Renault reveals ‘Scenic Vision’, a hydrogen-powered prototype SUV

Renault revealed a prototype hydrogen fuel cell-powered sports utility vehicle (SUV) on Thursday, as the French automaker scrambles to catch up with competitors in the race to cleaner driving.

The automaker said the car, dubbed the ‘Scenic Vision’, is not going to be commercially available before 2030-2032. A fully electric version will enter the market in 2024.

A fuel cell vehicle has an electric motor and it is powered by electricity produced through hydrogen, improving the battery’s range.

A 16kW fuel cell will increase the car’s range to 800km without recharging, and the battery will be two times as light, resulting in a 75% decline in carbon footprint compared to a conventional electric model, according to the automaker.

The Scenic Vision comes as the automaker pushes ahead with preparations to split its electric vehicle and combustion engine businesses.