by an ecosystem built for and with the professional customer in mind. The automaker plans more H2 stations, supplies of carbon-free hydrogen and financing solutions.

As with its sibling range, the Master H2 Tech is adapted to the various intensive uses of professionals including van, floor cab and chassis cab versions.

It will be marketed with the benefit of a network of specialist H2-Tech dealers trained in the challenges of hydrogen for sale and after-sales service.