French automaker Renault has unveiled a new single-seater electric concept car that it hopes will set a new record for efficiency.
The Renault Filante Record 2025, will be on show at the Rétromobile motor show in Paris from 5 to 9 February 2025, has been designed maximise energy efficiency and to set records for power consumption and range.
With an 87kWh battery – the same as is used in the company’s Scenic E-Tech electric – and measuring 5.12 metres long and only 1.19 metres wide, and concept car was inspired by iconic Renault concept cars such as the 40 CV des Records built in 1925, the Nervasport des Records built in 1934, and the Etoile Filante built in 1956.
Image Credit: Renault
Image Credit: Renault
Image Credit: Renault
Unlike some concept cars, Renault specifically note in their press release that the Filante Record 2025 “is not only an exercise in style, but also a demonstration of exceptional aerodynamic efficiency and cutting-edge technology” and will head out in the first half of the year to attempts to break the efficiency records.
Billed as “laboratory on wheels for testing new technologies, materials, and innovations,” the Renault Filante Record 2025 features unique friction-reducing tyres and steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire technologies.
Every detail of the car’s bodywork has been optimised to reduce drag, yielding a car that harkens back to some of the more stylised Batmobiles, except for the Ultraviolet Blue paintjob.
The single seat cockpit is inspired by the worlds of aviation and space travel in an effort to maximise performance, comfort, and efficiency, and a stretched canvas seat similar to a hammock continues the use of lightweight materials while still providing optimum support and a seat that adapts to the body shape of the driver.
“We designed this vehicle as a sculpture in motion. Inspired by fighter planes and the speed records of the nineteenth century, it reflects both performance and timeless elegance,” said Sandeep Bhambra, director of advanced design at Renault and Ampere.
“Every inch of the surface was crafted to capture the light and showcase the body lines, which appear to melt into the air. The blue windows and colour palette further underline this light and airy impression. The design as a whole seeks to convey an impression of flow and lightness.”
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.