29 Sep 06 16:19
Renault's Nepta concept is, says Renault, purely a show car, though some of its ideas and details may make it into production vehicles of the future. It's a low-slung four-seat luxury cabrio, meant to represent driving pleasure, elegance and dynamism, and premium-brand comfort.
Neat touches include the way the light beam from the main LED headlights is reflected by crystal-shaped transparent blocks that are electronically controlled for more precision, so the quantity and distribution of the light is automatically adapted to the driving conditions. But the feature that really shows up the Nepta as a concept is the motor-driven gullwing doors, which open to reveal not only the interior but also the engine. The centrally positioned door hinges are covered by a polished aluminium panel that runs the full length of the bonnet.
Inside, the controls include a centrally mounted rotary gear shift, plus stalk switches and steering wheel-mounted control paddles that are designed to match the form of the driver's hands. The seats are fixed, but the position of the steering wheel and pedals can be adjusted by a motor-driven mechanism to adapt it to the driver. The dashboard features special stowage compartments for glasses and other items, while the centre console incorporates a sliding cubby located between the rear seats.
Red leather upholstery - intended to create an impression of continuity between the interior and the engine compartment - covers two bench seats providing seating for four. Rear passengers are protected from turbulence by transparent air deflectors positioned between the front and rear seats.
The Nepta is fitted with a longitudinally mounted 420bhp 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, coupled with a seven-speed automatic transmission, claimed to do 0-62mph in 4.9.
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