Renault Group has developed an all-electric, all-wheel-drive modular electric vehicle for military operations. Dubbed the Forefront Concept, it uses proven automotive components to keep costs down and boost production times.

The electric field vehicle was designed for both defense and civilian applications, and can be remotely operated by a human or sent into high-risk, hard-to-reach areas on its own, using its autonomous driving capabilities.

Renault Group built the vehicle, while John Cockerill designed the EV’s remote-operation and autonomy functions. The defense company listened to input from the French armed forces, which will use the Forefront Concept in several exercises and trials in the coming weeks to put it through its paces. After the trials, Renault will further refine the concept based on operational feedback.

Powered by two electric motors, the cab-less field machine has four-wheel steering and can travel in complete silence in some of the harshest terrain. The French automaker said the projected range is roughly 250 miles (400 kilometers) on a full charge, but an add-on range extender can further extend the driving distance. That said, Renault didn’t say how much energy the on-board battery or range extender can store.

With a 2,200-pound (1-tonne) payload, the dual-motor buggy can be used for logistics support, anti-drone operations, fire support, and evacuation. In highly disputed areas, sending in a vehicle that doesn’t have a human behind a steering wheel means fewer potential casualties. At the same time, the Forefront Concept can be used by companies that need a safe way to access dangerous sites.

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