Undulating with the Renault Ondelios

Updated



Over the last few years, Renault have been doing the rounds of the motor shows with various prototypes, training the public to recognise the new grille-free bonnet as the future face of the marque. And now that this much-trailed design feature has entered series production with the Twingo, Laguna and brand new Megane, the Renault designers have impudently chosen the Paris Mondial de l'Automobile to unveil the Ondelios. A concept car that has absolutely nothing to do with the design that Renault trumpeted as the future of the company in Geneva this spring.

The main idea behind the prototype is expressed by the name itself, with 'onde' being the French word meaning 'wave'. It makes you wonder if they've taken a leaf out of Mazda's book here? The sleek, fluid lines are supposed to relax and invigorate the drivers and his passengers. Undulating elements are to be found everywhere in and on the vehicle.

According to Renault, the design has taken its inspiration from aeronautics, and there are indeed signs of this in the interior. The propeller-like wheel trims also hint at an aviation theme. And with the endless debate about climate change, a hybrid power plant qualifies for brownie points in any prototype for the 21st century. So keep your feet (or wheels) firmly on the ground and stay calm!

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