2013 Renault Espace

French carmaker Renault plans to extend the life of its fourth generation Espace MPV for at least a year or so with a minor update that brings its front-end styling in line with the rest of the brand while also improving the 7-seater model's environmental and fuel economy credentials.

New Renault Espace features Renault's new styling identity which reasserts the model's personality by ensuring an even more dynamic stance. As is the case with all the brand's new vehicles, the Renault logo is more prominent, more upright and stands out even more clearly against a broad black grille bar which is itself picked out by chrome strips.

Under the hood, two different engines are available. The 2.0-liter dCi has outputs of 130 PS (96 kW / 128 hp), 150 PS (110 kW / 148 hp) and 175 PS (129 kW / 173 hp). When connected to a manual transmission, the engine averages 5.7 L/100km (41.3 mpg US / 49.6 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 150 g/km. With the automatic gearbox, the figures drop to 6.4 L/100km (36.8 mpg US / 44.1 mpg UK) and 169 g/km.

Inside, the luxury Initiale Paris version has been updated with visible stitching for the dashboard and new leather and Alcantara upholstery for the rest of the cabin.





Press Release

New Renault Espace: continuing to define luxury...

Twenty-eight years after the launch of the original, New Renault Espace continues the model's success story which has seen sales exceed 1.2 million units.

New Renault Espace's front-end styling features Renault's new identity for even more dynamic and status-enhancing appeal.

More environmentally-respectful engines for significant fuel consumption and CO2 emissions savings, plus an appreciable reduction in the ‘eco-surtax' applicable in France.

The MPV's pioneer still stands out as the best travelling experience for seven occupants and the model continues to be perfected with the addition of even more technology, including a new reversing camera.
"It was important to restore Espace's appeal and CO2 credentials in what is a very competitive segment," says Laurent Bernard, the Espace Programme's Deputy Director. "The aim is to keep our customers loyal and prepare a smooth build-up to the introduction of the next-generation Espace."

A new styling identity which respects the Espace's inherent iconic appeal

New Renault Espace features Renault's new styling identity which reasserts the model's personality by ensuring an even more dynamic stance. As is the case with all the brand's new vehicles, the Renault logo is more prominent, more upright and stands out even more clearly against a broad black grille bar which is itself picked out by chrome strips.

Other details which accentuate New Espace's more dynamic, status-enhancing looks include new ‘Hurlingham' wheel trims and new ‘Monterey' and ‘Dark Eptius' alloy wheels.

Meanwhile, the elegantly-appointed cabin of the Initiale Paris version has been embellished with visible stitching for the model's hallmark dashboard. The sensation of comfort and wellbeing for all occupants is further emphasised by the leather and Alcantara® upholsteries.

Even greater respect for the environment: CO2 emissions reduced by 20g/km (equivalent to a fuel consumption saving of 0.8 litres/100km) for the diesel version, and by 6g/km (0.3 litres/100km) in the case of the petrol version.

Coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox, the 130hp, 150hp and 175hp versions of the 2.0 dCi engine (M9R) emit just 150g of CO2/km* (a saving of 20g/km), equivalent to fuel consumption of 5.7 litres/100km* (down 0.8 litres/100km). The state ‘eco-surtax' applicable in France has come down accordingly by €550.

Mated to automatic transmission, the same engines emit 169g of CO2/km* (a saving of 20g/km), equivalent to fuel consumption of 6.4 litres/100km* (down 0.8 litres/100km). Here again, the ‘eco-surtax' applied by the French state has been reduced by €550.

The 175hp version with manual gearbox delivers the segment's lowest CO2 emissions for its power output.

With the 2.0 dCi engine under the bonnet, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have come down by 1.7 litres/100km and 27g/km respectively over a period of six years since this powerplant became available for Espace in 2006.

In the case of the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine (F4Rt), CO2 emissions have fallen to 198g/km* (a saving of 6g/km), equivalent to fuel consumption of 8.5 litres/100km* (down 0.3 litres/100km).

These results were achieved by the engineers' work on:

- Evolutions to the diesel engines: introduction of ESM technology (braking and deceleration energy recovery), a variable displacement oil pump, advanced cooling management and cold loop EGR (exhaust gas recirculation).

- Chassis and running gear improvements: a three-percent improvement in CdA thanks to revised underbody shielding, plus new low rolling resistance tyres and electro-hydraulic power steering.

The MPV's pioneer continues to be perfected

All the strengths that have helped forge Renault Espace's success have been carried over to the latest version, including vast cabin space and a modular layout, as well as a level of comfort and visibility that all occupants will appreciate.

New Renault Espace continues to propose the large seven-seat MPV segment's most occupant-friendly cabin, including seven real seats and a brightly lit interior thanks to a large opening sunroof.

New Renault Espace's upholstery features an innovative textile which repels water- and oil-based liquids. Renault is the first carmaker to propose Teflon® Automotive High Protection textile which protects individual fibres without affecting their appearance, comfort or feel. This innovation is particularly ideal for family vehicles since it prevents stains from becoming incrusted and facilitates the cleaning of upholsteries to ensure they maintain their ‘new' feel durably.

To facilitate manoeuvring and parking, New Renault Espace is available with a reversing camera. The driver benefits from precise indications thanks to a graphic overlay of the vehicle's volumes on the colour image displayed on the screen of the navigation system's screen which is positioned centrally and high up on the dashboard.

Also available for Espace, irrespective of equipment level, is a DVD player complete with two seven-inch screens built into the back of the front head rests. This multimedia feature will delight children and is a factory-fitment in order to ensure an irreproachable quality finish and less risk of theft.

New Renault Espace's equipment list continues with a range of technologies designed to take the stress out of motoring and make life easier for occupants. Standard features for all versions include connected Carminat TomTom Live® navigation system, a hands-free card, an electronic parking brake and comprehensive connectivity (Bluetooth® audio streaming, AUX and USB sockets).

Last but not least, New Renault Espace's cabin layout is as modular as ever thanks to seat rails which enable the seats to be positioned exactly according to the needs of the moment. New Renault Espace's interior can be rearranged at will to guarantee the highest level of comfort for up to seven occupants.

New Renault Espace, which is manufactured at Renault's Sandouville factory (France), comes with the guarantee of Renault's design, build and dynamic quality, as well as carefully selected materials to maintain the model's status as a modern incarnation of French-made, high-end luxury.

2012 Renault Clio R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7

Renault announced that will release a special limited edition Clio RS Red Bull Racing RB7.

According to the car manufacturer, the Renault Clio RS Red Bull Racing RB7 is coming with a Profond Black exterior and Sirius Yellow accents, Red Bull badging, checkered roof and 18-inch wheels wrapped in Bridgestone RE050A tires.

The car is powered by the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 203-hp and 215 Nm of torque, enough to accelerate the small “monster” from 0 to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds and up to a top speed of 140 mph.

On the inside the car received a pair or yellow fabric Recaro bucket seats, an RS badged gear lever knob, a personalised numbered plaque, an audio connection box and an RS Monitor which displays performance related data such as 0 to 100 Km/h times and other information aimed at fine-tuning driving styles - in real time.

The new Clio R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7 was built as a tribute to Renault Sport Technologies and Renault Sport F1, and will be offered in limited edition to just five European countries. It will be priced at €27,900 (about $36,600 at the current exchange rates).




Press Release

Renault Clio R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7: quintessentially sporty

• To celebrate its Formula 1 Constructors' world crown with Red Bull Racing in 2011, Renault Sport has released a limited edition version of Clio R.S.: Clio R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7...

• A vehicle dedicated to performance (Cup chassis, 18-inch black Interlagos wheels, R.S. Monitor, etc.), with forceful looks

• Clio R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7 will be marketed in five countries: France, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium and Austria. Order books open on March 14 in France where the car's tax-paid price will be €27,900

"Clio R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7 is a hot hatch combining stunning looks with the very latest features to have been developed by the wizards at Renault Sport Technologies," enthuses Jean-Maxime Boulanger, Clio Renault Sport Product Manager. "Clio R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7 is a dynamic car which will definitely turn heads. It is a tribute to the very close ties that exist between Renault Sport Technologies and Renault Sport F1!"

A powerful design and cutting-edge technologies
Clio R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7, the latest limited-edition version of Clio R.S., capitalises on the basic model's acclaimed strengths, something which is sure not to escape sporting car and motorsport enthusiasts. Its 18-inch black Interlagos wheels are equipped with Bridgestone RE050A tyres, the same as those fitted to Mégane R.S. Trophy which established a new lap record round the Nürburgring's Nordschleife in June 2011. Its Profond Black body colour provides a striking contrast with its Sirius Yellow F1-style blade, door mirror housings and diffuser. Meanwhile, its two-litre 203-horsepower engine has been carefully tuned to deliver more than 100hp per litre! These sporty credentials are echoed by the Renault Sport chequered-pattern roof decal which combines with the Red Bull Racing badging on the doors.
These exterior features merely serve to highlight Clio R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7's extreme, powerful stance.

High-end sporty interior appointments
Clio R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7's excellence and aggressive, sporty looks are mirrored by an interior equipment package to match. The list includes automatic climate control, automatic headlight activation, a hands-free card, yellow fabric Recaro bucket seats, a Renault Sport-badged gear lever knob, a personalised numbered plaque and an audio connection box. It also features R.S. Monitor, an electronic on-board driving coach which displays performance-related data - such as 0-100kph times and other information aimed at fine-tuning driving styles - in real time. Clio R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7's exceptional equipment specification is sure to find favour with owners who have a taste for technology and sporty performance.
The car eloquently showcases the transfer of skills between Renault's expertise in Formula 1 (Red Bull Racing, Lotus F1 Team, Caterham F1 Team and Williams F1 Team will all benefit from Renault power in 2012) and the brand's road cars.
Clio R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7 badge is the first limited edition in a series which go on to include Twingo R.S. and Mégane R.S.

Clio R.S. background information
Since its launch in the second half of 2006, Clio R.S. has been made in Dieppe, France, and is today marketed on four continents: Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania. It was developed by Renault Sport Technologies and has always sought to stand out as a benchmark in hot hatch comparison tests. It is this approach which has led Clio R.S. to be fine-tuned over time thanks to a number of improvements, including the introduction of revised styling in 2009. Its career has been buoyed by the release on all its markets of bespoke limited editions versions like Clio R.S. Ange & Démon, R.S. 20th Anniversaire and the emblematic Gordini R.S.

2012 Renault Koleos Bose

Renault has releases the 2012 Koleos Bose special edition. According to the carmaker, the Renault Koleos Bose Special Edition, is coming with Bose side badging, aluminum colored door mirror housings, Bose sound system with seven loud speakers and a subwoofer, CD player with MP3 playback, a 60/40 split rear bench seat without the Easy Estate system, the Bose badge aluminum sills and some visible grey stitching.

Interior styling - 60/40-split rear bench seat without “Easy Estate” system(- “Bose”-badged aluminium sills(- Specific Black Lacquer interior trim details(- Mixed black fabric upholstery with visible grey stitching

Power comes from a 2.0-liter dCi diesel engine with 150 hp and 320 Nm of torque. It can be paired to a six-speed manual with front-wheel drive or six-speed manual with all-wheel drive or six-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive.

Prices for New Renault Koleos Bose® Edition start from €29,400 in France. Order books open in January 2012.




Press Release

Koleos takes front stage once again with the release of a new 'Bose® Edition' version

• Early 2012 will see the New Renault Koleos range extended with the introduction of a limited edition Bose® Edition version.
• In addition to a Bose® audio system that has been tailor-engineered to match the properties of Koleos' cabin, the new version will feature specific exterior styling and interior appointments.
• The Bose® Edition version of the Phase 1 Koleos proved extremely successful, accounting for almost 30 percent of the model's sales in 2011 across Europe.
• Prices for New Renault Koleos Bose® Edition start from €29,400 in France. Order books open in January 2012.

Available in some 20 countries worldwide, the initial Bose® Edition limited edition version of the model accounted for almost 30 percent of Phase 1 Koleos' sales across Europe in 2011. This popularity did not only concern Koleos, however, since Mégane and Laguna have both also benefited from the innovative partnership Renault enjoys with Bose®.

To build on this success, this limited edition has been carried over to New Renault Koleos and is poised to appear in Renault's French showrooms next March. Its return is seen as an opportunity to pursue the positive dynamic which followed the launch of New Koleos in September.

New Renault Koleos Bose® Edition is positioned as an attractive core-range version, which combines the refined listening pleasure delivered by Bose® Premium sound, with modern, distinctive styling. Based on the Carminat equipment level, it is powered by the reliable and highly efficient 2.0 dCi 150 engine which can be mated to one of three types of transmission: six-speed manual/front-wheel drive, six-speed manual/4x4 or six-speed automatic/4x4.

Koleos Bose® Edition's appeal has been further enhanced thanks to the incorporation of a number of specific styling details, including:

- aluminium-coloured door mirror housings,
- extra-tinted rear glass,
- coloured 17-inch alloy wheels,
- and Black Lacquer interior trim details, plus mixed black fabric upholstery.

imited edition Koleos Bose® Edition = Carminat equipment level, plus:
(for a description of the Carminat equipment level, see the 'French Range' press release dated July 5, 2011)

Exterior styling

- "Bose" side badging
- Aluminium-coloured door mirror housings
- Extra-tinted rear glass

Equipment

- Bose® Sound System with seven loudspeakers and woofer, CD player with MP3 playback
- Plug&Music digital connectivity (USB + jack)

Interior styling

- 60/40-split rear bench seat without "Easy Estate" system
- "Bose"-badged aluminium sills
- Specific Black Lacquer interior trim details
- Mixed black fabric upholstery with visible grey stitching

Chief options available for the limited edition Koleos Bose® Edition

- 18-inch "Australe" aluminium alloy wheels: €500
- European mapping for Carminat TomTom navigation: €120

Available body colours

Glacier White / Perle White / Mars Grey / Minéral Beige / Metallic Black

Renault Wind Gordini by Gibson

Unveiled at the Rock En Seine music festival, Renault and Gibson collaborate to create a one-off special based on the Renault Wind Gordini. Some otakus are familiar because this is the brand of the guitar Yui Hirasawa used on K-ON (take note, the Gibson Les Paul).



Wind ‘Gordini by Gibson’ features a blue livery with two white stripes, yet the colours and materials it employs also explore one or two other ideas.



The Wind Gordini by Gibson’s interior is a little more original. Six real guitar strings are hand-stitched into each leather seat back and the radio knobs are replaced with Gibson guitar knobs. The Gibson logo is proudly featured on the leather-upholstered dashboard and on the seat backs, just above the Gordini logo. There are other minor changes like chrome air vents, chrome door handles and white seat belts.











Press Release



Renault Gordini and Gibson in tune with a special show car and guitar at the Rock En Seine Festival



To mark its second year at the Rock En Seine music festival, near Paris, France, Gordini has teamed up with Gibson to produce a one-off show car and an equally unique 'Gordini by Gibson' electric guitar. Gates open at 2:30pm on August 26, 2011.



- The leather seats of the Renault Wind-based 'Gordini by Gibson' show car incorporate real guitar strings, in addition to a host of other rocking details.



- Gibson's iconic SG model from 1961 has been treated to a stunning makeover featuring the familiar Gordini blue with white stripes.



Gordini and Gibson: a shared passion for innovation



There will be plenty to please the ears and eyes of Parisian festival goers this weekend thanks to a display comprising the one-off Wind 'Gordini by Gibson' show car plus five striking Gibson SG '61 guitars in Gordini colours. The early 1960s saw Gordini and Gibson both revolutionise their respective worlds with the introduction of a sporting version of the Renault 8 for the former and the release of the SG electric guitar in the case of Gibson. The two brands have long been reputed for the accent they place on innovation and their open-minded approach to the future is founded on the same sense of freedom. The fact that Gibson and Gordini have joined forces for this project could but inspire Renault's designers...



"We had tremendous fun designing the Wind-based 'Gordini by Gibson' show car and carrying Gordini's visual identity over to the Gibson SG '61 guitar," says Julia Macfarlane, colours and materials designer at Renault. "I hope that we succeed in conveying the passion that fired us throughout the project and that visitors to the Rock en Seine festival will like the result."





Guitar strings for the Wind 'Gordini by Gibson' show car's leather seats



Wind 'Gordini by Gibson' is a two-part harmony based on the two brands' respective styling cues. Unsurprisingly, Wind 'Gordini by Gibson' features a blue livery with two white stripes, yet the colours and materials it employs also explore one or two other ideas. In addition to the two hallmark white stripes which extend over the bonnet and blue roof, hints of gloss black feature across the bodywork, while Gibson logos are visible on the doors. An original attraction of the show car's blue and white leather upholstery is the incorporation of genuine guitar strings which have been hand-sewn into the leather seats. Meanwhile, embroidered Gibson logos feature on the seat backs and blue leather-trimmed dashboard, while the seat belt straps are white and chrome has been used for the air vents and door handles. Last but not least, the guitar potentiometer knob used for the audio system's volume control adds a 'fun' touch to the intrinsically switched-on and off-beat Wind 'Gordini by Gibson' show car.





Gordini treatment for the SG '61 electric guitar



The guitar selected by Gibson to fly Gordini's colours is a reissue of the original 1961 SG, a radical electric guitar in its day which went on to make its own contribution to the Gibson legend. The striking graphics formed by the Gordini blue and two white stripes lend themselves perfectly to a variety of schemes, as illustrated by the special Gordini SG '61's blue solid body and two white stripes, plus a Gordini logo on the headstock which tops its ebony neck. As they play this magnificent object, those festival goers who take part in the Gordini guitar solo competition will get a chance to sample the model's timeless looks, playability and technical strengths. Contestants also stand a chance to win one these fine guitars as a function of the number of votes they receive on the web for their playing.

Renault Frendzy concept【Video】

Renault has unveiled the Frendzy concept,which is meant to be a commercial business vehicle which can double as a comfortable passenger car. It brings the “Office on Wheels” by adding the BlackBerry PlayBook into the dash.

The Frendzy concept is a just under 14 feet in length and features a whole host of technology worthy of any concept car, including the ability to fully integrate with BlackBerry’s latest tablet, the PlayBook.

Power for the Frendzy concept is provided by an electric motor producing 40kW of power and 226Nm of torque. Top speed for the concept is listed at 130km/h.

Inside, the driver’s cockpit looks like a futuristic work bench made of molten metal and the same design is adopted for the rear right door panel.






Press Release

RENAULT unveils ‘FRENDZY' concept ahead of Frankfurt motor show 2011 WORLD DEBUT

Ahead of the 64th Frankfurt Motor Show later this year, Renault has revealed details of its latest concept vehicle, FRENDZY.

• After the notion of ‘love at first sight' expressed by DeZir, discovering the world with Captur and starting a family with R-Space, FRENDZY presents the world of work. It is the fourth step in Renault's design strategy, based on the different stages of the human life cycle.
• The latest concept to be produced under the leadership of Laurens van den Acker is the perfect multi-talented vehicle. As a commercial business vehicle which can double up perfectly as a comfortable car, it meets the requirements of business users on the one hand and those of families on the other.
• Fully electric, asymmetrically body compact vehicle, with series of clever innovations: BlackBerry® PlayBookTM controls 37-inch digital screen on sliding rear door, unique ‘sound signatures' inside and out, fabric roof adapts to shape of bulky objects, magnetic fixings allow loads to be secured to floor, slate board in rear cabin for children to sketch on, touch-sensitive pad slides out from driver's seat for rear passenger movie watching or gaming, two colour ambient lighting settings to differentiate family and work time

Laurens van den Acker, Senior Vice President, Design Renault: "FRENDZY is the fourth vehicle to illustrate Renault's new design strategy, a series which started with DeZir. It takes an original and innovative stance on the world of light commercial vehicles - a key part of Renault's activities".

FRENDZY, a multi-faceted friend
Renault's latest concept car has a dual personality. These days, professional and personal lives are so interwoven that drivers constantly find themselves swapping from one world to the other. The role of FRENDZY is to be a partner that takes the strain out of this busy lifestyle.

Axel Breun, Design Director, Concept and Show Cars: "FRENDZY is the must-have vehicle for flexibility and versatility. It is efficient and modern as a work tool, yet sporting and warmly welcoming for the family".

On the outside...

On the passenger's side, there's no glazing or centre pillar, just one conventional door and one sliding side door which incorporates a 37-inch widescreen display. This is the world of work. The driver's side, complete with side windows, still no centre pillar, but with centre opening doors, represents the world of the family. Ease of loading and ease of entry go without saying in both worlds.

Exterior designer, Deyan Denkov: "The concept of an asymmetric body design was the most logical way to express this vehicle's two roles. From the very start, I wanted to move away from the traditional format for commercial vehicles and, in doing so, show that this type of vehicle could also be more emotional, more dynamic and more attractive. I took inspiration from a wide variety of sources, including unconventionally shaped aircraft such as the Airbus Beluga and the Antonov 224."

On weekdays, FRENDZY is a vehicle that adapts to the requirements of the business user, with a large external screen that can display useful messages or information (such as "making deliveries" or "back in five minutes", the battery-charging method or the remaining charge) or advertising messages, either whilst parked or on the move. Come the weekend, the vehicle transforms itself into a family vehicle, with a comfortable passenger seat and, in the rear, a big bench seat. Depending on their mood of the moment, children can watch a film or play games on the touch-sensitive pad which slides out from the back of the driver's seat. They can even draw on a special blackboard-style slate integrated into the sliding door.

The driver, likewise, can adapt the vehicle to his or her needs. In ‘work' mode, the rear-view mirrors sit upright and the interior lighting is green; in ‘family' mode, the mirrors swivel round to the horizontal position and the interior is bathed in a radiant orange ambience. Coloured repeater lights in the headlights and tail lights provide an external indication of the mode in which FRENDZY is operating.

With FRENDZY, Renault, Europe's light commercial vehicles market leader for the past 13 years, is once again able to showcase the practicality, modularity and versatility already proven by the Kangoo, Trafic and Master on our roads today.

On the inside...

The driver's side cockpit is designed around the theme of a futuristic ‘work bench' featuring a structure which appears to be made from molten metal. Green light emanating from the dashboard brings this smooth and organic architecture to life. These lights signify the ‘work' mode and tie in with the colour displayed on the exterior of the vehicle. In the ‘family' mode, the atmosphere becomes warmer as the green lights turn orange - a subtle reference to the colour of the previous concept car, the family-oriented R-Space.

Dominant throughout is the sense that the interior forms a cosy cabin which echoes the simple, yet practical, world of camping, and this is further reflected by extensive use of wood. Indeed, as much a symbol of warmth as it is of strength and timelessness, wood forms a link between the two modes. The leather latticework seats and removable accessories also refer to the camping metaphor.

Antoine Génin, Design Director, Interior and Colour/Materials: "Our research into materials centred on the area where the technology of industry meets the cosy softness of the family nest. This modern combination of wood and metal picks up on Renault's strategic design values of simplicity, sensuousness and warmth."

On a practical level, the fabric roof adapts itself to the shape of bulky objects, magnetic fixings allow the load to be secured to the floor, and modular stowage systems are a practical bonus for business users. The single-piece rear seat is integrated into the floor, while the front seat folds forward in order to free up space. Thanks to its practical, modular interior, FRENDZY lends itself perfectly to the requirements of business users and tradespeople.

Interior designer Ana Zadnik explains: "The interior of the vehicle reflects its double identity: on the one hand, it provides a roomy, uncluttered cargo carrying space and, on the other hand, a space that's fun and interactive and which seats up to four people. The organic volumes of the dashboard and rear door panels are extruded by strikingly shaped "nozzles", which become "receptors" for accessories, which can be plugged directly into the dashboard and door panels."

An innovative office on wheels
The user-friendly layout of the driver's environment and tablet turn FRENDZY into a truly interactive and communicative tool. The BlackBerry® PlayBookTM tablet recently launched by Research In Motion (RIM), plugged into the dashboard, has enabled the concept of an office on wheels to become reality. BlackBerry PlayBook is ultra-portable (seven-inch touchscreen, 425g in weight, measuring 130mm x 194mm x 10mm), yet it delivers advanced performance, uncompromised web browsing with support for Adobe® Flash®, HD multimedia, advanced security features and out-of-the-box enterprise support.

BlackBerry PlayBook can allow users to benefit from an effective workplace and unrestricted mobility while on the go. This makes it particularly well suited to neighbourhood deliveries and local craftsmen, for whom it is a genuine work tool, both inside and outside of the vehicle.

The tablet connects directly into the centre console, ensuring perfect convenience of operation once on the move. As soon as it is plugged in, it becomes an integral element of the vehicle and configures itself into the Renault environment. Continuity of work is assured once the device is removed, and it can of course be used for all of the renowned BlackBerry PlayBook tablet features.

The device has an important role to play, too, in the customisation of the vehicle as it controls the exterior screen while the vehicle is in motion and when parked, for business as well as for personal uses - pictograms illustrating life with electric vehicles, or the viewing of a film, for example.

Sensors located on each door sill log the loading or unloading of packages equipped with RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) chips containing key information such as destination address, weight and dimensions. This gives users a real-time inventory of the goods being carried in their vehicle. In addition, tradesmen can automatically calculate or re-calculate their itineraries on the basis of this information.

FRENDZY - a commercial vehicle that's also electric
Like DeZir, which was unveiled at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, FRENDZY is an electric vehicle. Its powertrain is the same as that of Kangoo Van Z.E., although the charging point - located under the Renault logo at the front of the vehicle - is identical to that shown on ZOE Preview.

The chief new feature of FRENDZY as an electric vehicle is the extensive work that has gone into the sounds it produces. This work was carried out in conjunction with IRCAM (Institut de Recherche et Coordination Acoustique / Musique). Electric vehicles are silent, so one of the big challenges facing Renault is customising the sound they produce for safety reasons, notably at slow speeds.

The collaboration between Renault and IRCAM began with the creation of a sporty sound for DeZir which conveys the driving enjoyment associated with the car. In the case of FRENDZY, the aim was to produce a custom sound which corresponds with the new concept car's calling as an "office on wheels".

FRENDZY's dual personality prompted Renault and IRCAM to develop a broad range of sounds. The programme has led to a variety of sounds that are emitted both inside and outside of the vehicle to ensure that everyone can tell whether it is in business or passenger car mode, thanks simply to its sound signature.

More impressive still, it is possible to distinguish the passenger side (the world of work) from the driver's side (the world of the family) merely by the sound produced by FRENDZY.

The life of the vehicle and its functions as a mobile office are highlighted by a diversity of sounds composed by Andrea Cera using IRCAM's Modalys software. As he says himself: "Exploring the most informative sounds possible led me to work on variations in speed in order to express them in a clear manner. When accelerating hard, the sound becomes sharper, with a little wind noise. For deceleration phases, I added a more prominent notion of wind which provides greater scope for adapting the sound as a function of how the vehicle is being employed."

Renault Megane RS250 black edition

RENM Renault Megane RS 250 Black Edition is based on the old RS 250 model and gets a new stainless steel performance exhaust system, turbo intercooler, sports air filter, brake callipers and brake pads, to cope with the extra power.

The RENM RS 250 Black Edition dials power up on the hot hatch to 310 PS (228 kW / 306 bhp) and 430 Nm of torque by means of an ECU remap.

Visually, what struck us the first time we lay our eyes on the RENM Megane RS250 are the 19-inch titanium grey racelight wheels and lower ride height, which the tuners say it’s 35mm lower than the OEM version. Individually adjustable height and dampening coilover suspension are also added to the mix.





Press Release

Press release, June 2011
RENM Renault Megane RS250 black edition

RENM performance has released a ‘black' edition of the Renault Megane RS 250. The RENM Megane RS250 black edition is a more potent version of the highly regarded and accomplished performance hatchback, and the RENM black edition is no exception. With its highly developed engine and chassis, the black edition features striking new styling and race car-like dynamics.

The black edition receives a new stainless steel performance exhaust system, turbo intercooler, sports air filter, brake callipers and brake pads. RENM has increased engine output to 310PS/430NM by recalibrating the ECU and redesigning the exhaust system with sports catalytic convertor. The new intercooler, approximately four times the size of the OEM version, lowers intake temperatures for improved and sustained performance.

The black edition is characterised by 19" titanium grey racelight wheels and lower ride height (35mm lower than the OEM version). Handling dynamics are improved with individually adjustable height and dampening coilover suspension. The package can be further enhanced to accommodate circuit use with a choice of race seats, seat belt harnesses and steering wheels.

For more details on the RENM Renault Megane RS250 black edition, visit www.renm-performance.com for more information.

Renault Megane RS Trophy

Renault has unveiled the Megane Renaultsport (RS) 265 Trophy - the company’s fastest ever road going model. Set to debut at the World Series by Renault race at the Nurburgring on 18-19 June 2011, the Megane 265 Trophy has been developed to take on hot-hatch rivals including VW Group's Scirocco R and Golf R.

The car is basically a tweaked version of the RS 250 Megane. It comes with the Cup chassis version and stiffer springs, dampers and anti-roll bar, mechanical limited slip differential, Brembo brakes and grooved brake discs, but unlike other fast Renault hatches like the R26, it’s not a stripped-out track car and comes with plenty of equipments like a proper hot hatch should.

Inside the Trophy are Recaro seats with yellow seatbelts, and at each corner you'll find 19in alloys in gloss black with a red stripe around the rim. But the best bit is a ‘Renaultsport Monitor' that shows live engine performance, acceleration, lap time and g-force stats.

Prices in France will start from €35500. With maximum power of 265hp (up 15hp), peak torque of 360Nm (+20Nm) available across a particularly broad rev-band (3000 to 5000rpm), a power-to-weight ratio of 5.09kg/hp and specific power of 132.5hp/litre, the car boasts an exceptional performance package.





Press Release

Mégane R.S. Trophy: benchmark performance and versatility

June 10, 2011

Renault unveils an even hotter version of Mégane R.S..

With a power output of 265hp and peak torque of 360Nm, Mégane R.S. Trophy delivers unrivalled efficiency for its class. A new tyre fitment and an increase in power make the very most of the Cup chassis' potential, without detracting from the car's acclaimed versatility and ride comfort.

A production run of 500 cars is planned, and Mégane R.S. Trophy's specific styling features put it at the very top of the Mégane R.S. range.

Order books open on June 20, 2011, and the newcomer will be marketed in France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. Prices in France will start from €35,500.

Technical evolutions for the existing, exceptional performance package

With maximum power of 265hp (up 15hp), peak torque of 360Nm (+20Nm) available across a particularly broad rev-band (3,000 to 5,000rpm), a power-to-weight ratio of 5.09kg/hp and specific power of 132.5hp/litre, the car boasts an exceptional performance package. Even so, Renault Sport's engineers have worked hard on the specification of the Mégane R.S.'s 2.0-litre turbocharged engine to take driving enjoyment and response to even higher levels. Maximum turbo pressure has been uprated to 2.5 bar (up 0.2 bar), while the air intake design has been revised to take the higher pressure and higher running temperatures into account.

Performance has been enhanced in the process, and the result is a 0-to-100kph time of just 6.0s (down 0.1s), a top speed of 254kph (up 4kph) and the 1,000km standing start in 25.4s (down 0.3s). Beyond these statistics, however, the experience of driving Mégane R.S. Trophy is a constant source of enjoyment and satisfying sensations. In addition to the finely-tuned set-up of the Cup chassis and the standard limited slip differential, a new tyre fitment contributes to the car's exceptional road-holding on dry roads, especially through tighter turns, as well as in the wet. The design of the Formula 1-inspired Bridgestone Potenza RE050A's asymmetric, directional tread pattern and the form of its tread blocks provide outstanding grip, stability and acoustic comfort, whatever the conditions. Last but not least, Mégane R.S. Trophy's fuel-efficiency has been carefully optimised to return combined-cycle fuel consumption of just 8.2 litres/100km, equivalent to 190g of CO2/km, which represents a saving of 0.2 litres/100km and 5g/km over Mégane R.S. at the time of the latter's launch.


Assertive yet seductive R.S. styling cues

Mégane R.S. Trophy is recognisable at a glance thanks to its black roof, specific decals, new rear lip spoiler, 19-inch Gloss Black STEEV wheels with red piping and R.S. valve caps (optional or standard, depending on market) and numbered plaque. The LED daytime running lights also play a part in its striking looks. Mégane R.S. Trophy marks the introduction of a new Sirius Yellow finish, an emblematic metallic paint that will be particularly appreciated by Renault Sport fans. This specific body colour is available as an alternative to Glacier White, Etoilé Black and Cassiopée Grey.

Inside, the Recaro bucket seats (fabric or leather, depending on market) add to the cabin's unmistakably sporty feel, as does the central display which shows the data provided by the R.S. Monitor. This innovative onboard data-logging system records performance and displays a range of mechanical parameters in real-time, a feature which owners will especially appreciate during track days, an exercise to which the Mégane R.S. Trophy lends itself particularly well. Indeed, the car will be on show at the Renault Sport Day which forms part of the Renault Sport Enthusiasts Day programme at the Nürburgring, Germany, on June 17, 2011.