Autocanon de 47 Renault
| Industry | Automotive, Military vehicles |
|---|---|
| Founded | February 25, 1899 in France |
| Founder | Louis Renault, Marcel Renault, Fernand Renault |
| Headquarters | France |
| Products | Automobiles, armoured vehicles |
The Autocanon de 47 Renault was an armoured vehicle developed by Renault in 1915.
History
In 1914, the French military aimed to improve mechanized fire support, leading to the creation of "Auto-canons," armoured cars equipped with rapid-fire artillery. Lieutenant Villeneuve-Bargnemont partnered with Renault to design a prototype utilizing a commercial 2.7-ton truck chassis. This prototype was delivered on August 15, 1915; however, as front stabilization reduced operational necessity, only four units were ultimately produced. The vehicle's 15 horsepower engine lacked sufficient power and frequently overheated due to limited ventilation through the armoured grille. Moreover, the weight of the armoured cabin placed excessive strain on the front suspension. These vehicles were deployed sparingly in northern France and were dismantled shortly after the conclusion of World War I.
Description
Constructed on the Renault Type EP commercial truck platform with a 3-meter wheelbase, this vehicle featured front steering and rear-wheel drive, with the driver positioned on the right side. The engine was installed at the front, ahead of the radiator. The armoured cabin design was similar to that of the Auto-mitrailleuse Renault Modèle 1914, characterized by sloped armour plates tapering over the engine compartment. An armoured ammunition storage was mounted behind the cabin, while the cargo bed remained unarmoured but was designed to fold down to facilitate gunner access.
Its main weapon was a 47mm Mle 1902 gun mounted on a pedestal between the wheel arches, shielded by protective armour. This setup allowed for a firing arc of 270° towards the rear, with elevation capabilities up to 25° and depression down to 10°, providing flexible engagement options on the battlefield.
References
- Pejčoch Ivo: Obrněná technika 13 - První světová válka, publisher Svět křídel, Cheb, 2014.
- Autocanon de 47 mm Renault (Russian)
- Tank Encyclopedia