The Techrules Ren, specifically the 28.4 kWh (1305 Hp) AWD Automatic variant, is a limited-production, full hybrid electric vehicle (FHEV) coupe unveiled in 2017. Representing a bold entry into the emerging hypercar market, the Ren aimed to combine extreme performance with a unique turbine-generator powertrain. Production numbers were extremely limited, making it a rare and highly exclusive vehicle. The Ren was positioned as a technology demonstrator, showcasing Techrules’ innovative approach to sustainable performance. It utilized a complex powertrain designed to extend the range of electric driving while delivering substantial power.
Techrules Ren 28.4 kWh (1305 Hp) AWD Automatic: A Detailed Overview
The 28.4 kWh variant of the Techrules Ren represents the highest-performance iteration of the model. It distinguishes itself from potential future, lower-powered versions through its substantial electric motor output and sophisticated energy recovery system. The Ren’s design philosophy centered around maximizing efficiency and minimizing environmental impact without sacrificing the thrill of a high-performance sports car. The vehicle’s single-door coupe body style further emphasized its exclusivity and futuristic aesthetic.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The core of the Techrules Ren 28.4 kWh is its Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle (FHEV) powertrain. Unlike traditional hybrids, the Ren employs a turbine-generator system. A small, turbocharged internal combustion engine (specifications not fully disclosed, but confirmed to be turbocharged and intercooled) drives a generator, which in turn charges the battery pack and powers the electric motors. This allows for continuous operation of the electric motors, extending range and providing consistent power delivery. The 28.4 kWh lithium-polymer (LiPo) battery pack provides the primary energy storage. The system boasts a total power output of 1305 horsepower, derived from the combined output of the turbine-generator and the electric motors.
The vehicle utilizes two electric motors – one driving the front wheels and one driving the rear wheels, resulting in an all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration. The single-speed automatic transmission is specifically designed to handle the high torque output of the electric motors. The torque figure is an impressive 2340 Nm (1725.9 lb.-ft.), contributing to the Ren’s blistering acceleration. The battery operates at a high voltage of 710V, requiring specialized handling and safety measures.
Driving Characteristics
The Techrules Ren 28.4 kWh delivers exceptional performance figures. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) is claimed to be 3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a calculated 2.9 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 300 km/h (186.41 mph). The AWD system provides excellent traction, allowing for rapid acceleration even in less-than-ideal conditions. The single-speed transmission offers seamless power delivery, eliminating the need for gear changes. The turbine-generator system ensures that the electric motors remain powered even during sustained high-speed driving, preventing battery depletion. The weight-to-power ratio of 1.2 kg/Hp (800.6 Hp/tonne) further enhances the vehicle’s agility and responsiveness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Given the limited production run and high price point, the Techrules Ren 28.4 kWh was offered with a high level of standard equipment. The interior featured a minimalist design with a focus on driver engagement. Details regarding specific interior upholstery options are scarce, but the vehicle was expected to offer premium materials and bespoke customization options. The single-door configuration necessitated a unique ingress and egress process. The dashboard layout was driver-focused, with digital displays providing key information about the powertrain and vehicle performance. While specific optional extras were not widely publicized, potential options likely included personalized interior trim, advanced driver-assistance systems, and bespoke paint finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The Techrules Ren utilizes a lightweight chassis construction to minimize weight and maximize performance. The suspension system employs a double wishbone configuration at both the front and rear, providing precise handling and ride comfort. The braking system features ventilated discs with 380×37 mm rotors at the front and 355×35 mm rotors at the rear, ensuring ample stopping power. The inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock braking system) further enhances safety. The steering system is a rack and pinion type with electric power steering, providing responsive and accurate steering feel. The vehicle is equipped with 265/35 R22 tires mounted on 8.5J x 22 inch wheel rims.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Techrules Ren received significant attention from the automotive press due to its innovative powertrain and ambitious performance claims. Critics praised the vehicle’s unique approach to hybrid technology and its potential to deliver sustainable performance. However, the limited production run and lack of widespread availability hindered its market impact. Compared to other hypercars of the era, the Ren offered a different proposition – a focus on efficiency and range extension alongside extreme performance. Fuel economy is rated at 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l), a surprisingly reasonable figure for a vehicle with its power output. Reliability data is limited due to the small production volume, but the turbine-generator system presented a novel engineering challenge that required careful monitoring and maintenance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Techrules |
| Model | Ren |
| Generation | Ren |
| Type (Engine) | 28.4 kWh (1305 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 1 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (US mpg) | 31.4 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (UK mpg) | 37.7 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (km/l) | 13.3 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 2.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 300 km/h (186.41 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 1.2 kg/Hp, 800.6 Hp/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 28.4 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 710 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-polymer (LiPo) |
| Electric motor power | 1305 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 2340 Nm (1725.9 lb.-ft.) |
| System power | 1305 Hp |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4694 mm (184.8 in.) |
| Width | 2048 mm (80.63 in.) |
| Height | 1200 mm (47.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2724 mm (107.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1818 mm (71.57 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1808 mm (71.18 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Two electric motors drive the rear wheels. Two electric motors drive the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 380×37 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 355×35 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/35 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 22 |
Legacy
The Techrules Ren, while not a mainstream success, remains a significant vehicle in the history of hybrid technology. Its innovative turbine-generator powertrain demonstrated a unique approach to extending the range of electric vehicles and reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels. In the used car market, the Ren is exceptionally rare and commands a high price due to its exclusivity and technological significance. The long-term reliability of the powertrain remains largely unknown due to the limited number of vehicles produced, but the complexity of the system suggests that specialized maintenance and expertise are required. The Ren serves as a testament to Techrules’ ambition and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering.
