While Renault has just introduced its new Rafale, expand on the three technologies introduced by this model. Enough to provide style, comfort and dynamism to this SUV coupé that will embody the flagship of the SUV range of the diamond brand.
A “diamond nest” grill
The grill of this Renault Rafale contrasts strongly with what we could see in the latest creations of the diamond brand. Right, because it is positioned between the two state-of-the-art position lights, inspired by the Scénic Vision concept and introduced as standard by the new Clio. Something to get closer to the “dandelions” signature of the latest Peugeots and chief designer Gilles Vidal… for 3 years at Renault. In a way, we went from the sharp canines of the feline to the two halves of the diamond.
A geometric shape found in abundance on this grille, as it is made up of a multitude of small diamond shapes around the centrally placed emblem, whereas it spills over slightly onto the bonnet on the Austral and Espace.
Behind this cloud of diamonds, a luminous blue or slate gray background, depending on the version, appears or disappears in the background, depending on the viewing angle.
In this way, Renault pays tribute to the works of optical art of the 1970s and to the pope of this movement, Victor Vasarely. While it was his son, Yvaral, who designed the logo in 1972, recently absorbed by Renault.
A look into the past through very modern technologies:
“Very complex in its structure, the design of the grid benefited from the contribution of artificial intelligence through parametric 3D modeling software for its creation. This allows you to experiment with a large number of patterns and interactions in space by modifying parameters such as dimensions, angles, situations, etc…”, underlines the Renault press release.
A software particularly used in architecture, used in particular to design the famous Olympic stadium in Beijing: the “bird’s nest”.
A glazed roof with a virtual awning
Inside, the equipment literally amazed us: the panoramic glass roof dispenses with the traditional awning to become opaque with a simple click. An “AmpliSky” technology developed with Saint-Gobain, which allows glass to become opaque in segments on demand, thanks to the movement of molecules caused by an electric field.
Guaranteed “wahoo” effect and, beyond the gadget, an advantage over the awning: obscuring only part of the panoramic roof, leaving the possibility of letting light in only at the front, but also only at the rear.
“The driver and his passengers can choose between four positions: fully transparent roof, fully opaque roof, transparent roof at the front and opaque at the rear, and vice versa,” the press release details.
As a bonus, this virtual shade can be controlled by voice via the Google Assistant or, more conventionally, via a button on the ceiling. And to avoid running into a Furnace Rafale, this roof automatically switches to blackout mode when you get out of the car.
A first use of the full and partial blackout features by a general car manufacturer that we can salute. Although we still do not know the price of the Rafale and if this roof will be offered as standard or as an option.
New 300 horsepower E-Tech engine coming soon
If at launch the Rafale will be offered only with the 200-horsepower non-rechargeable hybrid motor found in the Austral and Space, this model should feature a new powertrain that fits well with its high-end positioning.
In fact, Renault is preparing a plug-in hybrid version, with a powertrain that develops 300 horsepower. The recipe? An electric motor placed on the rear axle, which will complete the device present in the “full hybrid” version of the launch. All connected to a higher capacity battery, to be able to make 100% electric trips.
Enough to also manufacture the Rafale, an SUV coupé with four-wheel drive and therefore gain in versatility, from zero emissions in the city to off-road driving in the countryside.
On this version scheduled for the second half of 2024, Renault also promises “specific chassis settings with new generation intelligent grounding”. Enough to improve the driving experience in a fairly large vehicle.
Source: BFM TV
