07-09-2006
Renault is unveiling its new Nepta concept car, a four-seater cabriolet
with fluid lines and a thoroughbred profile. The low-slung body shape is an
expression of elegance and movement, while the spacious and comfortable
interior has all the hallmarks of a top-end model.
Nepta is a dynamic four-seater GT cabriolet, offering performance at the wheel
that is worthy of a prestige sedan.
An attractive and dynamic cabriolet
This flowing, elegant four-seater cabriolet is an
expression of Renault’s vision of driving pleasure.
The wave-shaped side panels give an impression of
fluidity and highlight Nepta’s long body shape; an
effect that is further enhanced by the special anodic
aluminium colour treatment on the lower part of the
body shell, the mud flaps and the front and rear
spoilers.
The front end is simple yet expressive. The LED
headlights are made up of three assemblies: the
daytime running lights, the dipped and main beam
headlights and the steering lights. The headlights
use a technology based on the reflection and propagation
of light. The light beam from the main headlights
is reflected by crystal-shaped transparent
blocks that are electronically controlled for more
precise lighting. The quantity and distribution of the
light automatically adapts to the driving conditions.
The rounded forms of the front wings are enhanced
by the innovative boomerang-shaped indicator
lights, positioned at the top of the lighting units.
The long and tapered rear end, which is punctuated
by the crystals of the rear lights, adds a further
sense of movement to Nepta. The overhang is longer
at the rear than at the front, highlighting the vehicle’s
attractive proportions and flowing line. Nepta is an
echo of the golden age of automotive styling, while
remaining resolutely modern and innovative.
Nepta is a combination of the dream car and the
love of fine mechanical engineering. The motor-driven
gull wing doors open to reveal the interior and the
engine, which is elegantly housed in its compartment.
The centrally positioned door hinges are covered by
polished aluminium panels representing a shooting
star that runs the full length of the front bonnet,
contributing to the impression of movement that the
body shell creates.
A luxuriously welcoming
and roomy interior
Nepta boasts all the features found in prestige models
with discreet technology for greater on-board comfort.
The dashboard appears to be suspended,
while the extensions of the
windscreen illuminate the pedal
unit and make for a bright and clear
driving station.
The rev counter and cone-shaped
instruments are surrounded by
leather trim. The design of the
instruments pays tribute to vehicles
of the past, while the aluminium
treatment adds a modern touch.
The combination of analogue and
digital displays is a further expression
of classic cars and the modern era.
The air conditioning controls located
at each end of the dashboard can
be independently adjusted by each
occupant and combine advanced
technology and ease of use.
The intuitive controls are inspired by the Touch
Design approach. The centrally-mounted, rotary gear
shift is easy and comfortable to use. The conveniently
positioned multimedia information controls can be
easily reached, while the stalk switches and control
paddles mounted on the steering wheel are designed
to match the shape of the driver’s hands.
The seats are fixed, but the steering wheel and the
pedals can be adjusted by a motor-driven mechanism
to match the driver’s dimensions.
The dashboard features special storage
compartments for glasses and
other personal objects, while the
central console also has a sliding
cubby located between the rear seats.
The red leather upholstery creates
an impression of continuity between
the vehicle interior and the engine
compartment. Both bench seats are
coated with leather decorated with
printed patterns. The four comfortable
seats are secured to the floor by
aluminium struts reminiscent of
sailing boats.
DVD screens with folding protective covers are installed in the upper sections of the backs of the front seats. The lower sections are decorated with elegant leather netting that is ideal for storing magazines. The rear passengers are protected against turbulence by the transparent air deflectors positioned between the front and rear seats.
A powerplant
designed for pleasure
Nepta’s longitudinally mounted 3.5-liter V6 petrol
engine is the embodiment of pleasure at the wheel.
Article posted on Babez.de. This 420hp powerplant takes just 4.9 seconds to
reach 100kph from a standing start. Coupled to the
seven-speed automatic gearbox with flick-shift
controls mounted on the steering wheel, this direct
injection petrol engine combines an outstanding
drive with a significant reduction.
Text and photos courtesy of Renault
