Renault develops 400-km ground robot designed for dangerous military missions
Photo: Renault unveils an all-wheel-drive UGV with a range of over 400 km (company press service)
Renault Group has unveiled a modular unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) called the Forefront Concept, developed using proven automotive technologies and components, according to the company's press service.
The approach is expected to reduce production costs and accelerate the vehicle's transition to mass production.
The new ground robot can be remotely operated by a human operator or run in autonomous mode, allowing it to navigate difficult and hazardous terrain independently.
Renault Group was responsible for developing the platform, while John Cockerill worked on remote-control and autonomous-driving technologies. The design also took into account the requirements of the French military.
The French Armed Forces are expected to test the Forefront Concept during military exercises and dedicated trials in the near future. Based on the results, Renault will make the necessary design changes and further refine the vehicle using feedback from real-world testing.
The vehicle features two electric motors and a system that controls the wheels on both axles. According to the manufacturer, it can travel approximately 400 km on a single battery charge.
Photo: Renault unveils an all-wheel-drive UGV with a range of over 400 km (company press service)
Its range can be extended by installing an additional module that acts as a range extender. However, the company has not yet disclosed the exact specifications of either the main battery or the additional power unit.
With a payload capacity of up to 1,000 kg, the Forefront Concept can perform a wide range of tasks. Potential applications include cargo transportation and military logistics, counter-drone operations, fire support, and evacuation.
Renault Group emphasizes that the remotely operated platform was designed to be affordable and allow for rapid production scaling. The company has not yet disclosed its price. However, if demand is sufficient, the Forefront Concept could undergo further development and eventually enter mass production.
Earlier, it was reported that the Croatian Komodo UGV, developed by Rheinmetall, successfully completed bridge-laying trials in September.
It was also previously reported that by dropping them from bomber drones.
