Renault has started supplying its first hybrid vehicle in the Indian market—the Renault Duster. This hybrid car, which was introduced last month as the Renault Duster Hybrid E-Tech 160, is now available to buyers.
The vehicle, launched on October 17, claims the highest fuel efficiency in its class. The first customer received this car at a new showroom in Hyderabad, and according to the company, Hyderabad shows the greatest interest in booking the Duster Hybrid. However, the company has not disclosed the exact number of orders placed.
The price of the Renault Duster Hybrid E-Tech 160 starts from 16.99 lakh rupees for the Techno version, while the Emotion version costs 19.49 lakh rupees including export duties. Direct competitors to this vehicle include the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Victoris, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. Furthermore, in the mid-size car segment, it will compete with the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, with the Creta being one of the best-selling models in its class.
Despite the fact that sales of the basic Duster model were not very high at the beginning of this year, the release of the hybrid version gives the company hope for an improvement in the situation. The main advantage of the Duster Hybrid is its fuel economy; the company claims that the car can achieve a fuel consumption of 29 kilometers per liter.
This hybrid system is equipped with a 1.8-liter gasoline engine, which works together with two electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery. The total power of this system is 160 horsepower. Renault offers the car with an automatic MultiMode transmission, and the company states that with a full tank, the car can travel up to 1400 kilometers. According to Renault, up to 80 percent of city trips can be made in electric mode.
Other features of the Duster Hybrid include frequency-sensitive dampers, an illuminated grille, and an updated interior color palette. The company provides a 7-year warranty on the vehicle itself, and the battery has an 8-year or 1.6 lakh kilometer warranty.



