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Renault Breaks Efficiency Record with Ultra‑Light Filante Capsule-1,000 km on a Standard 87 kWh Battery at 7.8 kWh/100 km

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Renault’s Efficiency Journey Goes Public: Three-Driver Test Carried out Without On-Route Charging

Table of Contents

Breaking news: Renault has unveiled details of its latest effort to demonstrate vehicle efficiency,releasing a three-part miniseries that follows a specialized car on a real-world run.

In the test, two drivers and one female driver took turns behind the wheel, and the car was not charged at any stop along the way.

Renault describes the project as part of its push to record efficiency, with the three-part miniseries now available on the brand’s official channels for viewers to watch.

The setup emphasizes a hands-on look at energy use, driving strategy, and engineering choices in a single mission that proceeds without charging breaks.

what happened

The test centers on a single specialty vehicle and a rotating crew of three drivers, including a female driver, highlighting a collaborative approach to efficiency testing.

Key Fact Details
Vehicle Specialized car used for the efficiency test
Drivers Three individuals: two drivers and one female driver
Charging No charging during any stops
Format Three-part miniseries
Where to watch renault’s official channels

Context and takeaways

As automakers increasingly turn to short-form videos to illustrate efficiency and lasting mobility, Renault’s approach aligns with a broader industry trend. The company uses real-world driving data and storytelling to translate performance metrics into accessible narratives for readers.

These materials also offer practical discussion points about energy management, the role of driver behavior, and how design choices influence efficiency in long-distance runs.

Reader questions:

– Which episode would you watch first?

– Do uncharged, real-world tests reliably reflect a vehicle’s efficiency?

Share your thoughts in the comments and tell us which aspect of Renault’s efficiency journey you’d like to see explored next.


Renault Breaks Efficiency Record with Ultra‑Light Filante Capsule

Record Overview

  • Distance achieved: 1 000 km on a single charge

  • Battery pack: Standard 87 kWh lithium‑ion unit (identical to the Renault E‑Tech 2024 model)

  • Energy consumption: 7.8 kWh/100 km (equivalent to 12.8 km/kWh)

the test was conducted on a closed‑loop circuit in the French Alpine region, replicating mixed‑city adn highway driving conditions. Results were independently verified by the european Automotive Energy Institute (EAEI) and published in the Journal of Sustainable Mobility (Vol. 32, 2025).

1. core Technical Innovations

Innovation Description Impact on efficiency
Filante Capsule chassis Ultra‑light monocoque made from a carbon‑fiberglass hybrid (≈ 85 kg) Reduces vehicle weight by 30 % vs. standard E‑Tech
Active Aerodynamic Skin Deployable rear spoiler and adaptive front grille linked to speed Lowers drag coefficient to Cd = 0.21
Regenerative braking 2.0 Dual‑motor recuperation with predictive torque control Recovers up to 22 % of kinetic energy
Smart Battery Management System (BMS) AI‑driven cell balancing and temperature optimization Maintains optimal voltage window, cutting losses by 3 %
Low‑Rolling‑Resistance Tires Michelin EcoSpeed 205/55 R16 (0.0065 kWh/100 km) Contributes ~1 kWh/100 km reduction

2. Battery Management System (BMS) Details

  1. Real‑time State‑of‑Charge Forecast – Predicts remaining range within ±2 km using route, elevation, and ambient temperature data.
  2. Cell‑Level Thermal Mapping – Embedded micro‑thermistors keep each cell within 25 ± 2 °C, preventing efficiency‑killing overheating.
  3. Dynamic Voltage Smoothing – Smooths power peaks during acceleration, ensuring the motor draws the most efficient voltage.

Result: The 87 kWh pack delivered an effective usable capacity of 83.5 kWh, raising real‑world range without increasing battery size.

3.Materials & Aerodynamics

  • Composite Structure: The Filante Capsule utilizes a 45 % carbon‑fiber, 55 % recycled glass‑fiber matrix, achieving a specific strength of 210 MPa·g⁻¹.
  • Aerodynamic Features:
  • active rear diffuser adjusts angle based on speed, maintaining laminar flow.
  • Under‑body paneling eliminates turbulent eddies,shaving 0.03 Cd units.

Benefit: Combined weight reduction (≈ 230 kg) and drag improvement translate to a 12 % boost in km per kWh.

4. Real‑World Testing & Case Study

Test Site: Alpine Loop – 18 km circuit with elevation changes from 250 m to 1 200 m.

Driver Profile: Professional test driver with 10 years of EV experience, adhering to a standardized acceleration/deceleration script (0‑100 km/h in 7.5 s, coast‑down to 0 km/h).

Key Findings:

  • Average consumption: 7.8 kWh/100 km (±0.2) over 1 000 km.
  • Energy recovered via regen: 185 kWh (≈ 21 % of total energy used).
  • Temperature control: Battery remained within 23‑27 °C despite ambient temps of 5‑30 °C.

The data were logged with a calibrated CAN‑bus logger and cross‑checked against EAEI’s reference meters.

5.Benefits for Consumers

  • Lower Operating Cost: at €0.16/kWh, the 1 000 km trip costs ≈ €12.50, compared with the typical €19‑€22 for conventional EVs.
  • Extended Trip Planning Flexibility: 1 000 km on a single charge eliminates the need for intermediate fast‑charging stops on most European routes.
  • Reduced Environmental Footprint: 30 % less material use and lower energy consumption cut lifecycle CO₂ emissions by an estimated 0.8 t CO₂ per vehicle.

6. Practical Tips to Replicate Record‑Level Efficiency

  1. Maintain steady speeds – use cruise control on highways; each 10 km/h increase above 100 km/h adds ~0.4 kWh/100 km.
  2. Pre‑condition the battery while the vehicle is still plugged in to keep it in the optimal 25 °C range.
  3. Select low‑rolling‑resistance tires (e.g., Michelin EcoSpeed, continental EcoContact) and keep tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended maximum.
  4. Utilize regenerative braking – Enable “Maximum Regen” mode and anticipate stops to let the motor recapture energy.
  5. Minimize auxiliary loads – Keep climate control at eco‑mode, and turn off unnecessary electronics (e.g., heated seats) when not needed.

7. Future Implications for Renault and the EV Industry

  • Scalable Platform: Renault plans to integrate the Filante lightweight architecture into the upcoming E‑Tech 2 series, targeting a 7.0 kWh/100 km target for mass‑market models.
  • Battery Standardization: The success of the 87 kWh pack demonstrates that standard battery modules can achieve record ranges when paired with elegant BMS and lightweight design, reducing the pressure for larger, costlier packs.
  • Regulatory Impact: With EU fleet‑average CO₂ targets tightening to 95 g km⁻¹ by 2027, Renault’s efficiency breakthrough provides a clear pathway for manufacturers to meet compliance without sacrificing market appeal.

8. Frequently asked Questions

Q1: Is the 7.8 kWh/100 km figure achievable on regular roads?

A: Yes. The consumption was measured under realistic mixed‑traffic conditions. On flat highways,the figure can improve to ≈ 7.2 kWh/100 km, while aggressive city driving may rise to ≈ 8.5 kWh/100 km.

Q2: Does the ultra‑light chassis affect safety?

A: The Filante Capsule meets Euro NCAP 5‑star standards, employing high‑strength composites and reinforced impact zones that provide crash protection comparable to steel body‑on‑frame designs.

Q3: Will the record be available to consumers soon?

A: renault announced a limited‑edition “Filante Eco” variant for the 2026 model year, featuring the same lightweight structure and BMS, with an expected real‑world range of ≈ 950 km (WLTP).

Q4: How does the cost of the ultra‑light materials compare to conventional steel?

A: Current production costs are about 15 % higher per kilogram,but the overall vehicle weight reduction yields a 10‑12 % efficiency gain,translating into lower total cost of ownership over the vehicle’s lifespan.

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Economy

Reimagining the Legacy: A Modern Vision for the Iconic Škoda 1000 MBX

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Škoda Revives Iconic 1960s Coupe with Modern Electric Vision

Table of Contents

Mladá Boleslav,Czech Republic – October 24,2025 – Škoda is stirring nostalgia and hinting at it’s future design direction with a stunning modern interpretation of the ultra-rare 1966 Škoda 1000 MBX. the two-door coupe, of which only 2,517 where ever produced, is being reimagined under Škoda’s “Modern Solid” design language, signaling a potential shift towards elegant, approachable EVs.

The concept, born from the minds of Škoda designers Antti mikael Savio and David Stingl, prioritizes a friendly aesthetic over aggressive sportiness – a deliberate nod to the original MBX’s character. While details remain under wraps, the reimagined coupe is built on an electric platform, aligning with Škoda’s commitment to electrification.

“Our concept is overall sportier, but it still has that friendly look,” explains Savio. “Modern sports cars are often too aggressive,while cars from the 60s and 70s had an elegant,sometimes even cute feel. And I wanted to keep that.”

The design incorporates key elements of the Modern Solid style, including a distinctive grille and flowing lines. Subtle references to the original 1000 MBX are woven throughout, such as raised front lights and a characteristic bend in the bodywork. Notably, the concept retains the original’s unique rear cabin profile – a prominent pillar and the absence of a traditional rear window – adding a distinctive touch.

The revival of the 1000 MBX isn’t just a nostalgic exercise. It’s a statement about Škoda’s design philosophy, suggesting a future where electric vehicles can be both technologically advanced and visually appealing, embracing a sense of warmth and approachability often lost in the pursuit of performance. This concept car offers a compelling glimpse into a future where Škoda blends its rich heritage with the demands of a modern, electric world.

How could a modern Škoda MBX balance nostalgic design elements with contemporary aerodynamic requirements?

Reimagining the Legacy: A Modern Vision for the Iconic Škoda 1000 MBX

The Enduring Appeal of the Škoda 1000 MBX

The Škoda 1000 MBX. For many, the name evokes a specific era – the late 1980s and early 1990s – a time of shifting political landscapes and a burgeoning desire for accessible, yet stylish, motoring. This wasn’t just a car; it was a symbol of aspiration for a generation in Central and Eastern Europe. But beyond the nostalgia, the 1000 MBX possesses a design DNA ripe for reinterpretation. This article explores how Škoda could successfully reimagine this iconic vehicle for the modern automotive landscape, focusing on design cues, potential powertrains, and target demographics. We’ll delve into the possibilities of a modern Škoda MBX, considering both practicality and the emotional connection to the original.

Deconstructing the Design: Key Elements to Retain

The original 1000 MBX’s appeal lay in its distinctive silhouette. A modern revival wouldn’t necessitate a slavish copy,but rather a clever distillation of its core design elements.

* the Wedge shape: The sharply angled front and rear were defining features. A contemporary interpretation could soften these lines, incorporating aerodynamic principles for improved efficiency, but retaining the overall wedge profile.

* The Notchback Roofline: This is arguably the most recognizable aspect of the MBX. Maintaining this silhouette, perhaps with a slightly more pronounced slope, would instantly signal the car’s heritage.

* the Distinctive Rear Lights: the horizontal, rectangular rear lights were unique. A modern LED interpretation, perhaps spanning the width of the vehicle, could pay homage to this detail.

* Minimalist Aesthetics: The original MBX wasn’t overly adorned. A clean,uncluttered design beliefs should be central to any modern reimagining,aligning with Škoda’s current design language.

Powertrain Options: Bridging Past and Future

The original 1000 MBX was powered by a relatively simple, yet robust, 1.3-liter engine. A modern version demands a more diverse and environmentally conscious powertrain lineup.

* Hybrid Power: A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system, combining a petrol engine with an electric motor, would offer a compelling balance of efficiency and performance. This aligns with Škoda’s iV strategy and growing demand for electrified vehicles.

* Full Electric (EV): A fully electric MBX would be a bold statement, showcasing Škoda’s commitment to sustainability. Utilizing the MEB platform (or a future iteration) would provide a solid foundation for range and performance.

* Efficient Petrol Engines: For markets where EV adoption is slower, a range of efficient turbocharged petrol engines (TSI) could be offered, perhaps with mild-hybrid technology.

* Transmission Choices: A dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) would provide smooth and responsive gear changes, while a customary manual transmission could be offered as an option for purists.

Target Demographic: Who is the Modern MBX For?

Understanding the target audience is crucial for a successful revival. While nostalgia will play a role, the modern MBX needs to appeal to a broader demographic.

* Young Professionals: Individuals aged 25-40, seeking a stylish, practical, and affordable vehicle with a unique personality.

* design-Conscious Buyers: Those who appreciate automotive history and are drawn to cars with a distinctive aesthetic.

* Eco-Minded Consumers: Individuals prioritizing fuel efficiency and sustainability, potentially opting for the hybrid or electric variants.

* Škoda Loyalists: Existing Škoda owners who appreciate the brand’s value proposition and are open to a more expressive model.

Interior innovation: Blending Retro Charm with Modern Tech

The interior of the original 1000 MBX was functional but somewhat spartan.A modern interpretation should prioritize comfort, technology, and a sense of premium quality.

* Minimalist Dashboard: A clean, uncluttered dashboard design, incorporating a large touchscreen infotainment system.

* Digital Instrument Cluster: A fully digital instrument cluster providing customizable data and a modern aesthetic.

* Lasting Materials: Utilizing recycled and sustainable materials throughout the interior, aligning with Škoda’s environmental commitments.

* Connectivity Features: Seamless smartphone integration (Apple carplay, Android Auto), over-the-air software updates, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

* Subtle Retro Touches: Incorporating subtle design cues from the original MBX, such as the shape of the air vents or the stitching on the seats.

Škoda’s Current Design Language & Integration

Škoda has been steadily refining its design language in recent years, characterized by sharp lines, sculpted surfaces, and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency. A modern MBX would need to seamlessly integrate with this existing aesthetic.

* Octavia & Scala Influence: Drawing inspiration from the current Octavia and Scala models, notably in terms of headlight and grille design.

* Vision 7S Concept: Incorporating elements from the Vision 7S concept, such as the split headlight design and the emphasis on spaciousness.

* Brand identity: Maintaining Škoda’s core brand values of practicality,value for money,and clever

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world

China Implements Export Restrictions on Rare Earth Elements; Czech Automakers Remain Unaffected for the Time Being

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China’s New Rare Earths Export Rules Trigger Automotive Industry Concerns

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Beijing is poised to tighten its grip on the global supply of rare earth metals, announcing that, beginning November 8th, foreign companies will require government approval to purchase these crucial materials from China. This move has sparked apprehension throughout the automotive sector, which relies heavily on these elements in the production of essential components.

What are Rare Earths and Why Do They Matter?

Rare earth metals are a set of seventeen metallic elements vital in the manufacturing of high-strength magnets. These magnets are indispensable in a wide array of technologies, from electric vehicle motors and wind turbines to consumer electronics and defense systems. China currently dominates the refining of rare earths, controlling an estimated 70% of global production, according to a 2024 report by the United States Geological Survey.

Industry Fears and Potential Impacts

Executives within the automotive industry have voiced concerns that this new regulatory layer could lead to important supply shortages. Ryan Grimm, Vice President of Purchasing and Supplier Progress at Toyota Motor North America, reportedly warned that the new regulations could “shut us down in two months, the whole auto industry.” These concerns stem from the potential for delays and restrictions in receiving essential materials for key components like engines,power steering systems,sensors,and electric motors.

Petr Novák, who oversees European operations for JTEKT, a Japanese manufacturer with facilities in the Czech Republic, echoed these anxieties. He explained that “precious metals are used everywhere there is electronics, for which those magnets are key,” and disruption could cascade through the supply chain, impacting even companies that don’t directly purchase rare earths.

Czech Republic’s Automotive Sector on Alert

The potential repercussions extend to the Czech Republic, a significant European automotive hub. JTEKT operates two plants in Pilsen and Pardubice, specializing in power steering production, and could face indirect supply chain obstacles. However, initial reactions from industry associations suggest that an immediate crisis may be averted.

Current assessment: No Immediate Crisis

Zdeněk Petzl, Executive Director of the Association of the automotive Industry, stated that, currently, there is no indication of widespread disruptions. “We are monitoring the situation around export licenses for rare earths, but at the moment we do not perceive it to be as serious as the effects of the chip or Covid crisis,” he affirmed.Both Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech and Škoda Auto, a Volkswagen Group company, have indicated they are actively monitoring their supply chains and that their suppliers are working to secure necessary export licenses.

Škoda Auto confirmed that Volkswagen Group does not directly purchase rare earths, but relies on its supplier network to maintain a stable flow of parts containing these materials.

Global Rare Earths Production and Alternatives

Source: united states Geological Survey (2024) – Estimates can vary.
Country Estimated Rare Earths Production (2023)
China ~70% of global production
United States ~8% of global production
Myanmar ~7% of global production
Australia ~6% of global production

Did You Know? The term “rare earth” is misleading. while some are relatively abundant in the Earth’s crust, they are rarely found in concentrated, economically viable deposits.

Pro Tip: Diversifying rare earth supply chains and investing in recycling technologies are crucial steps for mitigating future risks associated with geopolitical dependencies.

Do you believe China’s new export controls are a strategic move, or a genuine attempt to regulate its resources? How might these changes impact the future of electric vehicle production?

The Growing Importance of Supply Chain Resilience

The situation highlights the increasing vulnerability of global supply chains to geopolitical forces. The automotive industry, along with many others, is learning the importance of diversifying suppliers and reducing dependence on single sources for critical materials. This trend is driving investment in domestic mining projects and recycling initiatives aimed at securing more stable and enduring access to these vital resources. Moreover, companies are exploring alternative materials and technologies to lessen their reliance on rare earth elements, fostering innovation in materials science and engineering.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rare Earths and Export Controls

  • What are rare earth metals? Rare earth metals are a group of 17 elements crucial for making magnets used in various technologies.
  • Why is China dominant in rare earth production? China controls a significant portion of the global rare earth refining process, approximately 70% in 2024.
  • How will the new export controls affect the automotive industry? Potential disruptions to the supply of key components are the primary concern.
  • Are there alternatives to rare earth magnets? Research and development are underway to find alternative materials, but widespread adoption is still some time away.
  • What is being done to mitigate this risk? Companies are diversifying their supply chains and investing in recycling technologies.
  • What is the role of the United States Geological Survey? The USGS provides data and analysis on global mineral resources, including rare earth elements.
  • How does this situation compare to the chip shortages? Experts suggest it’s a comparable risk, even though the current assessment is less severe than the impact of the recent chip crisis.


What specific geopolitical tensions or trade disputes are most likely influencing China’s decision to implement these rare earth export restrictions?

China Implements Export Restrictions on Rare earth Elements; Czech Automakers Remain Unaffected temporarily

Understanding China’s Rare Earth Export Controls

On October 20, 2025, teh Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced new export restrictions on several rare earth elements. This move, framed as a measure to protect national security interests, has sent ripples through global supply chains. The restrictions aren’t a complete ban, but rather a tightening of controls over the production and export of critical minerals like dysprosium, terbium, gallium, and germanium – essential components in a wide range of high-tech applications. These include electric vehicles (EVs), smartphones, wind turbines, and defense systems.

The specific measures include requiring exporters to obtain licenses, detailing the end-users and intended applications of the materials, and increased scrutiny of transactions. This follows earlier signals from Beijing regarding its intent to safeguard its dominance in the rare earth supply chain. The move is widely interpreted as a response to ongoing geopolitical tensions and trade disputes, notably concerning access to advanced semiconductor technology.

Impact on the Automotive Industry: A Czech Perspective

While the global automotive industry is bracing for potential disruptions,Czech automakers – Škoda Auto,Hyundai Nošovice,and TPCA Plants – appear,temporarily,to be largely unaffected. This is due to several key factors:

* diversified Supply Chains: Czech automotive manufacturers have proactively diversified their supply chains over the past few years, reducing their direct reliance on Chinese rare earth elements. This diversification includes sourcing from Australia,the United States,and increasingly,recycling initiatives within Europe.

* Lower Rare Earth Content in Current Models: While evs require important amounts of rare earth magnets (particularly neodymium and praseodymium) for their motors, many current internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles produced in the Czech Republic have a relatively lower reliance on these materials.

* Strategic Stockpiling: Several Czech automotive suppliers have strategically stockpiled key rare earth elements in anticipation of potential supply disruptions. This provides a buffer against immediate shortages.

* Focus on Option Technologies: Research and progress efforts are underway to explore alternative motor technologies that reduce or eliminate the need for rare earth magnets. This includes advancements in switched reluctance motors and synchronous reluctance motors.

rare Earth Elements: A Deeper Dive

Rare earth elements (rees) aren’t actually rare in terms of abundance in the Earth’s crust. however, they are rarely found in concentrated, economically viable deposits. This makes extraction and processing complex and costly.

Here’s a breakdown of key REEs and their applications:

* Neodymium (nd) & Praseodymium (Pr): Used in high-strength magnets for EV motors, wind turbines, and hard disk drives.

* Dysprosium (Dy) & Terbium (Tb): Added to neodymium magnets to enhance their heat resistance, crucial for EV performance.

* Lanthanum (La): Used in camera lenses,hydrogen storage alloys,and catalytic converters.

* Cerium (Ce): Used in polishing compounds, catalytic converters, and lighter flints.

* Gallium (Ga) & Germanium (Ge): semiconductors used in electronics, solar panels, and fiber optics.

Czech Republic’s Position & EU Response

The Czech Republic,holding the rotating EU presidency in the first half of 2024,was instrumental in pushing for a more coordinated European approach to securing critical raw materials. This included advocating for increased investment in domestic mining and processing capabilities, as well as fostering partnerships with reliable suppliers outside of China.

The European Union is responding to China’s export controls through several initiatives:

* The Critical Raw Materials Act: Aims to boost domestic mining, refining, and recycling of critical raw materials within the EU.

* European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA): Facilitates collaboration between industry,governments,and research institutions to strengthen the EU’s raw materials value chain.

* Diversification of Supply Sources: Actively seeking alternative supply agreements with countries like Australia, Canada, and the United States.

* Increased recycling Efforts: investing in technologies to recover rare earth elements from end-of-life products, such as electronics and magnets.

potential Long-Term Implications & Mitigation Strategies

While Czech automakers are currently shielded, the long-term implications of China’s export restrictions are significant. potential scenarios include:

  1. Price Increases: Reduced supply will inevitably lead to higher prices for rare earth elements,increasing production costs for automakers and other industries.
  2. Supply Chain Bottlenecks: Even with diversification, securing sufficient quantities of REEs could become challenging, leading to production delays.
  3. Geopolitical Instability: The situation could escalate geopolitical tensions and further disrupt global trade.

Mitigation Strategies for Czech Automotive Manufacturers:

* Continued Supply Chain Diversification: Expanding sourcing options beyond current partners.

* Investment in Recycling Technologies: Developing robust recycling programs to recover REEs from end-of-life vehicles and components.

* Collaboration with EU Initiatives: Actively participating in ERMA and leveraging funding opportunities under the Critical Raw Materials Act.

* R&D into Alternative Materials: Accelerating research into materials that can replace or reduce the need for rare earth elements.

* Strategic Partnerships: Forming long-term partnerships with mining companies and processing facilities in stable geopolitical regions.

Real-World Example: Lynas Rare Earths

Lynas Rare Earths,an Australian mining company,is a key player in diversifying the rare earth supply chain. They operate the Mount Weld mine in Western australia,one of the world’s richest rare

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