Techrules Ren turbine-electric supercar unveiled at Geneva
Chinese firm Techrules launched the Ren at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, combining micro-turbine technology with electric drive and a striking Giugiaro-designed body.
Techrules, the Chinese automotive start-up, presented the production version of its Ren supercar at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. The Ren features a hybrid powertrain that combines micro-turbine generators with multiple electric motors, aiming to deliver both extreme performance and long range.
The Ren’s technical centrepiece is its Turbine-Recharging Electric Vehicle (TREV) system. Buyers could specify either one or two micro-turbines that act as range extenders, generating electricity to recharge a 25kWh battery pack. The system supports two, four or six electric motors, with the top specification delivering a claimed 1,287 horsepower and 2,340Nm of torque. This places the Ren among the most powerful production supercars announced at the time.
Techrules claimed a maximum range of 727 miles (1,170km) on a full 80-litre diesel tank, based on the New European Driving Cycle. The company said the Ren could be configured for rear- or all-wheel drive depending on the number of motors selected. The car’s carbon-fibre monocoque and bodywork were designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro and Fabrizio Giugiaro, with a central canopy that lifts on four electric struts. The cockpit seats one, two or three people, with the driver always in the centre.
Design and production plans
The Ren’s styling drew heavily on fighter jet themes, with a low, pointed nose and a canopy reminiscent of a single-seat aircraft. The interior mixed leather and denim upholstery, and featured a self-levelling information screen ahead of the driver. Techrules stated that production would be limited to 96 units, with assembly planned in Italy. Deliveries were originally targeted to begin in 2018, though subsequent reports indicated delays and no confirmed customer cars by 2024.
Context within Geneva Motor Show
The Ren was one of several high-profile supercars to debut at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, alongside models such as the Ferrari 812 Superfast and McLaren 720S. Techrules’ focus on micro-turbine hybrid technology set it apart from traditional petrol and battery-electric rivals. The company positioned the Ren as both a technology demonstrator and a production vehicle, though as of 2024, no evidence has emerged of series production or customer deliveries.
- Turbine-electric powertrain unique among Geneva debuts
- Limited production intended for European assembly
- No confirmed customer cars delivered as of 2024
