Renault's history of setting records is extensive, beginning in the 1920s with the 40 CV series, which focused on endurance records rather than outright speed. The original 40 CV des Records set new standards for average speeds over various distances, culminating in a 24-hour endurance feat. Similarly, the 1956 Étoile Filante dazzled with its jet-engine speed at the Bonneville Salt Flats. The Filante Record 2025 pays homage to these icons by continuing the pursuit of innovation in the electric era.
Renault's design director, Sandeep Bhambra, explains how the Filante Record 2025 borrows from its predecessors. The car's silhouette echoes the aerodynamically efficient shapes of the 40 CV, while the fenders draw inspiration from the Étoile Filante’s streamlined bodywork. In pursuit of optimal aerodynamics, Renault aims for a remarkably low drag coefficient between 0.20 and 0.25.
Key to achieving these numbers is the extended, gently sloping tail design and a compact body that maintains minimal air resistance. At 5.12m in length and just 1.71m wide, it's akin to a highly streamlined missile rather than a conventional car. With new models on sale and more in the pipeline, Renault is embracing a fusion of retro and modern design.
The cockpit of the Filante Record 2025 resembles that of a fighter jet, complete with an F1-style seating position to accommodate stacked batteries. Control innovations include hand-operated triggers instead of traditional pedals, thanks to steer by wire and drive by wire systems, potentially paving the way for future production models.
The yoke incorporates a flexible screen displaying key information, while the vehicle’s ventilation system is designed for efficiency. Renault has focused on weight reduction using materials like carbon fiber and Scalmalloy, optimizing the structure with minimal material use. Despite its 87kWh battery, the Filante Record 2025 achieves a total weight under 1,000 kg, making it a frontrunner in design efficiency.
The Filante Record 2025 is set to break long-distance electric vehicle records with a rear-mounted motor and specially designed Michelin tires to minimize resistance. With Renault's attention to innovative materials and design, breaking records isn’t just a dream but an attainable reality. However, potential team drivers need to be featherweight—under 50kg—to meet strict weight targets.
Summary: The Renault Filante Record 2025 merges futuristic design with heritage-inspired engineering to shatter electric vehicle records. It stands as a testament to Renault’s commitment to innovation, reducing weight, and enhancing efficiency, promising to push the limits of electric vehicle technology.
