Renault unveils U1st Vision: A cutting-edge mobile hospital

At the recent VivaTech show in Paris, Renault and the Software République collective of companies introduced the U1st Vision concept, an innovative commercial vehicle with the potential to address a variety of challenges. This vehicle is built on the FlexEVan electric modular platform, created by Flexis – a partnership between Renault, Volvo Group, and CMA CGM – and is scheduled for release in 2026. The U1st Vision will feature 800V architecture, enabling rapid full charging in just 18 minutes. The vehicle will also be equipped with Qualcomm supercomputers for predictive maintenance and a Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) infrastructure, allowing for continuous updates.

The U1st Vision includes an autonomous “pop-up” module located above the floor that contains the vehicle’s batteries. This module can be configured for different purposes, quickly transforming into a mobile bicycle repair service or a mobile medical emergency center. The health module, in particular, is seen as a solution to medical deserts where healthcare access is lacking. Software République projects that the “health pop-up” could cover up to 85% of essential health examinations and tests, facilitating decision-making for health authorities to deploy the module efficiently and relieve pressure on local health services.

The interior of the health module is designed to maximize space optimization, accommodating medical equipment like mini-radiologies. It is completely self-sufficient in terms of energy and water, allowing it to remain operational for multiple days in a specific location. Equipped with 22 medical instruments, including tools for PCR tests, vision tests, hearing tests, and comprehensive check-ups, the health module is guided by qualified personnel or a virtual assistant with artificial intelligence, along with the ability to consult a doctor via video conference.

Scheduled for production at the Sandouville plant beginning in 2026, the FlexEVan modular platform will be available for purchase. In the interim, Software République aims to develop and deploy pop-up modules on existing commercial vehicle chassis, such as the Renault Master or Trafic, starting in the first half of 2025. This ambitious project intends to provide essential services, such as healthcare, directly to communities in need, meeting the demands of a more interconnected world.