While Renault’s news is focused on the electric Mégane E-Tech, the manufacturer is preparing the launch for the summer of 2022 of the new Kadjar and more exactly of its new three-cylinder petrol 1.2 TCe (HR12) engine which will be associated with it. to 48V light hybridization.
But what does this Captur’s mule do on Andalusian roads, the engineers’ favorite playground during the summer? The answer lies on the yellow label stuck to the bottom of the windshield which indicates the XHN code. The latter corresponds to that of the new Kadjar which will be presented in spring 2022 and then marketed in the summer. Technically, the two vehicles don’t have much in common since they are developed on different bases. The test sheet inside the vehicle completes the mystery.
A brand new 3-cylinder
This prototype is used to develop the new 1.2 TCe engine which will be inaugurated in 2022 on the second generation Kadjar.
Engineers are testing the new 1.2 TCe (HR12) three-cylinder petrol engine in its 48V mild hybrid version, as indicated by the BSG 48V (Belt-driven Starter Generator) mention, i.e. an electric machine installed on the front of the motor and driven by a belt. This so-called “hot” development mission is used to test the engine under high temperature conditions and under load on mountainous roads from Andalusia to southern Spain. To simulate the same mass as the future Kadjar, the Captur was ballasted, as shown by the compression of the rear suspensions.
New family of E-Tech hybrids
Replacing the current 1.0 TCe, this block will be available in several powers and with several types of hybridizations. On the Kadjar, the 1.2 TCe mild-hybrid 48V will represent the entry level with a power of around 130 hp. Beyond that, the SUV will continue to use the 1.3 TCe (160 hp BVA and BVA 4×4) like its cousin the Nissan Qashqai. The 1.2 TCe will also be the heart of the hybrid versions associated with an evolution of the clutchless gearbox: simple hybrid of 200 hp in autumn 2022 and plug-in hybrid of 280 hp 4×4 in 2024. Both engine and transmission are made in Spain.
