Renault’s 1.8 NA Strong Hybrid (E-Tech 160) on the Duster isn’t just another hybrid option in the midsize SUV segment - it’s a genuinely sophisticated series-parallel system with F1-inspired engineering that stands apart from the usual Indian-market hybrids. Let’s break down why this setup is more interesting than it first appears: 1) EV-first in the city The system always starts in pure electric mode. With a relatively large 1.4 kWh battery (noticeably bigger than the 0.6 kWh packs in the Hyryder/Grand Vitara/Victoris), Renault claims up to 80% of city driving can be done on electric power alone under the right conditions. The traction motor handles the wheels; the engine stays off when it isn’t needed. 2) Series-parallel architecture Unlike a pure series hybrid or a simple parallel setup, the E-Tech can operate in multiple ways: Pure EV (electric motor drives the wheels) Series (engine runs as a generator, electric motor drives) Parallel (engine + electric motor both drive the wheels) Engine-only for efficient cruising It switches between these automatically depending on speed, load and battery state. 3) The multi-mode DHT (Dedicated Hybrid Transmission) This is the clever part. Renault uses a F1-inspired multi-mode gearbox with no conventional clutch or synchronisers (dog-box style). It has 2 electric gears + 4 petrol gears, giving 15 possible combinations. The high-voltage starter-generator handles starting and synchronisation electrically. Result: smoother transitions and better optimisation of both efficiency and response compared with a traditional e-CVT power-split setup. 4) The ENGINE A 1.8-litre naturally aspirated 4-cylinder running on the Atkinson cycle with high thermal efficiency . It’s quieter and more refined than the 3-cylinder units in the current Toyota/Maruti strong hybrids, and it only comes in when it makes sense, either to generate electricity or to drive the wheels directly at higher speeds. Combined system output: 160 PS Electric motor torque: 208 Nm Claimed 0-100 km/h: 9.6 seconds ARAI-certified efficiency: 29 kmpl Battery: 1.4 kWh (self-charging, no plug needed) That’s meaningfully more power than the 116 PS 1.5L hybrids currently on sale, with a stronger electric presence in the city. 5) How it compares in practice The Hyryder/Grand Vitara/Victoris are excellent efficiency tools, but their e-CVT power-split system often keeps the engine engaged and can feel a bit strained under load. The E-Tech’s dual-motor + multi-mode DHT approach is designed for more seamless electric running in town and stronger combined performance when you ask for it. Whether the real-world refinement matches the promise will depend on calibration, but on paper this is the most technically ambitious strong hybrid we’ve seen in this segment in India so far. 6) My take Don’t just look at the 29 kmpl figure. The interesting part is the architecture , larger battery, proper 4-cylinder Atkinson engine, series-parallel flexibility and an F1-inspired multi-mode transmission. If Renault has calibrated it well, the Duster Strong Hybrid should offer a more refined and responsive hybrid experience than the current 1.5L options, while still delivering strong efficiency without needing a charger. Worth experiencing for the engineering alone. Let me know what you guys think!

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