Monday, 20 September 2010

Renault Reveal the DeZir

As the Paris motor show draws ever nearer, the debate is hotting up as to which concept will be stealing the show. One of the strong contenders is Renault’s DeZir, an electric concept that is one of six new designs to be overseen by Laurens van den Acker, the manufacturer’s new design head.



The DeZir (spelt as it is pronounced in French) is all about style. It has supercar proportions, being nearly two metres wide and a little over a metre high, with 21 inch wheels and a dramatic red glow, produced by LED lights, that pulses along the spine. It’s certainly a bit of a departure from Renault’s previous styling.


The futuristic concept does hold indications of more practical Renaults to come. The enlarged logo and slatted front grille are features that will be seen on all future Renaults, with the Clio taking inspiration directly from the DeZir. The concept itself could go into limited production. Concept car design director, Alex Breun said, “I could imagine this car for half the price of a Tesla. Why not? Our factory in Dieppe has produced super sports cars in the past.”


The car’s powertrain is a 148bhp electric motor with mid-mounted lithium-ion batteries. Performance-wise, it’ll give the Audi E-Tron a run for its money, with 0-60 in an impressive five seconds and a top speed of 112mph. The powertrain also offers recuperated brake energy – a system by which energy from braking is sent to the battery pack. The range is a reported 100 miles that can be replenished to 80% of full charge in just 20 minutes, using Renault’s Quick Drop fast-charging technology.

The DeZir is a clever car that is sure to receive a lot of attention at the upcoming show. For information about Renault in Wiltshire and Dorset, contact the Westover Group.

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