Renault's Ellypse concept promotes environmental harmony

November, A blend of environmentally friendly design, a new-generation low emission diesel engine, 42-volt electrics and advanced drive-by-wire technology, the Ellypse concept unveiled by Renault at the 2002 Paris Motor Show is one of several new projects aimed at promoting harmony between automobile and environment.Ellypse showcases the intuitive Touch Design technology that first appeared on Talisman concept and the multi-function central control fitted to the bottom of the dashboard operates many of the onboard features such as air-conditioning, GPS navigation, extensive real-time diagnostics, plus an electronic maintenance manual and log book.

Space inside the cabin is optimised through the use of slim "ingenious" seats that allow the user to automatically recline from a driving position to a resting position on the curved floor that incorporates an ergonomic pillow in its design for complete comfort.

The right side of the 3.9-metre long hatchback also contains a two-way opening system that allows the rear door to be tilted outward to maximise the entry into the huge open interior space created by the absence of a central pillar.

Visually the Ellypse is designed as a friendly, accessible vehicle with its wrap-around windscreen and the shape of its headlamps and of the radiator grille giving it a non-aggressive "cheerful air" according to Renault.

The environmental aspects of the design are bolstered by the use of solar cells along the transparent roof panel that optimise air-conditioning inside the cabin and a four-way catalytic converter that simultaneously processes carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, unburnt hydrocarbons and particulates from the 16-valve 1200cc turbodiesel engine.

Components were also chosen for easy disassembly and recycling and the number of parts was deliberately limited - for example the bonnet, bumper and radiator grille are a single part.