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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.
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.
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.
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.
Nepta’s longitudinally mounted 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine is the embodiment
of pleasure at the wheel. This 420hp power plant 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 in fuel
consumption and CO2 emissions.
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