Renault Rafale review: Super-stylish plug-in hybrid that boasts strong efficiency – The Independent

Executive Summary

The Renault Rafale E-Tech 4×4 300HP is a plug-in hybrid SUV that combines distinctive styling with advanced powertrain technology. This report analyses the vehicle’s performance, design, and economic viability, with a significant focus on its contributions to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The vehicle’s large battery capacity and substantial pure-electric range position it as a significant contributor to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by promoting lower emissions and more efficient energy use in transportation.

Vehicle Specifications and Performance Analysis

Technical Specifications

• Price Range: £43,995 to £46,995
• Powertrain: 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with three electric motors
• Total Power Output: 300HP
• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive
• Battery Capacity: 22kWh
• Maximum Electric-Only Range: 62 miles
• Combined Range (Battery & Engine): Approximately 621 miles
• CO2 Emissions: 15g/km
• Acceleration (0-62mph): 6.4 seconds

Powertrain and Efficiency

The Rafale’s plug-in hybrid system is engineered for efficiency and performance. The 22kWh battery is a key feature, offering a claimed 62-mile electric-only range, which is sufficient for the majority of daily commutes. This capability directly supports SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by enabling zero-emission urban travel, thereby reducing local air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The vehicle’s ability to operate predominantly on electric power, when charged regularly, aligns with SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering running costs for consumers. A full charge can be achieved in under three hours using a 7.4kW home wallbox, facilitating convenient overnight charging.

Driving Dynamics

The vehicle provides a quiet and smooth driving experience in electric mode. The transition between electric and petrol power is generally seamless, although it can exhibit hesitation under aggressive acceleration. Standard four-wheel steering enhances manoeuvrability in urban environments, a feature that contributes to its suitability for city life as envisioned in SDG 11. However, the ride quality is a notable drawback, with a tendency to feel bouncy on uneven road surfaces, even in comfort mode.

Design and Practicality Assessment

Interior and Ergonomics

The interior features a modern design dominated by a large, portrait-oriented Google-powered touchscreen and a digital driver display. While the overall material quality is good, some components, such as the steering wheel controls, feel plasticky and detract from a premium feel. The arrangement of three control stalks on the right side of the steering column presents an ergonomic challenge. Rear passenger space is adequate in terms of legroom, but the rakish roofline compromises headroom, potentially impacting comfort for taller occupants.

Utility and Boot Space

The vehicle offers reasonable practicality for family use. Front seat space is generous, and the boot provides sufficient capacity for typical family needs without being significantly compromised by the hybrid system’s components. This focus on family utility supports the creation of inclusive and sustainable communities under SDG 11.

Technology and Infotainment

The Google-based infotainment system is a standout feature, offering an intuitive interface, responsive voice controls, and seamless integration of Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play apps. The system’s predictive hybrid energy management, which uses route topography to optimise efficiency, is an innovative contribution to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by minimising energy waste. Over-the-air (OTA) updates ensure the system remains current, reflecting a commitment to sustainable product lifecycles. Higher trim levels include a head-up display and adjustable regenerative braking, further enhancing the technological package.

Economic and Environmental Impact Analysis

Cost of Ownership

With a starting price of £43,995, the Rafale is positioned in a competitive market segment. Its primary economic advantage lies in its low running costs, contingent on regular charging. The low CO2 emissions of 15g/km result in attractive Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) rates for company car users. By leveraging off-peak electricity tariffs, owners can significantly reduce their transportation energy costs, directly aligning with the principles of SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy). The vehicle’s financial viability is maximised when its plug-in capabilities are fully utilised.

Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals

1. SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): The vehicle promotes the use of electricity as a cleaner transport fuel. Its efficiency and the potential for low running costs through home charging make sustainable transport more accessible.
2. SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): The 62-mile electric range allows for zero-emission daily commuting, reducing air and noise pollution in urban centres and contributing to healthier, more sustainable cities.
3. SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): Advanced features like predictive energy management encourage efficient energy consumption. The 8-year battery warranty also supports product longevity.
4. SDG 13 (Climate Action): With official CO2 emissions of just 15g/km, the Rafale PHEV represents a tangible step in decarbonising personal transport and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Conclusion

The Renault Rafale E-Tech 4×4 300HP is a compelling plug-in hybrid SUV that successfully integrates style, technology, and a strong commitment to sustainability. Its substantial real-world electric range is a key differentiator that enables significant progress towards achieving key Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to clean energy, sustainable cities, and climate action. While it is not without flaws, notably its ride comfort and certain interior material choices, its efficiency and advanced technology make it a noteworthy contender in its class for consumers and fleet operators prioritising environmental performance.

Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals in the Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • The article focuses on a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), which promotes the use of electricity as a cleaner energy source for transport. The text highlights the vehicle’s ability to run on “pure-electric driving” for up to 62 miles, reducing reliance on petrol. It also mentions charging at home using “cheap electricity,” which aligns with the goal of accessible and clean energy.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
   • The Renault Rafale is presented as an innovative product featuring advanced technology. The article details its “high-tech Google infotainment,” “predictive hybrid energy use,” and “four-wheel steering.” This represents the innovation aspect of SDG 9. Furthermore, the reliance on charging infrastructure, such as a “7.4kW home wallbox,” connects directly to the infrastructure component of this goal.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The vehicle’s significant pure-electric range allows for zero-emission travel during “suburban commutes” and “shopping runs.” By enabling daily journeys without using petrol, the car helps reduce air pollution in urban and suburban environments, contributing to healthier and more sustainable cities.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • The article explicitly mentions the car’s low carbon dioxide emissions, citing “claimed figures of… 15g/km CO2.” This directly addresses the need to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. The discussion of “Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) rates” for company car drivers also points to policy measures designed to encourage the adoption of low-emission vehicles as part of broader climate action strategies.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

1. Target 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency.
   • The article highlights the vehicle’s exceptional efficiency with “claimed figures of 403.5mpg.” The plug-in hybrid system, which blends a small 1.2-litre petrol engine with electric motors and a large battery, is designed to maximize energy efficiency and minimize fuel consumption, directly aligning with this target.
2. Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and processes.
   • The Renault Rafale PHEV itself represents a “clean and environmentally sound technology.” The article describes its modern hybrid system, large battery, and low emissions as a significant step up from traditional vehicles, contributing to the sustainable transformation of the automotive industry.
3. Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality.
   • The car’s ability to cover “the vast majority of daily journeys without using a drop of petrol” due to its 62-mile electric range directly contributes to this target. By enabling zero tailpipe emissions in urban settings, it helps improve city air quality.
4. Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning.
   • The mention of “attractive Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) rates” for company car drivers due to the vehicle’s low CO2 emissions is a direct reference to a national policy designed to incentivize the adoption of vehicles that help meet climate change goals. This shows how products like the Rafale are supported by and integrated into climate-focused strategies.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

1. Indicators for Energy Efficiency and Clean Energy (SDG 7)
   • Pure-electric range: “up to 62 miles of pure-electric driving.”
   • Battery capacity: “large 22kWh battery.”
   • Fuel efficiency: “claimed figures of 403.5mpg.”
   • Charging infrastructure access: “A 7.4kW home wallbox will take the battery from empty to 100% in under 3 hours.”
2. Indicators for Innovation and Clean Technology (SDG 9)
   • CO2 emissions: “15g/km CO2.”
   • Adoption of advanced technology: “Google-based infotainment system,” “predictive hybrid energy use,” “OTA (over-the-air) updates.”
3. Indicators for Sustainable Cities (SDG 11)
   • Zero-emission urban mobility: The 62-mile electric range is sufficient for “suburban commutes, shopping runs,” indicating a reduction in urban pollutants.
4. Indicators for Climate Action (SDG 13)
   • Greenhouse gas emissions from transport: The specific figure of “15g/km CO2” is a direct indicator.
   • Policy incentives: The mention of “Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) rates” serves as an indicator of policy integration to promote low-emission vehicles.

4. Summary Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: independent.co.uk