Renault has just unveiled an extravagant-looking electric prototype called the Filante Record 2025. As the name suggests, the vehicle was designed with the express intention of setting new records for energy consumption and range.
As impressive as the records may be, any discussion about the Renault Filante Record 2025 has to start with its design. It may only be January, but it’s hard to imagine this single-seater not being among the most visually striking concepts of the year. The elongated vehicle looks like a simplified interpretation of the Batmobile from Tim Burton’s Batman films, with its long nose and giant fenders.
Despite its futuristic vibe, the design is inspired by some of Renault’s iconic cars from past decades, including the 1925 40 CV des Records (which inspired the headlights), the 1934 Nervasport des Records (the stance), and the 1956 Etoile Filante (the fenders).
But the car’s bold exterior, which also features several elements inspired by aerospace engineering, wasn’t created just to look cool. The vehicle’s ultra-slim shape — measuring 201.5 inches in length, just under 17 feet from bumper to bumper — was designed to optimize aerodynamic flow, allowing it to cut through the air with minimal resistance.
“We designed this vehicle as a sculpture in motion. Inspired by fighter planes and 19th-century speed records, it reflects both performance and timeless elegance,” said Sandeep Bhambra, Renault’s Director of Advanced Design, in a statement.
The Filante Record 2025 may look massive, but it’s relatively light, especially compared to other EVs like the Mercedes-Benz EQS, which can weigh over 5,000 pounds. Renault states that the car weighs just 2,204 pounds, which, according to Motor1.com, puts it in the same weight class as a compact sports car like the Mazda Miata. Of this weight, 1,322 pounds come from the concept’s battery alone. Renault managed to limit the rest of the vehicle’s weight to under 900 pounds by using a composite chassis made from a unique blend of aluminum, steel alloys, and carbon fiber. AI simulation software was also used to strip the concept of all but the most necessary parts and materials.
Renault’s announcement does not include details about the powertrain, but the automaker revealed that the prototype is powered by an 87 kWh battery. It shares this capacity with the battery pack found in the company’s Scenic E-Tech, but it’s expected to exceed the compact SUV’s 385-mile range thanks to a special carbon casing. The concept is also equipped with a custom set of 19-inch Michelin tires designed to reduce energy dissipation and maximize contact area.
There don’t appear to be any plans to put the Filante Record 2025 into production, but Renault will build at least one unit to pursue records later this year. The company has been careful not to mention any specific performance targets, but it’s clear that it aims to surpass the range record of the Mercedes-Benz Vision EQXX concept, which achieved 747 miles on a single charge during a trip from Stuttgart, Germany, to Silverstone, England, in 2022.
Source: Robb Report. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
Stay updated with the latest news on our Facebook page.
