Renault’s new EV trio set for CV Show

Developed under the Flexis joint venture between Renault Group, Volvo Group and CMA CGM, the three models are built on a common EV-native ‘skateboard platform’ with a software-defined vehicle (SDV) electronic architecture developed by Renault’s inhouse Ampere EV division.

SDVs mark a radical new approach to vehicle design. Previously, vehicles were designed around a chassis and an ICE or electric powertrain. Manufacturers would then add on all the electronic features and pre-equipment packs required for the various functions and versions. This approach to vehicle design involved a huge number of ECUs – up to 80 per vehicle – with a limiting effect on performance and the integration of new features.

Ampere’s new SDV approach adopts a similar approach to the most powerful computers, using a single platform with centralised software architecture and a connected, intelligent operating system to control, analyse and upgrade vehicle functions quickly and reliably.

This means the experience could be enhanced for business users, with functions tailored to their activity and requirements. Vehicles with specific functions, such as ambulances, fire engines, police vehicles, refrigerated vehicles and other conversions, could include dedicated apps for unique, centralised operation of each component.

Predictive maintenance, already available on existing vehicles, will also become even more precise with the greater computing capacity and intelligence of SDV architecture. This will make it possible to track the wear and tear of some parts in real time and to initiate remote diagnostics in order to plan for repairs or take direct corrective action where possible.

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