1994 Renault Argos

Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 1994, the Argos was a small roadster geaturing a simple design and refined layout.

It foreshadowed the design of the second generation Clio. Lightweight at just 750kg with a clean symmetrical shape, the Argos had a perfect balance – reflected in the equilibrium between its exterior lines and interior curves.

The Argos had no superstructure, no roof and no windscreen. Its subtle wind deflector folded down and its retractable mirrors tucked into the front wings. The doors slid back to nestle into the satin-finished rear wings as the opened.

Inside, the Argos had an unusual three seater layout. The traditional gear level disappeared, instead a mini-lever mounted next to the steering wheel sent gear change commands via an electronic control unit to two electric actuators.

Argos boasts light weight - just 750kg - and a clean, symmetrical shape defined by strong, bold lines. A study in pared-down elegance, flowing yet resolutely solid, Argos exudes the post-industrial purpose of a fighter aircraft. Its unashamedly minimalist shape borders on the brutal, yet it has perfect balance, reflected in the equilibrium between its exterior lines and interior curves, and underlined by the almost perfect symmetry of its bonnet and boot lines.

Features

• No superstructure, roof or even windscreen to interrupt the lines

• Wing mirrors retract into front wings, and only deploy when engine is started

• Doors open by sliding aft to nestle in satin-finish rear wings

• Refined and warm interior: soft tones and brushed satin surfaces

• 1239cc in-line 4-cylinder engine derived directly from Twingo

• Electronically-controlled gearbox with mini-lever mounted next to steering wheel

Concept Car Design Awards 94/95 - Car Styling magazine Golden Marker Trophy

Renault Argos (Аргос) – концептуальный автомобиль, представленный компанией Renault на Парижском автосалоне в 1994 году. Отличительной особенностью модели был чрезвычайно малый вес (735 кг), что не типично для обычного легкового автомобиля. Argos приводил в действие 4-хцилиндровый двигатель объемом 1,2 л. Никаких других технических данных компания не предоставила, что наводит на мысль о том, что Argos всего лишь шоу кар, демонстрирующий тенденции в дизайне. Известно, что модель оснащалась электронной АКПП, а в дизайне, напоминающем боевой истребитель, можно отметить сдвижные двери.