Yet another surreal hybrid concept is making its way to the 2008 Paris motor show. Say hello to the Ondelios, Renault's vision of a luxury crossover of the future.
That vision apparently calls for a business jet on wheels. Never mind the blocky exterior (which, at 0.29 cD, is surprisingly aerodynamic); once passengers step through the large gullwing doors and inside the vehicle, they'll find themselves within an interior that simultaneously draws inspiration from both a Gulfstream V and the Starship Enterprise.
While the translucent dashboard and whiz-bang lighting do their part to implicate the future, six bucket seats, cantilevered from the center of the Ondelios, is fully adjustable and includes a footrest for comfort.
Beneath the gimmickry and luxury lies a hybrid powertrain system that, although new to Renault, isn't that far-fetched. At the heart of the Ondelios is a 205-hp version of Renault's 2.0-liter turbo-diesel I-4, coupled to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Renault adds a lithium-ion battery and two electric motors to that powertrain, making it a parallel hybrid. One motor at the rear axle allows the Ondelios to become an all-wheel-drive vehicle when needed, while one at the front provides a boost under hard acceleration.