Strong hybrid e-tech technology in new Renault Duster

Renault Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 incorporates a 1.8-litre petrol engine, two electric motors, a 1.4 kWh battery pack and an advanced multi-mode automatic transmission, together producing a combined output of 160 PS, offering the best-in-segment displacement, battery size, fuel economy and exhilarating performance.

Designed to maximise efficiency under real-world conditions, the system automatically switches between electric, hybrid and combustion modes depending on driving requirements. The result is a seamless driving experience that combines performance, refinement and exceptional fuel economy.

The new Renault Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 delivers an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 29 km/l, while enabling up to 80% of city driving in pure electric mode and offering fuel savings of up to 29% compared to diesel.

Built on the strengths that made Duster an iconic SUV globally, the Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 combines robust SUV capability with advanced technology. The vehicle delivers the commanding driving position, practicality and versatility expected from a Duster, while introducing a new benchmark for efficiency and refinement through Renault's E-Tech system.

Renault's E-Tech technology benefits from more than a decade of research and development in electrified mobility and incorporates expertise derived from the company's Formula 1 programme.

One of its most innovative elements is the patented multi-mode automatic gearbox engineered to optimise energy flow between the engine and electric motors. To complement this innovation, the Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 comes equipped with B Mode in gear selector, which increases regenerative braking when the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal. This helps recover more energy and store it in the hybrid battery while reducing the need for frequent brake application in traffic and downhill driving situations.

Unlike conventional hybrid systems, the transmission enables multiple operating modes and gear combinations, helping deliver smooth acceleration, improved responsiveness and enhanced efficiency across varied driving conditions.

The system is further complemented by features such as E-Save mode, which intelligently preserves battery energy for later use, and an advanced regenerative braking system that helps recover energy during deceleration. Most importantly, the battery recharges automatically while driving and during deceleration, ensuring customers enjoy the benefits of electrification without changing their driving habits.

With a combined output of 160 PS and an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 29 km/litre, the Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 offers both performance and fuel efficiency, qualities that diesel SUV customers traditionally have preferred. It offers customers evaluating alternatives to diesel a compelling new choice in an SUV designed for everyday versatility.

Commenting of the launch, Stéphane Deblaise, Chief Executive Officer, Renault Group India, said, “With more than one million E-Tech strong hybrid vehicles sold worldwide since 2020, the E-Tech strong hybrid is a proven Renault powertrain technology. Now, we are bringing it to India as part of our futuREady India roadmap. Our approach is to bring to the Indian customers the best of Renault’s global technologies, while developing cars, powertrains and features specifically for Indian needs through our engineering and design centres in Chennai, our biggest outside Europe. The Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 is a clear example of this approach.”

Francisco Hidalgo, Vice President – Sales & Marketing, Renault Group India, said, “In the Duster segment, nearly half of all diesel vehicles are sold in the ?17–20 lakh price band, and that rises to more than 90% for diesel automatics. That is exactly where the Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 comes in. Starting at ?16.99 lakh, right at the heart of this market, we believe it is the smarter choice for customers considering diesel, combining significantly lower fuel consumption with a quieter, smoother and more sophisticated driving experience, without requiring customers to change how or where they drive.”