Renault has unveiled its Vision4Rescue concept car, remodelling the hotly anticipated electric crossover to reinvent emergency response vehicles.

The concept features nearly 20 interconnected solutions that include a surveillance drone

Designed as a mobile, connected command centre, the fully operational vehicle gets a sturdy, raised body style that’s kitted out with high-tech interconnected solutions by Software République.

Featuring nearly 20 interconnected solutions that include a surveillance drone, it’s designed to standardise the different technologies used by the emergency services for a faster and better coordinated response.

The integrated roof bars carry a large aerodynamic capsule, designed to house an observation drone along with a range of equipment developed by Software République to restore a communications network in the wake of a disaster. The capsule also features Combustion Red paintwork highlighted by a blue LED light strip fitted around the base.

The split boot features two sections; the upper replaces the rear parcel shelf with a sliding desktop and two screens connected to a high-powered computer, turning the vehicle into an office on wheels. This allows the emergency services to control the observation drone and communicate with other players on the ground using the connection antennas in the roof box.

The lower section features two storage boxes designed to hold the emergency equipment required by firefighters, including helmets and bags, as well as electronic equipment (tablets, walkie-talkies, etc.), which remains charged at all times.

The exterior adopts graphic codes inspired by the world of rescue services, with sharp contrasts between the matt and glossy materials used on the vehicle. The new Combustion Red bodywork was inspired by the rippling colours of fire, highlighted by fluorescent yellow-green lines running diagonally, “expressing urgency”.

The interior was designed in close collaboration with fire services and with an express focus on safety. For example, the rear door crosspiece includes a reflective strip, clearly indicating to people outside the vehicle that the doors are open.

As with the production Renault 4 E-Tech electric, the materials used on the concept are partially recycled. The seats are made partly from foam that has been recycled from firefighting suits, which are already fire-resistant.

The Vision4Rescue concept car also gets higher ground clearance and a second electric motor on the rear axle for permanent all-wheel drive, allowing it to carry out its mission on any type of terrain. There’s no details on powertrain specifics but the production Renault 4 features a 150hp electric motor with a 0-62mph sprint time of 8.2 seconds and a 52kWh battery for a WLTP driving range of up to 247 miles.