Right when the new Dacia front-end identity, marked by the optical white logo, confirms its commercial validity by delivering first place on Italy’s private vehicles’ market to the manufacturer (and third place in France), some tempting details outline the upcoming design prospects. Especially regarding the successful Duster, which has just celebrated twelve years since its presentation, and is on track towards a capital evolution in 2024. “Today, some portions of the bodywork already use 12% recycled plastic, compared to a market average of 8%. The next generation will venture to use up to 20%, in the wake of what was tested with the Manifesto prototype”, David Durand, head of design, lets slip during an interview. “It’ll be a genuine engineering challenge. Components that contain so much re-used material, in fact, tend to weaken. But we’re working on managing the problem in the best way possible”.
Alongside the fundamental ecological focus, various innovative solutions will also consolidate the Dacia values linked to simple, intelligent functionality: “For example, we’re developing a system for fastening mobile accessories, also inspired by the concept and its YouClip, to hook cup-holders, bum bags, or other items to the dashboard”. These may include a large, powerful LED “camping” light, on the model of the interesting kit with tent and bed, which just became available on the Jogger. Finally, in relation to connectivity, the central role currently devoted to the owner’s cell phone (in deference to a policy called “Bring your Own Device”) will be further developed thanks to direct interaction with the steering wheel commands. And the style? In this respect, Durand doesn’t let anything slip, not even with reference to the 2021 Bigster prototype: “For the moment, we’re still too pleased with the new nose with no chrome borders to reveal other ‘secrets’”, he comments with a smile.
