Dacia introduces Tribrid powertrain combining gasoline, electricity, and LPG

Dacia has introduced the ‘Tribrid’ powertrain, a unique combination of three energy sources: gasoline, electricity, and autogas (LPG). The technology is designed to simultaneously reduce CO2 emissions and lower fuel costs for drivers.

The Tribrid system is currently available in the Duster 4x4 and Bigster 4x4 SUV models. It utilizes a 1.2-liter mild-hybrid three-cylinder engine that operates in LPG mode to take advantage of fuel that is approximately 40 percent cheaper than standard gasoline. While the electric motor focuses on reducing emissions during standard driving cycles, the LPG component targets economic savings.

Financial benefits vary based on usage. Dacia estimates that for a Bigster model driving 20,000 kilometers annually, users could save roughly 750 euros per year compared to a standard gasoline model. However, this does not account for the higher initial purchase price of the Tribrid technology, which is approximately 5,000 euros more expensive than the Bigster ‘Mild Hybrid 140’ version. Additionally, the Tribrid system includes automatic transmission and electric all-wheel drive, whereas the standard mild hybrid is front-wheel drive with a manual transmission.