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RENAULT VEL SATIS - THE EXECUTIVE SALOON
REINVENTED
Here is the original press release detailing the
rationale and specification behind the Vel Satis Luxury Car Concept. The
flagship Initiale model incorporating much of the original definitive
concept was originally sold for in excess of £30750. Available as a
fully prepared pre-owned luxury car through allvehicles.co.uk from just
£13995. Please click here for details of current
stock.
Renault is set to offer a daring alternative to the Executive class
saloon car with the launch of Vel Satis. A real alternative to the
current crop of conventional four-door saloons, mostly offered by
premium German manufacturers, Vel Satis is a tall, roomy and refined
vehicle that offers luxury class features in an elegant, daring and
distinctive executive class car.
Renault’s approach draws on its own innovative values - the ultimate
luxury being space, accessible technology, class-leading safety - and is
inspired by the expertise of French designers in the area of luxury
goods - Philippe Starck, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Moet & Chandon and
Cartier to name but a few. In short, Vel Satis embodies a certain way of
life, one which will set Renault apart in the top-of-the-range arena,
where although its image is not one of a premium manufacturer, it is one
of an innovative and daring company which appeals to a certain group of
customers.
Vel Satis - Renault's contender at the top of the range
The E1 (Executive) segment is marked by a conservatism of design summed
up by its leading marques and models. Cars as diverse as the Mercedes
E-Class, BMW 5-series, Audi A6, and Peugeot 607 all conform to the
standard blueprint of offering a conventionally designed low-slung,
four-door saloon car.
However this lack of individuality means that the three German
manufacturers do not take the majority of sales as might be expected. In
the UK in 2000 the E-Class, 5-series and A6 accounted for 42% (34,486)
of sales in the E sector meaning 58% (48,095) of customers chose not to
buy from one of these three premium marques.
The market for executive models is changing with the emergence of less
conformist customers who are choosing other types of cars, such as
coupés, estates, cabriolets or MPVs, over the traditional saloon. For
the first time in 2000, saloon cars took less than 50% of the E segment
in Europe notably to the benefit of MPVs and Estate cars as buyers look
for more versatility to fit their lifestyle.
By forging its own idea of a top-of-the-range executive car expressing
its own culture of conceptual innovation, Renault intends to give
customers in this sector a new choice and understanding of what that car
can be.
That car is Vel Satis, a car instantly recognisable by its distinctive
appearance. Like any top-of-the-range car it has distinguishing features
- generous dimensions, a long bonnet, and a memorable ‘face’. Vel Satis
adds a layout designed for optimum travelling comfort. By reinventing
the tall saloon – Vel Satis is 13cm taller than conventional saloons
such as those mentioned above – Renault yet again focuses on
functionality, making the intelligence of the concept work for the
design.
The doors of Vel Satis are designed so the car can be entered in a
‘dignified’ manner. The cabin interior is both roomy and bright,
creating an impression of luxury, calm and tranquillity. All seats
resemble ‘first-class armchairs’ with their curved shape and are
reminiscent of the most luxurious furniture.
The top of the range vehicle is also marked by close attention to the
smallest detail. Vel Satis brings its own touch of Frenchness, a subtle
alliance of tradition and modernity. Its elegance lies in its geometry.
Objects are thought of as part of a living space. Wooden inlay where
fitted and drawers whose inspiration come from furniture design. Details
emerge little by little. The seats mould around the passenger. The
lighting is intimate. Vel Satis exudes sophistication and refinement.
Where comfort is concerned, Vel Satis exploits useful innovation rather
than resorting to gadgetry. The hand brake lever disappears and its
operation becomes automatic. For the enjoyment of long-distance
journeys, the front seats feature dual hinged backrests, splitting
across the middle allowing the occupants to achieve a perfect position,
while all seats offer the maximum comfort. For greater comfort and
safety, the belts are built into the seats, offering an ideal fit
between the occupant and seat, no matter how far the backrest is
reclined by the passenger.
Top-of-the-range driver assistance systems are also available - adaptive
cruise control with distance limiter, Carminat GPS navigation system and
automatic headlights and windscreen wipers.
Furthermore, the occupants can control their own climate thanks to
controls both in the front and the rear. And with the availability of a
DVD player, wide LCD screen for rear passengers and Alpine radio with
six-CD multichanger and 160W Cabasse speakers the Vel Satis cabin can
also become a ‘home cinema’ for all back seat passengers.
Top-range features for travelling comfort and complete peace of mind
Renault accepts that whilst it is advantageous to offer some unique
elements there are certain fundamentals that customers take for granted
and at which Vel Satis must excel. Powerful engines, a smooth ride, high
levels of safety and excellent build quality are just some of these
fundamentals.
Top-of-the-range cars are expected to be powerful and very well
equipped. With its engine range, Vel Satis gives priority to flexibility
and ease of use. The upper models are equipped with a 3.5 V6 petrol
engine developing 245bhp, and torque of 330Nm at 3,600rpm, or a 3.0 V6
dCi common-rail diesel engine with a power output of 180bhp at 4,400rpm,
and torque of 350Nm from 1,800rpm. Two four-cylinder engines complete
the picture - a 2.0 turbo petrol engine (165bhp at 5,000rpm, constant
torque output of 250Nm between 2,000 and 4,250rpm) and a 2.2 dCi diesel
engine (150bhp at 4,000rpm, 320Nm of torque at 1,750rpm). Two types of
transmission are also available - a six-speed manual gearbox and
five-speed Proactive automatic transmission, standard with the V6
engines.
Vel Satis offers real driving pleasure combined with secure stability
and handling, and optimum soundproofing. Developed and patented by
Renault, a new ‘trigonal’ rear suspension debuts on Vel Satis, combining
compactness with comfort and stability. The driver assistance systems
mentioned above naturally form part of the package, while passive safety
is uncompromising and achieves unequalled standards in its class, as
would be expected from the company which has set the standard for all
others in the EuroNCAP crash tests.
Renault has also made great efforts to make owning Vel Satis a
worry-free experience. Production processes and quality control methods
have been made more demanding to guarantee a high level of operating
reliability. The service life of some parts subject to wear has been
doubled, thereby extending service intervals. Vehicle security has been
improved, notably thanks to the use of multiplexing and operation of the
locking system by means of the Renault Card.
The residual values and whole-life running costs are crucial in this
sector if any car is to appeal to the company car or private purchaser.
Whilst all Renault’s have above average residuals in their classes,
where Renault has shown daring and innovation in the past it has been
rewarded with strong demand, both new and used, for its vehicles. Scénic
and Espace are two examples which have led the market place for residual
values.
CAP Black Book shows average residual values of 41.9% of the new price
after three years/ 60,000 miles for the Espace range which compares to
41.5% for the Mercedes E-Class, 38.4% for the BMW 5-series and 31.8% for
the Audi A6. Glass’s Guide has similar figures of 44.3% for Espace,
36.5% for the E-Class, 44% for the 5-series and 34% for the A6. Being
new to the market and therefore without the high profile that Espace
enjoys, the target for Vel Satis is to match the Audi A6 and therefore
be in the top half of the sector. This will be assisted by a strict
control of supply whereby cars will only be supplied to individual
customer orders. Vel Satis will not be included in any dealers sales
targets removing any pressure to force sales.
Taking advantage of the investment made at the Technocentre and the
Sandouville factory for the D and E programme - new Laguna, Vel Satis,
and new Espace which will be launched later in 2002, investment in Vel
Satis has been limited to EUR548.7 million.
With Vel Satis, Renault is targeting almost three percent of the
European E segment in 2003. In the UK Renault will make available up to
3,500 units in its first full year of sales.
Summary
Vel Satis is a bold and daring move by Renault to extend the accepted
excellence of French luxury products into the automotive arena.
Supported by Avantime and new Espace, this three-pronged attack on the
Executive sector provides a new choice for non-conformist customers.
1 - Vel Satis - Renault’s contender at the top of the range
The conventional saloon in decline
The emergence of new non-conformist customers
A dual ambition
Optimised programme costs
2 - Original architecture inside and out to create the right ambience
Space unrivalled in its class
Interior design
Making the user’s life easier
The new, more practical seat design
Climate-controlled cabin
A home-cinema on wheels
3 - Driving Vel Satis
Engines and transmissions
The right transmissions to boost driving pleasure
Driving control
The parking brake reinvented
Care-free driving pleasure
Interactive driving
Noise reduction
4 - Doctrinal approach to safety
5 - Constant peace of mind
1. Vel Satis - Renault’s contender at the top of the range
The strategic nature of the upper market sector, particularly in terms
of profitability and image, has prompted Renault to take an interest in
the segment with a view to obtaining a lasting presence. To achieve this
goal, Renault has adopted its own specific approach, that of being
innovative and daring. The manufacturer is targeting a less conformist
kind of customer living a different lifestyle. The phenomenon is a
deeply rooted one which has resulted in a definite move away from
traditional saloons in the top-of-the-range segment. Vel Satis benefits
from optimised programme costs, profiting from economies of scale
achieved through the commonality of the D and E - new Laguna, Vel Satis
and new Espace - programmes.
The conventional saloon in decline
With 1,602,032 units sold in Western Europe in the first 10 months of
2001, the E segment for prestige cars is an extremely competitive market
which is served mainly by specialised manufacturers. It represents 12.5%
of the European car market and has enjoyed stability for several years.
While still in the majority, saloons have seen their share of the market
fall by 19.2% in six years to less than 50% of the sector, notably to
the benefit of MPVs (16%). Estate cars and cabriolets represent 16% and
6.2% of the segment, respectively. The top-of-the-range market is
concentrated in four countries - Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy and
France - which account for over 70% of sales. Germany alone accounts for
39% of sales in the segment, hence the preponderance of German
manufacturers. The leading companies are the German specialists, BMW,
Mercedes and Audi, followed by Volvo.
The emergence of new non-conformist customers
Despite the dominant position of traditional saloons in the
top-of-the-range segment, Renault believes there is room for a different
kind of product. Alongside those customers who prefer conventional
‘three-box’ saloons, there is a body of customers in the main European
markets whose approach to motoring needs is less conventional. These
customers are willing to depart from the norm to seek products which are
more in tune with their personality and lifestyle. Prepared to break
free from conventional codes they will not make any concessions in terms
of fundamentals.
A dual ambition
The task allotted to Vel Satis is to raise Renault's brand image in all
European countries, even those in which its anticipated sales are
relatively small. It is expected that in 2003, the first full year of
sales, the model will take close to a 3% share of the European E
segment. Reflecting the makeup of the segment, Germany, France and the
United Kingdom will represent around 70% of the total European volume
for the model. In the 2002-2008 period, Renault's objective is to sell
nearly 300,000 units. Sales in its first full year in the UK - 2003 -
are expected to reach 3,500 units, placing Vel Satis on a par with the
Volvo S80.
Optimised programme costs
Vel Satis, which was internally known as the X73 project, was developed
in 42 months, at Renault’s Technocentre outside Paris by the D and E
Programme Department. Benefiting from most of the engineering investment
devoted to the D and E programme at the Technocentre, and the EUR647.9
million invested thus far in the Sandouville factory, including a new
production line, the Vel Satis programme cost EUR548.7 million, of
which:
EUR266.7 million in model-related industrial investment (by suppliers
and at Sandouville).
EUR251.5 million in development costs (engineering and design).
EUR30.5 million in production start-up costs.
Renault is optimising the development time of its models, and
rationalising the manufacturing process and production tooling so as to
improve the profitability of each project through the shared use of
industrial processes and components.
2 - Original architecture inside and out to create the right ambience
Vel Satis represents a departure from conventional saloon cars in the
top-of-the-range market. An imposing but distinctive car, it expresses
Renault's culture of conceptual innovation. Vel Satis also plays on
emotion and refinement, by offering a unique feeling of well-being on
the move. The car makes life easier for its occupants by offering new
comfort features, high in technical content yet easy to use.
Exterior styling
The Executive segment is governed by some immutable rules such as
generous dimensions, a long bonnet, a striking and distinguished front
face, and quality of finish beyond reproach. These attributes are a
prerequisite for Vel Satis.
From its front grille with the strongly dimensioned Renault logo, to the
compact rear end with its huge panoramic wrap around rear window, the
layout of Vel Satis is highly structured. At rest, and even more when on
the move, Vel Satis displays a strongly propulsive profile, extending
the principle of the Initiale (1995) and Vel Satis (1998) concept cars.
Outside the car, the headlamp clusters and the front grille were also
the object of close attention early on in the design process. The
grille, for example, called for the development of a paint finish to
present a faultless appearance. The bumpers were given a matt coating,
which provides protection without resorting to less elegant black. This
attention to detail extends to careful design of the hinged Renault
badge on the luggage compartment lid which double as the boot release
lever.
Space unrivalled in its class
Conventional top-of-the-range saloons are often characterised by
relatively limited cabin space, and difficult accessibility. By adding
more height – at least an additional xxcm by comparison with xx, its
next closest competitor – and adopting a long wheelbase (284cm), Vel
Satis offers interior space unequalled in the E segment.
Getting in and out of Vel Satis is also easy thanks to a new
square-edged door design. Access is improved by the higher than normal
seats - the passenger sits onto the seats rather than having to drop
down into them. This of course also results in an easier exit from the
car, with the passenger stepping out without having to struggle. The
original layout of Vel Satis also creates better headroom, and allows
the use of generous glazed surfaces, providing more comfort thanks to a
brighter interior and better external visibility, particularly for rear
passengers who now have glazing to look out of instead of the metal ‘C’
pillar you find in a conventional car.
Interior design
Inside the car the choice of materials, the precision of their assembly,
the harmonies of the light colours and attention to detail received
special attention. The aim was to achieve the most pleasant visual and
tactile impression. In the same way, whether in wood or aluminium, the
trim components make use of authentic materials. The wood-finish
detailing of the Initiale version respects all aspects of the art of
marquetry. The Audi A6 was used as the benchmark for ‘perceived quality’
and without exception, Vel Satis is identical or a step above the A6 in
the quality of plastics used. No expense was spared to compete with the
sector benchmark.
Making the user’s life easier
This feeling of well-being induced by the treatment, the layout and the
atmosphere of the Vel Satis interior is enhanced by the many technical
innovations dedicated to comfort, peace of mind, and user-friendliness,
making driving a pleasure in every respect. First seen on the new
Laguna, Vel Satis uses the Renault Card, an electronic card used to
unlock the doors and luggage compartment and start the engine. Once
inside, you just need to slide the card into a reader in the centre
console and press the ‘start’ button.
Each of the cards delivered with the car can memorise each driver’s
settings for the electric seats, mirrors, climate control and
entertainment systems. The Renault Card also stores VIN and registration
number details as well as maintenance information such as fluid levels,
mileage and distance to the car’s next service.
The new, more practical seat design
The front seats of Vel Satis are one of the car’s major innovations.
Combining ‘first-class’ comfort with maximum passive safety, they bring
together two concepts - a seat-mounted safety belt and a double-hinged
backrest. With the backrest split into two parts across the middle the
front occupants can alter the angle of the backrest whilst still having
their shoulders supported. This particular feature improves both comfort
and safety thanks to better support of the upper part of the torso. The
driver's seat is also equipped with the ability to vary the height of
the front section of the cushion to provide optimum support for the
thighs.
The shape of the seat makes the cushion wider, akin to the comfort of an
armchair. Altogether, five adjustments – reach, parallel height, cushion
adjustment and inclination of lower and upper parts of the backrest –
allow the seat to adapt precisely to any body shape and size. In the
case of seats with electric adjustment, all these settings, except the
cushion adjustment, can be memorised by the Renault Card. The
three-point safety belts are integrated in the driver and passenger
seats for extra occupant comfort – the belt always remaining close to
the shoulder. In addition, thanks to electrically-controlled locking of
the belt, the pretensioning loads are reduced. The seat-mounted belt
together with electric control improves overall comfort by reducing the
pressure of the belt across the chest.
The structural contribution of the seat to restraint during an impact
increases from 10% normally to 40% in Vel Satis.
Climate-controlled cabin
The correct thermal balance also contributes significantly to comfort
and well-being on the move. Air conditioning, fitted as standard,
includes a large number of adjustments and automated functions, allowing
each occupant to set their own preferred heating or ventilation. In the
front, a left-right selector allows the driver and front passenger
independently to select temperature and amount of airflow. The control
of air distribution is automatic, as are all other functions. In
addition to upper/lower adjustment, an auxiliary system allows rear
passengers to select their own desired ventilation for speed and air
direction, independent of the front seat settings.
Although simple to use, this air conditioning system incorporates a high
technical content allowing the detailed analysis of thermal comfort. A
series of sensors anticipates the needs of each of the vehicle's
occupants. A solar input sensor adjusts the temperature according to the
solar radiation entering the cabin. A toxicity sensor automatically
switches to air recycling mode before external polluting elements can
penetrate the cabin. Finally, a humidity sensor anticipates the
formation of mist inside the windows, and according to the humidity of
the ambient air, deploys different ventilation strategies. Also, if
necessary, the system activates the electric heating of windscreen and
rear window.
At the same time, considerable work has gone into reducing ventilation
system noise. In addition, the adoption of an automatically controlled
variable-displacement compressor has the advantage of avoiding engine
jerkiness. That enables fuel consumption to be reduced when the air
conditioning is switched on, since it takes from the engine only as much
power as is strictly needed for the thermal needs of the cabin.
A home-cinema on wheels
Vel Satis will feature the option of a DVD player and a
6.5-inch-diameter foldaway LCD screen housed in the rear of the centre
console. The DVD player, specially developed for in-car use, is fitted
under the cushion of the rear middle seat. The system includes a DVD
drive with strengthened support and a 16MB memory card which allows the
player to return to the correct position without interrupting display,
in the event of a shock causing the laser beam to shift track. An
infra-red remote control is provided for all the DVD player functions,
while auxiliary Cinch and S-video connections enable games consoles, a
video camera or other image sources to be used.
Audio output can be directed either through the loudspeakers of the main
audio system, or through headsets which can be plugged into the on-board
unit.
A GPS Carminat navigation system will also be available, with its high
resolution wide colour screen built into the central section of the
dashboard. It is complemented by reception of traffic information
broadcast by the network of FM transmitters equipped with RDS-TMC (Radio
Data System – Traffic Message Channel) encoders where available. The
sound system includes a top-of-the-range Alpine HiFi system with six-CD
multichanger and 160W Cabasse speakers whose sound quality is still
further enhanced by the large cabin volume of Vel Satis and the high
quality of its noise insulation.
3 - Driving Vel Satis
Engines and transmissions
Vel Satis gives priority to flexibility and ease of driving in its
choice of powerplants. The top-range versions are equipped, according to
choice, with petrol or diesel V6 engines. Two four-cylinder engines,
with a choice of petrol and diesel, complete the range.
3.5 V6 engine
V4Y torque and power curve
The most powerful engine in the Vel Satis - and Renault - range, the
all-new 3.5-litre 24-valve V6 petrol engine (V4Y) combines power (245bhp
at 6,000rpm) for high speed with torque at low speed (330Nm at 3,600rpm,
with 85% of this figure available from 1,200rpm) for smooth operation.
This results in a top speed of 147mph and a 0-62mph time of 8.3 seconds,
while both fuel consumption and emission figures are kept low for the
engine size at 24.6mpg in the combined cycle and 275g/km of CO2.
The characteristics of this 60° V6 engine result from technology which
aims to improve efficiency in every respect. The casings, cylinder block
and heads are aluminium. Two continuously variable inlet camshaft
variators, hydraulically operated and controlled via two solenoid
valves, alter the inlet valve timing according to load and speed. The
variable-acoustic inlet manifold is notable for having a controlled
valve which allows the volume of the plenum chamber to be varied,
improving cylinder filling at all speeds.
These two systems have the effect of optimising the torque curve. The
use of platinum sparking plugs and chain-driven camshafts guarantees
durability. Two close-coupled precatalysts units and two main catalysts
units beneath the floor ensure optimum exhaust emission control from a
cold start. This engine installation also allows the achievement of
exhaust emission levels meeting the requirements of IF05 fiscal
incentives.
3.0 V6 dCi engine
P9X torque and power curve
The most powerful diesel engine in the Renault range, the all-new 3.0 V6
dCi (P9X) common-rail turbodiesel engine delivers a power output of
180bhp at 4,400rpm, and a torque output of 350Nm from 1,800rpm. Offering
first-class performance with reduced fuel consumption - 32.5mpg in the
combined cycle - and emissions - 232g/km of CO2 - this new diesel unit
propels its passengers to 62mph in 10.5 seconds and then on to a top
speed of 131mph.
The variable nozzle turbocharger, with its pneumatically controlled
multi-vane intake, is notable for providing feedback about its position
and of being water cooled, which ensures better bearing reliability. In
order to improve comfort in use, the system designers notably made use
of an inlet manifold resonator with the aim of reducing operating noise.
A shut-off valve in the inlet manifold prevents engine rocking at
shut-down. Despite the mounting of a twin-stage injection pump in the
centre of the V, this engine remains very compact thanks to its included
angle of just 66°. The use of aluminium for the cylinder block, the sump
casting and cylinder heads, plus the use of hollow camshafts, limits the
weight of this compact unit to 230kg. The 3.0 V6 dCi engine is also
characterised by reliability and durability of the highest level: the
ceramic glowplugs, for example, have a service life of 125,000 miles.
Equipped with this engine, Vel Satis meets the Euro 2000 (Euro 3)
exhaust emission requirements.
turbo engine
F4Rt torque and power curve
The two-litre, four-cylinder 16V turbo engine (F4Rt) is also new, and
will also feature in Renault’s other top-of-the-range models Avantime
and new Espace. It majors on delivering a constant torque output of
250Nm throughout a speed range from 2,000 to 4,250rpm, while also
delivering 165bhp at 5,000rpm, thanks to turbocharging. The two-litre
turbo engine hits 62mph in 9.6 seconds with an ultimate top speed of
131mph. The combined cycle fuel consumption figure is 30.1mpg while CO2
emissions register at 225g/km.
The turbocharger is of the double-intake ‘Twin Scroll’ variety. Its high
compression ratio by turbo engine standards (9.5:1) is a mark of its
better efficiency and lower exhaust emissions. The increased low-speed
torque thus achieved allows the gear ratios to be raised, resulting in
lower fuel consumption. More than 70 engine components have been
strengthened compared to the F4R 140bhp engine – through changes to
geometry or of material. Among the most significant items, the
connecting rods and pistons have been completely reworked, the valves
are made of Nimonic alloy and the turbine casing is made from austenitic
stainless steel. On the acoustic front, a twin-mass damper reduces noise
from the rotating assembly. The modified valve timing plus a special
tensioner for the camshaft drive toothed belt minimise noise. Equipped
with this engine, Vel Satis meets the Euro 2000 (Euro 3) exhaust
emission standards and also complies with the requirements of the IF 05
fiscal incentive standard.
2.2 dCi engine
G9T torque and power curve
The four-cylinder, 16-valve 2.2 dCi common-rail diesel engine is
developed from that used in Espace and is also fitted in the new Laguna.
It offers a high level of driving comfort with power of 150bhp at
4,000rpm and a torque of 320Nm at 1,750rpm. This smaller diesel unit
propels Vel Satis to 62mph in 10.9 seconds and on to a top speed of
125mph, while its fuel consumption of 39.8mpg in the combined cycle plus
low CO2 emissions of 188g/km make the Renault one of the leaders in its
class, qualifying it for a low 22% tax rate.
Its other advantages include quiet operation and low fuel consumption.
To feed its common rail, it uses the new Bosch CP3 variable-flow pump,
which is notable for delivering only the amount of fuel which is
actually needed. The aluminium cylinder head provides separate inlet
ports for each valve. Through the action of a control valve, it is
possible to vary the degree of swirl according to load and speed, by
directing the flow through one port rather than the other in the same
cylinder. This swirl effect improves mixing of air and fuel and ensures
better combustion at low engine speeds.
This common-rail injection system is complemented by a multi-vane
variable nozzle turbocharger, controlled pneumatically by a variable
cyclic-ratio valve. From the acoustic point of view, balancer shafts
installed in the cylinder block considerably reduce the phenomenon of
booming at high speeds, otherwise associated with the four-cylinder
in-line layout. The acoustic screen incorporates a layer of polyurethane
foam damping material, and the twin-mass flywheel reduces noise from the
rotating assembly. A shut-off valve in the inlet manifold prevents
engine rocking at shut-down. This engine meets the Euro 2000 (Euro 3)
exhaust emission requirements and notably embodies an electric EGR
system which, through the re-injection of burned exhaust gas, reduces
the formation of nitrogen oxide (NOx).
The right transmissions to boost driving pleasure
Vel Satis uses the six-speed manual gearbox (PK6) which is also fitted
to new Laguna and Avantime. Its smoothness (triple-cone synchronisers on
the first two gears, shorter throws), and its low friction (ball or
needle bearings, reduced internal friction) deliver greater driving
pleasure. The adoption of a sixth gear allows the lower gear ratios to
be closed up, allowing the potential of the engines to be better
exploited with better response in all the intermediate gears. By
allowing the engine to run more slowly, this sixth speed also means that
fuel consumption and CO2 emissions can be reduced by 5 to 6% according
to engine, without performance penalty, and with a reduction in noise
level of up to 3dB. The PK6 transmission will be available wit the
2.2dCi and 2.0t engines.
The five-speed Proactive automatic transmission (SU1) is one of the best
in its class. It can handle an input torque of up to 350Nm with a shaft
separation of only 197mm and an overall length of 369mm. This has
allowed Vel Satis to retain a transverse front-drive layout.
With multiplex connections to the Emergency Brake Assist system, the
ESP, the automatic parking brake and the adaptive cruise control, the
Proactive transmission communicates with other on-board computers.
Thanks notably to its ‘declutch at rest’ function, fuel consumption is
optimised.
This automatic transmission contributes directly to driving pleasure
with its ability to downshift during hard braking or to avoid
downshifting if the accelerator is suddenly released, unlike most other
automatic transmissions which would simply change up at the crucial
moment leaving the car to coast around a corner with no engine braking.
Its computer continuously analyses driving style, road profile and
engine operation so as to determine the ideal gear selection at any
moment. The pleasure of using it has been further increased by the
option of flick-shift sequential control, allowing the driver to select
whichever gear he or she chooses.
Driving control
The philosophy behind Vel Satis is to provide real driving pleasure
together with safe handling.
The brake system has been designed to satisfy a highly demanding
specification. Each element of the braking system – kinematics, pedal
effectiveness, backlash, pads, servo assistance – has been considered
with the objective of achieving consistent, efficient and quiet braking,
with reassuring ‘bite’, while retaining good pedal sensitivity. The use
of 17-inch and 18-inch wheels has allowed the installation of larger
brake discs (324 x 28mm ventilated discs at the front, 300 x 11mm plain
discs at the rear). Servo assistance has been increased, and apart from
ABS and Emergency Brake Assistance, Vel Satis is equipped with
Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) which allows the full potential of
the rear brakes to be exploited. The tyres are of generous size:
225/55-17 or 245/45-18 according to version.
The MacPherson-type front suspension of the top-range platform is
especially strong to withstand the additional constraints imposed by a
top-range saloon. Transversely very stiff, which contributes to
precision, this suspension provides the car with excellent stability.
Its highly developed mounting system allows flexible bushes and the
effective filtration of low frequencies to be combined with accurate
control of the vehicle.
The new ‘trigonal’ multi-link rear suspension, patented by Renault, also
contributes to shock-free, yet accurate control, together with acoustic
comfort of the highest level through the use of a filtered subframe. The
need to reduce unsprung mass led the designers to use aluminium for the
hub carrier and the upper arm of the linkage. Location of the body has
also been optimised: the track width, wheelbase and reduced overhangs
ensure accurate behaviour thanks to programmed movement in pitch as well
as roll.
The parking brake reinvented
Vel Satis will be one of the first production models to take advantage
of the automatic parking brake. In addition to all the conventional
functions of a manual parking brake, this feature allows automatic
locking when the engine is switched off. Controlled by a computer, the
degree of effort it is necessary to apply to hold the car on a given
slope is entirely automatic. When starting from rest, the parking brake
is automatically released as soon as the amount of torque needed for
forward movement is achieved by the driven wheels.
The automatic parking brake also has a fail-safe device: in the event of
a failure of the main braking circuit, it allows braking to take place
with the protection of a simplified ABS function which avoids any
locking of the rear wheels. Should the need arise, in particular when
stopping on a slope without switching off the engine, the handbrake can
be applied with a control on the dashboard.
The elimination of the handbrake lever in the cabin frees space between
the front seats for the installation of a large storage bin in the
centre console. In addition there is a deep glovebox, wide bins in all
four doors, and four drawers under the seats – sliding at the front,
pivoting at the rear – which provide Vel Satis with considerably more
stowage space than any of its competitors.
Care-free driving pleasure
For driving, the philosophy of Vel Satis is to make a virtue of
simplicity and to do away with many routine operations, such as
switching on the headlamps or windscreen wipers. All these operations,
often seen as constraints when driving, have been automated. A light
sensor ensures that dipped headlamps are switched on whenever the light
level is low, and also provides a ‘follow me home’ function which
switches the headlamps off two minutes after locking of the doors.
A rain sensor switches on the windscreen wipers and adjusts their speed
according to the amount of water on the screen. In addition, for a
clearer wipe, the blades operate in opposing directions, wiping from the
centre of the screen outwards. The wiped area is increased from 85% with
parallel operation, to 95% of the screen.
Furthermore, the blades on the flexible arms improve the effectiveness
of the wipe, especially at high speeds, thanks to lower air resistance.
Finally, an electronically-controlled, pendular-mounted motor controls
the acceleration and slowing down of the wipers at the beginning and end
of each stroke, as well as the change in direction to improve operating
comfort. This feature allows the wiper speed to be infinitely variable
and controlled according to the amount of water on the screen whenever
the rain sensor is activated.
Vel Satis is also equipped with a parking proximity sensor which allows
unseen obstacles behind the car to be detected. Whenever reverse gear is
engaged, four ultrasonic sensors built into the rear bumper measure the
available free space.
A series of increasingly rapid beeps warns the driver when approaching
an obstacle. When the available manoeuvring distance is less than 20cm,
the sound signal becomes continuous. Furthermore, variable-assistance
power steering comes as standard with the V6 and four-cylinder diesel
engines, facilitating driving and manoeuvrability and detecting vehicle
speed for optimum usage.
Electrochromatic outside and inside mirrors darken progressively at
night to prevent the driver from being dazzled by the headlamps of cars
behind. The door mirrors can be electrically folded simply by rotating
the adjustment button to avoid any damage when the car is parked.
An especially convenient touch for Vel Satis owners is the integral fuel
filler flap which does away with any risk of leakage or of smells
associated with handling the filler cap. Simplified as far as possible,
the only operation now necessary is to open the flap and insert the
filler nozzle into the orifice.
Interactive driving
For increased driving comfort on long journeys, Vel Satis will be
available with adaptive cruise control. This not only maintains the car
at a set speed predetermined by the driver, but also, when appropriate,
at a speed determined by the system according to traffic conditions. A
radar built into the front bumper detects the distance of moving
vehicles in the same lane. The cruise control is activated by the
driver, who selects a speed and a safe distance using controls housed in
the steering wheel. The system automatically makes any change necessary
to permanently maintain a safe distance behind the vehicle ahead. A
dashboard display shows information in real time on the level of
activation. It can be inhibited at any time simply by touching the brake
pedal.
Noise reduction
Apart from enhancing driving pleasure and safety, good acoustics is a
fundamental quality for any top-range car. In the search for
effectiveness, each frequency band inside the vehicle was the object of
meticulous research.
In order to reduce road noise, the ‘trigonal’ rear suspension linkage
includes filtering units built directly into the body structure, without
any intermediate parts which could be sources of noise and sound
transmission. The front suspension is double-isolated, where it attaches
to the subframe and where the subframe attaches to the body. A notional
ring is formed by inserts attached to the rear wheel arches, the floor
and the rear roof cross-member, and isolation of the entire floor
completes treatment against road noise. Special work was carried out to
reduce internal resonance from the tyres.
In terms of the treatment of engine noise, Vel Satis benefits from an
original technical innovation which is the subject of a Renault patent.
The ‘Multi Layer Energy Absorber’ is a multi-layered component attached
to the structure around the gearbox mounting, which acts as an
‘absorber’ of vibrations emanating from the engine and gearbox assembly
before they can be propagated within the rest of the vehicle structure.
An additional acoustic barrier is formed by suspending the engine and
transmission assembly at four points. The conventional limitation of
engine movement can be replaced by a single link rod mounted high up.
This allows more advantage to be taken of the isolating ability of the
engine suspension mounting by avoiding saturation under full load.
The exhaust system was designed from the outset according to an acoustic
behaviour specification. A 20-litre silencer minimises exhaust noise.
High filtration factor mountings are attached directly to the rear
suspension subframe, itself already isolated, to avoid the upward
transmission of vibration into the cabin. The joint between the rear
hatch and the body is stiffened by means of two indexers - additional
linkages which are the subject of a Renault patent application. By
allowing vibrations of the rear hatch to be shifted to a higher
frequency range, these make a significant contribution to the avoidance
of booming noises when the car is being started. The rear hatch has
electric assistance to pull it tightly shut. Finally, with the
four-cylinder engines, the balancer shafts guarantee an absence of
booming above 1,500rpm.
The treatment of wind noise was also given great attention, which
included the sealing of the whole of the box section structure, which
represents a potential source of noise. The apertures have double seals
plus a 10mm-thick thermo-compressed felt installed within the door
frames. But the major innovation resides in the adoption of a new type
of laminated windscreen which includes a layer of resin between two
layers of polyvinyl butyral. This central layer of resin increased the
damping effect of the windscreen by 20% at normal temperatures by
comparison with a conventional screen.
This innovation is also compatible with the athermal treatment of the
heat-reflective windscreen. Finally, the wiper blades with flexible arms
replace the conventional pantographs, offering minimum air resistance.
In the parked position they are completely protected from the airflow by
a deflector at the rear of the bonnet, whose profile was specially
studied in the wind tunnel.
External noise levels recorded by the vehicle are at a remarkably low
level. Following new Laguna, Vel Satis will be the second European
vehicle whose entire range – with whichever engine – achieves a
homologated level of 71dBA, or 3dBA lower than the 74dBA standard now in
force. This represents a 50% reduction in sound impact on the
environment. Thanks to these reductions Vel Satis won the 2001 ‘Golden
Decibel’ award presented in Paris last month.
4 - Doctrinal approach to safety
As would be expected of the company that has produced the only car to
have scored five stars in the EuroNCAP independent crash test programme
- the new Laguna - and the rest of whose range scores no less than four
stars, Renault has ensured every driver aid system expected of an
Executive model is available on Vel Satis.
ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) and traction control has been
fitted to all versions as standard. It includes an ASR traction control
system for starting from rest and accelerating in low-grip conditions.
With the introduction of the Emergency Brake Assist system across many
models of the Renault range, the stopping distances of most drivers can
be reduced. Emergency Brake Assistance allows maximum braking effort to
be applied much more quickly, taking effect in a shorter time than ABS
regulation.
The tyre pressure monitoring system is an essential aspect of safety. It
detects both punctures and slow pressure loss, which accounts for 90% of
incidents. The system provides the driver with information on the
pressures, and the location of any problem, by means of a display
situated on the instrument panel.
Where passive safety is concerned, Vel Satis uses ultra-high
elastic-limit steels in its structural areas. These steels are able to
absorb more energy during deformation, because their elastic-limit can
be up to two and a half times higher than those of conventional steels.
Vel Satis benefits from front and rear cross-members made from 1000mPa
elastic-limit steel, which results in reduced repair costs following
impacts at less than 10mph. These cross-members actively contribute to
occupant protection by absorbing kinetic energy. The units housed in the
engine compartment (the engine itself, gearbox, battery, brake servo,
air filter box and other accessories) have been designed to collapse
together and to play an active role in the programmed deformation of the
structure.
In the event of a side impact, the aluminium doors incorporate profiled
beams, also of aluminium, which allow energy to be absorbed and
distributed between the front, centre and rear pillars. The pillars have
been strengthened by steel inner panels with thicknesses up to 4.3 mm
(centre pillar). Associated with the work on the structure, the occupant
restraint systems have been designed in such a way as to provide optimum
protection whatever the severity of the impact. The anti-submarining
arrangement has been strengthened in all seats and a system which pulls
the brake pedal to the floor (the brake pedal shaft shears in the event
of a violent impact) reduces the risk of injury to the driver's lower
limbs.
The restraint systems have been developed to provide the highest level
of protection ever achieved. Vel Satis is equipped with Renault's
new-generation System for Restraint and Protection (SRP).
It comprises two front adaptive airbags (the passenger airbag can be
deactivated) with an internal unit which cools the gas before venting, a
double pretensioner for the driver (a single pretensioner for the
passenger) and load limiters in the form of 400kg calibrated torsion
bars in the belt reels. In Vel Satis, the front safety belt reels are
also fitted with an electrical control which operates even if the
battery has become disconnected during impact – locking occurs whenever
the current is cut off – and the system is completed by close-contact
head restraints. Those at each side are provided with a torsion bar type
load limiter and a pyrotechnic pretensioner. The three rear headrests
may be slid down when not in use, for improving visibility.
For side impacts, Vel Satis is equipped with curtain airbags, and
controlled-deflation side chest airbags housed in the backs of the front
seats and in the rear pillars. Padding built into the door panels
provides extra protection of the thorax for both front and rear
occupants.
The rear side seats are equipped with Isofix attachments which allow
child seats to be installed in a much stronger and safer way. The
general adoption of this attachment standard would eventually result in
a 20% reduction in serious injuries to child passengers aged up to four
years. Renault's accessory range includes two child seats which meet
this standard: the Easyfix seat (six months-four years) and the Elios
protective shell for small babies.
Picture of safety systems
5 - Constant peace of mind
Peace of mind for the user is also a key consideration for top-range
customers. One aspect of this peace of mind is the protection of the car
against break-ins. All the locking mechanisms, as well as being
deadlocked, are protected by shields, and control is exercised via
cables which make any attempt at ‘hooking’ more difficult. In the event
of a direct attack by force, the steering column lock and the engine
management computer are protected by covers. In addition, the steering
column lock, equipped with a coded electric control, is installed on the
lower part of the steering column. Because of its design, the pin always
engages with a socket to lock the column, whatever the position of the
steering wheel. Finally, a declutching system makes it impossible to
break off the pin by a violent blow to the steering wheel. In addition,
the aluminium doors and the composite rear hatch are equipped with
reinforcements able to resist attack for long enough to discourage any
attempt to enter by force.
Before each authorisation for engine start, the Renault Card and its
reader engage in a dialogue. The steering column is not unlocked until
the card has been interrogated, the correct reply received and the
engine start authorised. As an additional security feature, the
identification code contained within the card's transponder is a rolling
code.
If the vehicle should, despite everything, be removed without authority,
approximately 25 components carry the VIN (Vehicle Identification
Number) code, making it almost impossible to hide its origin, easing
identification.
The durability of parts has also been improved. The sparking plugs need
replacing only every 75,000 miles, compared with 18,000 or 36,000 miles
previously. For the V6 engines, air filter replacement interval is every
36,000 miles instead of every 18,000. The pollen filters remain active
for 18,000 miles instead of today's 9,000 and the cam drive belts have a
service life of 75,000 miles. The exhaust system is now entirely in
stainless steel. Compared with Safrane, the cost of maintaining Vel
Satis over the first 63,000 miles has been cut by 30%.
The cost of repair has also been reduced. The special layout of Vel
Satis has allowed the number of parts affected by an impact to be
limited. For example, at 10mph, expensive items such as the radiator,
the wings and the longerons remain undamaged. In countries like the
United Kingdom, Vel Satis benefits from low insurance premiums.
Concern for the environment also constitutes an aspect of peace of mind
in daily use. It may be measured in terms of CO2 emissions, strongly
influenced by the mass of the car, and by recycling. The use of new
materials has allowed the weight of the car to be reduced. Thus the use
of aluminium instead of steel for the doors and bonnet has allowed a
saving of 80kg. The front wings and rear hatch are made from
thermosetting plastic (SMC).
This technology, which reduces vehicle weight by allowing the
integration of functions such as attachments, offers the advantage of
providing resistance to minor impacts without damage. The seat
attachments to the floor, the rear seat support frame and the steering
column hanger are made of magnesium.
Vel Satis is recyclable to the extent of around 90% of its weight. To
achieve this objective, a policy of marking all plastic components was
systematically adopted. With the same aim, all component attachments
have been designed to allow simple and quick dismantling, through the
incorporation of fusible zones. The presence of lead (with lead-free
paint and brake pads), mercury and cadmium has been drastically reduced.
Vel Satis also includes parts made from recycled material –
sound-deadening felts, front and rear wheel arch liners, and battery
tray.
SUPERB HIGH SPECIFICATION VEL SATIS AVAILABLE |
