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Renault has added a new plug-in hybrid setup to its latest Rafale SUV.
The Rafale E-Tech 4x4 300 uses a similar setup to the Rafale E-Tech 300 but gains an additional electric motor at the rear axle which brings four-wheel-drive in the process. In total, there are three electric motors on this Rafale - one at the front, one at the rear and a final compact starter motor.
This is linked to a 22kWh battery which, Renault says, could return up to 62 miles of electric-only range from a single charge. The French firm also says that this model could bring up to 403mpg when the batteries are topped up, though it’s still respectably efficient when travelling on engine power alone, with a claimed 48.7mpg coming in these instances. You’re also able to travel on electric-only power at speeds of up to 84mph.
Renault says that with a 62-mile electric range and a 55-litre petrol tank, the Rafale should be able to travel for up to 621 miles when the two are combined.
A full charge should also be achieved in just under three hours when using a home charger.
A special Atelier Alpine trim level will be available on the Rafale, too. It brings a variety of touches which take inspiration from sports car maker Alpine, such as blue exterior paint, 21-inch alloy wheel and a variety of blue accents inside. It also features a chassis control system that allows the driver to tweak the car’s damping, switching between Comfort, Dynamic and Sport modes.
Renault has stated that full pricing and specification of the Rafale E-Tech 4x4 300 will be announced shortly.
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