Twizy Renault Sport F1 concept

Sticking the Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) from a Formula 1 car into a tiny Twizy electric vehicle and then attaching several aerodynamic appendages is a fairly bonkers idea. But that’s exactly what Renault has just done.

Unveiled at the Spanish plant where the road-going Twizy is built, the Twizy Renault Sport F1 concept is a one-off that boasts six times more power than usual (at least in short bursts).

The KERS set-up comprises an electric motor-generator, control unit and separate lithium-ion batteries. It sits beneath a transparent cover where the rear seat usually is and - for 13 second spurts - augments the Twizy’s standard motor.

KERS usually works via regenerative braking but, because the potential kinetic energy that the Twizy can produce is insufficient, it also has to draw charge from the main motor. Nevertheless, the result is an increase in power from 17 bhp (13 kW / 17 PS) to 96 bhp (72 kW / 97 PS), which is enough for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 6.0 seconds. That makes it as quick as the Mégane Renaultsport 265 hatchback.

With its side pods, carbon fibre front splitter, rear wing and diffuser, there’s no mistaking the F1 concept for anything else. The wheels and slick tyres are borrowed from a Formula Renault single-seat race car, and it even features an F1-style rear rain light and steering wheel.

Of course the Twizy Renault Sport F1 concept isn’t destined for production. However, it could be the ideal basis for a race series, perhaps to support the upcoming FIA Formula E Championship.

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