A month before the Paris Motor Show, Dacia held its own event, during which the manufacturer presented an explosive concept car.
Dacia intends to change our perception of it. The entry-level brand from the Renault Group has unveiled the Manifesto, a stunning concept car that also embodies a certain emancipation. Indeed, the Romanian brand, which is considered a low-cost manufacturer, has made real efforts in recent years to move upmarket and change its brand image. The latest Sandero or Dacia Spring, one of the cheapest electric cars on the market, are the rolling embodiment of this change. Still, it seems that customers are having a hard time passing through. That’s why the producers decided to make a change. This translates into a redesigned logo and a new visual identity. And to incorporate these two changes, nothing better than a concept car.
Good Ideas for the Next Dacia
Manifesto is an electric buggy intended for large spaces and outdoor activities. Although it will not have a production version, this small vehicle for adventurers provides an overview of the brand’s work in terms of design, but also the technologies it wants to develop on its commercial vehicles. Thus, the manifesto includes the brand new logo as well as a lighter signature which will undoubtedly be carried on future models. But it also innovates with a minimalist and eclectic approach that even kids can make. Indeed, in the cockpit, the Buggy doesn’t really pay off in the abundance of screens like some current models. Only a small device screen indicates speed and range. For the rest, the driver is invited to go through his smartphone which will be placed in the center of the dashboard. It, like most cabins, is made of cork and other recycled materials. As for the body, it is made of Starkle, a material made from recycled polypropene.
Another distinctive aesthetic element that can be used on mainstream vehicles is the YouClip system. Indeed, it is a device that allows you to attach “useful and modular” accessories to various places in the vehicle. This feature will be available in the next Dacia Duster. Other fairly original ideas may not be as successful. For our part, we fully validate the concept of convertible removable seats in sleeping bags, but aren’t sure if they’ll find their place in any other vehicle from the brand.
Dacia’s new economy? device!
Under the hood, the Manifesto is equipped with a small removable 2.25 kWh battery. It can be used to power various appliances, or to barbecue on the side of the road. But the main surprise of this futuristic buggy lies elsewhere. It is related to its engine. Dacia remains very thoughtful at this point. Only its design director, David Durand, spoke to Automobile Magazine to confirm that the Manifesto would be equipped with a “green” engine. 
But during the official presentation of the concept car, some rumors went even further, to claim that the manifesto lacked only one engine. An electric buggy without a motor? After all, why not, the essence of the concepts is to give full rein to the imagination of the designers.
