20900 Fluence Press Release en 95FFFB0C

8/14/2019 20900 Fluence Press Release en 95FFFB0C

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Renault Fluence is a three-volume saloon with fluid, elegant styling which is set to enhance the brandsfooting in the international C-segment marketplace (Turkey, Russia, Romania, the Mediterranean Basin,Australia, the Middle East and Europe). Renault Fluence was designed with a view to standing out as themost attractive car in its class, with a long list of features that set it apart from its rivals, including its

robust, sporty exterior, comfortable cabin and an array of useful technological aids.Fluence targets customers looking for a status-enhancing saloon and will be built on the existingassembly line at the Oyak-Renault plant in Bursa, Turkey, where the four-door Mgane II was previouslyproduced. Developed by an international team of engineers, Renault Fluence benefits fully from theRenault-Nissan Alliances extensive engineering experience. It is due to go on sale in November in Turkey,Russia and Romania, before gradually being introduced in more than 80 countries worldwide.

RENAULT FLUENCE, TRAVEL UPGRADED

PRESS RELEASE

October 26, 2009


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FLUID, ELEGANT STYLING

The combination of Renault Fluences size and generous performance/equipment package puts it directlybetween the compact family saloon C-segment and the upper-medium segment. It stands out from itscompetitors through its fluid, elegant lines, while cabin comfort and interior refinement are immediatelyapparent through the high quality of finish, trim materials and carefully designed ergonomics.

RENAULT FLUENCE PUTS THE ACCENT ON TRAVELLING COMFORT

Renault Fluences generous proportions are an eloquent pointer to its welcoming, comfortable cabin which

is given over entirely to the wellbeing of its occupants.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY TO EASE THE STRAIN OF MOTORING AND TRAVELLING

Renault Fluence offers a high-end package, with a long list of technologies designed to assist the driver,such as hands-free entry and starting, with automatic central locking as the card-holder walks awayfrom the car. It also features the new integrated Carminat TomTom navigation system for a price of lessthan 500, plus a range of audio systems, including the high-end 3D Sound by Arkamys withBluetooth telephony and Plug & Music connectivity.

DRIVING ENJOYMENT

Renault Fluences chassis delivers a comfortable, enjoyable ride, and its suspension has been engineeredto deliver steering and handling precision and filter out noise and vibrations.


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ENGINES THAT COMBINE RESPONSIVENESS WITH FUEL ECONOMY

Depending on market, Renault Fluence is available with a wide range of economical powertrains whichare all a pleasure to drive: five Renault eco diesel versions (dCi 85 with five-speed manual gearbox, dCi 90 DPF with five-speed

manual gearbox, dCi 105 with six-speed manual gearbox, and dCi 110 DPF with six-speed manualgearbox or EDC),

four petrol versions (1.6 16V 110 with five-speed manual gearbox or with four-speed automatictransmission, and 2.0 16V 140 with six-speed manual gearbox or CVT),

a choice of three automatic transmissions: the new six-speed efficient dual-clutch transmission (EDC),the new CVT continuously variable transmission and the DP2 four-speed automatic transmission.

SOLID FUNDAMENTALS QUALITY, SAFETY AND RESPECT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

Renault Fluence has been rigorously engineered and, during its development, it was put through acomprehensive endurance testing programme in extreme conditions with a view to ensuring an exceptionalstandard of reliability and durability, especially in light of the demanding road conditions it is likely toface in certain markets. It has also been developed to deliver leading safety performance in each of itsmarkets thanks to a comprehensive list of equipment, including ABS with emergency brake assist, ESC,up to six airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, cruise control with speed

limiter, etc.

A NEW VEHICLE WITH A GLOBAL CALLING

Renault Fluence was developed by an international team of engineers from the Renault-Nissan Alliance.It will be sold in more than 80 countries, a global calling which is poised to boost Renaults C-segmentline-up in markets such as Turkey, Romania, Russia, the Mediterranean Basin, Australia, the Middle-Eastand Europe.


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WITH ITS FLUID, ELEGANT LINES, HIGH-ENDPERFORMANCE/EQUIPMENT PACKAGE AND

ATTRACTIVE PRICE TAG, RENAULT FLUENCESEEKS TO APPEAL TO MOTORISTS WORLDWIDE.


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01FLUID, ELEGANT STYLING

03ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY TO EASE THE STRAINOF TRAVELLING AND MOTORING

05ENGINES THAT COMBINE RESPONSIVENESSWITH FUEL ECONOMY

07A NEW VEHICLE WITH A GLOBAL CALLING

02RENAULT FLUENCE PUTS THE ACCENTON TRAVELLING COMFORT

04DRIVING ENJOYMENT

06SOLID FOUNDATIONS QUALITY,SAFETY AND RESPECT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT


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MODERN, PLEASING FORMS

Renault Fluence is an attractive, well-proportioned three-volume saloonwhich stands at 4,620mm in length, 1,479mm high and 1,809mm wide,with a wheelbase of 2,700mm.Streamlined headlights herald the start of an elegant waist line whichsweeps harmoniously along Fluences sides to the boot. The surround

and chromed grille of the upper air intake embellish the cars front-endlooks with a sporty stance, while Renault Fluence's status-enhancingappeal is heightened by its sculptured wheel arches and long bonnet. At the rear, the horizontal, two-part lights allow a generous bootaperture and emphasize the car's thoroughly modern styling evenfurther.Fluence packs several upmarket touches, with the lower window andboot trims, foglamp surrounds and door handles all picked out inchrome, while the B-pillar uprights are gloss black along with bodycolour side protective mouldings.

FLUID, ELEGANT STYLING01The combination of Renault Fluences size and generous performance/equipment package puts it directlybetween the compact family saloon C-segment and upper-medium segment. It stands out from itscompetitors through its fluid, elegant lines, while cabin comfort and interior refinement are immediatelyapparent through the high quality of finish, trim materials and carefully designed ergonomics.


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PERCEPTIONS OF STRENGTH AND QUALITY

The sense of strength and safety is reinforced by the carefullyproportioned balance between the windows and the large surface areaof the doors, the lower part of which incorporates protective panels.Seen from the side, a distinctive character line flows rearward from therounded front wings before emphasizing the cars solid rear haunches.Renault Fluence creates an impression of quality, and particular attentionhas been paid to the fit and finish of its body panels (windscreen pillarsand refuelling flap, for example). The rear bumper incorporates discreet

parking sensors. The windscreen wipers are tucked away behind thebonnets upper edge, partly for aesthetic reasons, but also to reducewind noise and improve aerodynamic efficiency.


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FLUENCE SPORT WAY: MORE EXCLUSIVE STYLING STILL

Renault Fluence Sport Way provides a preview of a sport version of thestandard model which is due to go on sale in the course of 2010.Fluence Sport Way is packed with specific standard exterior stylingfeatures such as its front and rear spoilers, profiled, body colour sideprotective mouldings, sills, skirt, diffuser and 19-inch aluminium alloywheels. A choice of powerplants will be available for this Sport version,including the 140-horsepower 2.0 16V petrol engine.

A SIMPLE YET ELEGANTLY STYLED INTERIOR

In the cabin, the airy fascia design incorporates taut, uncluttered lines thatare complemented by the sweep of the dashboard trim strip. Essentialdriving functions and useful accessories all fall easily to hand. They areconcentrated around the steeringwheel and centre console with a view tofreeing up as much space as possible and to make the car even moreuser-friendly.Significant care went into choosing the ideal materials and finish: theintegrated upper dashboard cowling has a soft-touch finish, yet it is also

resistant to everyday knocks and exposure to direct sunlight.The step-up in specification is equally visible in cabin details such as thechrome finish applied to the door handles, instrument surrounds andgearlever knob, as well as the availability of either light- or dark-huedleather upholstery.Particular attention has been paid to the decorative trimming to create avaried range of distinctive ambiences, and also distinguish betweendifferent equipment levels. Customers can choose from a light, elegantinterior which exudes a sense of wellbeing, or something darker, withmore sport-oriented overtones.


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AN ERGONOMIC DRIVING POSITION

It is very easy to feel at home at the wheel of Renault Fluence, thanksto its sound ergonomics and straightforward interfaces. On board, everydriver will be able to find the ideal seating position thanks to a widerange of adjustability options, with all the controls close at hand. In amatter of seconds, drivers can: adjust the angle of their seatback and headrest, alter the level of lumbar support, adapt the steeringwheel for rake and reach1,

vary the seat position (it can be moved fore and aft through up to240mm, and up or down by +/-35mm).

All essential cockpit functions fall easily to hand. These include thecontrols for the navigation and climate control systems, the steering-wheel-mounted radio and telephone fingertip remote controls and thecontrols for the cruise control/speed limiter.

RENAULT FLUENCE PUTS THE ACCENTON TRAVELLING COMFORT

02

Renault Fluences generous proportions are an eloquent pointer to its welcoming, comfortable cabin which

is given over entirely to the wellbeing of its occupants.


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SPACE AND A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING

The sense of onboard comfort is reinforced by the attention to detail in theform of reduced noise levels and high standards of interior space, includingclass-topping elbow room (1,480mm at the front, 1,475mm at the rear).Back-seat passengers also enjoy outstanding legroom, and kneeroom of238mm.

Renault Fluences cabin provides more than 23 litres of stowage space,including:

an illuminated, chilled2

nine-litre glovebox, a 2.2-litre centre console, a 2.6-litre bin in each front door.

The 530dm3 boot capacity is one of the biggest in its class. Access isfacilitated by the low sill-height (727mm) and wide aperture (1,020mm),which has been made possible by incorporating one part of the rear lightcluster within the boot lid.

1 Depending on market

2 Vehicles equipped with automatic climate control


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The 60/40-split folding rear seat enables the carrying capacity to be

increased to suit the needs of the moment. The absence of any steelpartition between the cabin and the boot makes this feature particularlyuseful when long or bulky items need to be carried.


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PERFECT CABIN TEMPERATURE AT ALL TIMES

No effort has been spared in terms of thermal comfort, either. To ensuremaximum efficiency, notably in markets exposed to fierce heat andhumidity, all versions of Renault Fluence feature climate control asstandard equipment even at entry level. The system is complementedby air vents positioned: at the base of the windscreen, as well as at the centre and both ends

of the dashboard for front-seat passengers, beneath the front seats and at the rear of the centre console for those

sitting in the back, depending on version.

On some models, automatic dual-zone climate control is also available.Tried and proven on the Mgane range, this system is supremely andquietly efficient. It enables the driver and front passenger to selectindividual temperature and fan-speed preferences via the Soft-Auto-Fast control: the Auto mode optimizes thermal and acoustic comfort and swiftly

adjusts the system to an appropriate setting, the quiet Soft mode places the emphasis on effective distribution, the Fast mode ensures rapid ventilation of the whole cabin.


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ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY TO EASE THE

STRAIN OF TRAVELLING AND MOTORING

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Renault Fluence offers a high-end package, with a long list of technologies designed to assist the user, suchas hands-free entry and starting, with automatic central locking as the card-holder walks away from thecar. It also features the new integrated Carminat TomTom navigation system for a price of less than500,plus a range of audio systems, including the high-end 3D Sound by Arkamys with Bluetooth telephonyand Plug & Music connectivity.

THE NEW INTEGRATED CARMINAT TOMTOM NAVIGATION SYSTEM

Simple to use, the Carminat TomTom navigation system costs lessthan 500 and provides: clear, precise maps displayed on a large, 5.8-inch screen, real-time traffic information and alternative route options, notification of speed limits, a comprehensive selection of points of interest, speed-camera alerts (depending on market), a range of functions that can be tailored to suit individual needs and

tastes.

The systems integration within the dashboard is beneficial in termsof both quality and security. It is easy to update and upgrade, too, by

simply linking its SD card to the internet. A permanent, dedicatedwebsite (http://www.renault-multimedia.com) provides up-to-the-minute road network data and enables users to make personalizedset-up changes.


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A NEW AUDIO RANGE FOCUSED ON SOUND QUALITY

AND CONNECTIVITY

Renault Fluence benefits from the entry level 60W RadioSat Classicsystem which includes fingertip remote control, an MP3-compatible CDplayer and an RCA connection.For customers seeking even more refined performance, Renault hasworked with Arkamys to develop the 3D Sound by Arkamys systemwhich incorporates: a powerful 140W system with eight speakers (four woofers and four

tweeters), Bluetooth connectivity, Arkamys digital sonic tuning, which provides three-dimensional

surround sound and precise sound reproduction tailored to suit theforms of the cabin and the materials employed,

a double antenna to ensure optimal radio reception.

The Plug & Music option enables drivers to control auxiliary players(such as an iPod, or anything with a USB connection) via thesteeringwheel-mounted fingertip remote controls. The menu andplaylists are displayed on the dashboard screen.Bluetooth connectivity also enables the driver to operate the telephonevia the steeringwheel-mounted remote control.

Several other similarly practical touches complete this high-techpackage (available as a standard upgrade on some models, or as anoption on others). These include a hands-free entry and ignition card(with automatic door locking as the card-holder walks away from thecar) and cruise control with speed limiter.


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DRIVING ENJOYMENT04Renault Fluences chassis delivers a comfortable, enjoyable ride, and its suspension has been engineeredto deliver steering and handling precision and filter out noise and vibrations.

A BALANCED COMBINATION OF RIDE COMFORT

AND OUTSTANDING ROADHOLDING

Renault Fluences front suspension features MacPherson-type strutswith rectangular lower arms and a 22mm-diameter anti-roll bar,while the rear incorporates a programmed-deflection flexible beam.The combination of springs calibrated at 19.5mm/100DaN at the frontand 20.2mm/100DaN at the rear and work on damping has enhancedthe vertical suspension performance and reduced body roll.

Renault Fluences specific roll angle which defines the tilt of the bodyas it corners, and therefore its ability to corner flat is 0.42 for lateralacceleration of 1m/s. The segment average is 0.45.


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Renault Fluence also benefits from a particularly effective braking system,with large discs that provide both outstanding stopping power and durability.Thanks to 280mm-diameter vented front discs and 260mm rear discs3,it comes to a halt from 100kph after repeated braking in just 39 metres.

Depending on engine, three tyre sizes are available: 15-inch (205/65), Bridgestone or Michelin, 16-inch (205/60), Bridgestone or Goodyear, 17-inch (205/55), Bridgestone.

NEW-GENERATION ELECTRIC POWER STEERING

Renault Fluences electric power steering combines precise driverfeedback with swift, accurate response to instructions from the wheel.It is easy to use and feels completely natural. The technology employedand the calibration of the control unit ensure both steering precision andgenuine driving enjoyment. The improvements cover: the fitment of an inductive torque sensor (0.6ms), which is four times

quicker than an optical sensor, increased steering control unit sampling frequency (1000Hz,

compared with 420Hz in the case of Mgane II), a broader dynamic servo motor bandwidth (300Hz, compared with

70Hz in the case of Mgane II).

3 Versions equipped with ABS


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ENGINES THAT COMBINERESPONSIVENESS WITH FUEL ECONOMY

05

Depending on market, Renault Fluence is available with a wide range of economical powertrains which are alla pleasure to drive: five Renault eco diesel versions (dCi 85 with five-speed manual gearbox, dCi 90 DPF with five-speed manual

gearbox, dCi 105 with six-speed manual gearbox, and dCi 110 DPF with six-speed manual gearbox or EDC), four petrol versions (1.6 16V 110 with five-speed manual gearbox or with four-speed automatic

transmission, and 2.0 16V 140 with six-speed manual gearbox or CVT),

a choice of three automatic transmissions: the all-new six-speed efficient dual-clutch transmission (EDC),the new CVT continuously variable transmission and the DP2 four-speed automatic transmission.

PETROL ENGINES

Depending on market, Renault Fluence is available with a choice of twopetrol engines: the 1.6 16V and the 2.0 16V which deliver 110 and140 horsepower respectively. These two engines are acclaimed fortheir low-end flexibility and their punch at higher revs, as well as theirrefinement at all engine speeds.The 110hp (81kW) 1.6 16V boasts peak torque of 151Nm at 4,250rpm

and drives through either a five-speed manual gearbox (JH3) orfour-speed automatic transmission (DP2).The 140-horsepower (105kW) 2.0 16V engine produces 195Nm of torqueat 3,750rpm. It will be available with either a six-speed manual gearbox(TL4) or CVT continuously variable transmission. The latter was developedby the Renault-Nissan Alliance and provides a smoother ride by eliminatingthe need for gear changes and consequent traction interruptions.

Evolutions to the automatic transmission following the changefrom DP0 to DP2:

The DP2 automatic transmission features a brand new ZF torqueconverter. The innovative design of the latters blades hascontributed to a sensation of even greater driving comfort thanks tothe improvement they make to gearshift performance. The latest

software, too, plays a key role in delivering enhanced driving pleasurethanks to its specific calibration for even smoother gear changes.Together, these evolutions ensure swifter response while alsolimiting climbs in engine speed.


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How CVT works

In the case of a conventional automatic transmission, the ability toadapt the point on the engines operating curve is restricted by thenumber of gears (five or six). The continuous variation of CVT allowsthe point on the engines operating curve to be optimized, evenduring transitory phases. The aim is to propose continuous variationof several ratios by simultaneously adjusting the diameter of twopulleys which are linked by a steel belt. There are consequently nogear shifts as there would be with a conventional gearbox. Thismeans that the CVT can select the point on the engines operatingcurve (revs and throttle) with a view to optimizing fuel consumption,emissions and acoustic performance. Fuel economy is improvedcompared with a conventional automatic transmission.


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DIESEL ENGINES

Renault Fluences broad range of diesel engines (dCi 85, dCi 90 DPF,dCi 105 and dCi 110 DPF) features advanced technology and amarket-leading balance between performance and fuel economy.Widely acclaimed for its economical fuel consumption and drivingpleasure, the 1.5-litre dCi block (1,461cc) is available for RenaultFluence in a choice of four power outputs, with the 85hp and 105hpversions joined by the particulate filter-equipped dCi 90 and dCi 110versions. These four powerplants stand out through their low CO2emissions (119g/km) which ensure that they all qualify for the Renaulteco signature.

Thanks to their particulate filter, the dCi 90 and dCi 110 engines are

both Euro5-ready.Their DPF functions without the driver noticing thanksto a regeneration system based on the presence of a fifth injector in theexhaust line. This Renault system is covered by 30 patents andcontributes to reduced maintenance costs.

The block itself is praised for its efficiency and acoustic performance,as well as for the responsive performance it delivers from low revsthanks to its optimized combustion process (five squirts per cycle) andspecific turbocharger calibration. The dCi 90 and dCi 110 boast torqueof 200Nm and 240Nm at 1,750rpm respectively. For enhanced fuelefficiency, they are equipped with a new fuel return rail and a newcontrol unit, while injection pressure has been increased to 1,650 bar.


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New six-speed automatic transmission EDC

The six-speed dual clutch transmission stands out as a furtherillustration of Renaults determination to combine comfort, drivingenjoyment and respect for the environment. It marks a major break-through in the following areas: CO2 emissions and fuel consumption figures comparable with

those of a vehicle equipped with a manual gearbox, fast, fluid gear changes,

instant response to driver input.

In terms of running and maintenance costs, the dCi 90 and dCi 110figure among the most economical engines in their class. Oil changeintervals are recommended every 30,000km (or every two years), whilethe diesel filter has a life expectancy of 60,000km. The timing belt onlyneeds changing every 160,000km, and the particulate filter comes with alifetime guarantee.

From 2011, Renault Fluence will be available with the dCi 110 DPFengine mated to the new six-speed automatic transmission EDC(Efficient Dual Clutch).


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SOLID FOUNDATIONS QUALITY, SAFETYAND RESPECT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

06

Renault Fluence has been rigorously engineered and, during its development, it was put through acomprehensive endurance testing programme in extreme conditions with a view to ensuring an exceptionalstandard of reliability and durability, especially in light of the demanding road conditions it is likely to facein certain markets. It has also been developed to deliver leading safety performance in each of its marketsthanks to a comprehensive list of equipment, including ABS with emergency brake assist, ESC, up to sixairbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, cruise control with speed limiter, etc.

RELIABILITY AND DURABILITY PROVEN BY AN EXTREME ENDURANCE

TESTING PROGRAMME A PLEDGE OF RENAULT QUALITY

In the course of its development, Renault Fluence was put through

its paces in an exacting endurance testing programme in punishingconditions (extreme heat and cold, poor roads, dust, etc.). A fleet ofmore than 100 test cars covered almost five million kilometres tofine-tune Renault Fluences specification. A raft of additional checkswere built into the standard testing procedure to take into account thedemanding road conditions found in the majority of Renault Fluencesmarkets.

Fluence benefits from Renaults ongoing efforts to reduce the cost ofeveryday motoring by between 20 and 30 per cent. For instance,oil-change intervals are to be extended to 30,000 kilometres (or everytwo years) on all versions (with the exception of the dCi 85: 20,000km

or every year), while climate control systems no longer need to bereplenished.


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REAL-WORLD SAFETY PERFORMANCE WHICH MATCHES

CUSTOMERS NEEDS AND EXPECTATIONS

Fluence was designed using the same philosophy that applies throughoutthe Renault range. The company has capitalized on studies conductedby LAB4 and also used its extensive engineering expertise to developefficient safety systems relevant to the real-world driving conditionsfound in all the countries where Fluence is marketed.

Entry-level Fluence models will be equipped with:

ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency braking assist, with automatic activation of the hazard

warning lights, ESC (electronic stability control) with CSV5 understeer control, three-point inertia-reel front seatbelts with pretensioners and load

limiters, inertia-reel seatbelts with load limiters for all three rear seats, driver and passenger airbags5, two lateral thorax airbags5 and two

curtain airbags5, warning alert if driver or passenger seatbelts are unfastened 5, three-point Isofix anchorage for outer rear seats, cruise control with speed limiter5, latest-generation headrests.

A REAL EFFORT IN FAVOUR OF THE ENVIRONMENT

Thanks to Renault Fluences contained weight (average for the line-up:1,250kg), carefully-honed aerodynamics and the availability of five dieselversions which all emit 119g of CO2 /km, the new model is a perfectillustration of the ongoing progress Renault is making in terms ofenvironmental protection.

All the diesel-powered versions of Fluence qualify for the Renault ecosignature by meeting the three following criteria:

CO2 emissions of less than 140g/km, manufactured in an ISO 14001-certified factory (Oyak-Renault, Bursa,

Turkey), vehicles to be 95 per cent end-of-life recoverable, with at least five per

cent of the plastics they contain to be sourced from recycling.Renault Fluence is 95 per cent end-of-life recoverable, while almostseven per cent of the plastics it contains is sourced from recycling,equivalent to an average of 12kg.

4 LAB: the Accident Analysis, Biomechanics and Human Behaviour Laboratory of PSA

Peugeot-Citron and Renault

5 Depending on version or market


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A NEW VEHICLE WITH A GLOBAL CALLING07Renault Fluence was developed by an international team of engineers from the Renault-Nissan Alliance.It will be sold in more than 80 countries, a global calling which is poised to boost Renaults C-segmentline-up in markets such as Turkey, Romania, Russia, the Mediterranean Basin, Australia, the Middle-Eastand Europe.The Korean equivalent to Fluence namely New SM3, which is marketed under the Renault Samsung

Motors brand has already emerged as the second-best selling model of its segment in Korea, with totalsales of 13,000 units.

INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Renault Fluence is the fruit of close collaboration between engineeringteams from France, Japan, Korea and Turkey. This joint-developmentapproach, which involved task-sharing between four parties with suchdiverse cultures, turned out to be a particularly stimulating challengewithin the Renault-Nissan Alliance.

The synergies permitted by the Alliance included the use of a shared

platform and assemblies, as well as the prospect of additional sales inKorea, which ensured a first class economic model for the project.

Renault Fluence is based on the same platform as Mgane III andemploys a Mgane II subframe, Nissan rear suspension (from NissanSentra), a high-end climate control system (shared with Laguna andMgane) and Renault-Nissan Alliance powertrains, the objective being to

profit from the best that each existing platform has to offer and tocapitalize on proven technologies.

The total development time was 28 months from the design approvalstage to the green light for the model's release. A task transfer scheme,which saw those involved transfer their file to their counterpart oncompletion of their particular task, enabled the different engineeringteams to streamline the coordination of their respective contributions tothe project.


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At the end of 2006, a team of around 30 Korean engineers wasdispatched to work out of Renaults Technocentre, near Paris, France,where they worked on Renault development processes ahead of thelaunch of the Korean version of Renault Fluence (New SM3).Certain components seen on Renault Fluence, such as the loudspeakers,rear seatbelt mounts and chrome features, stemmed from thiscollaboration between the Korean and French teams. Similarly, some 30Turkish engineers spent six months at the Technocentre. The Korean andTurkish teams held weekly meetings, and 20 or so Korean engineerstravelled to Turkey to assist the production start-up of the model at Bursa.

Nissan has also played a key role in the development of Renault Fluence,its input extending from the rear suspension to the powertrains.Last but not least, Renault Fluence was put through a gruelling road-testprogramme in the main markets where it will be sold: Korea, Australia,Dubai, Russia, Romania, etc.

A GLOBAL MARKET

Three-volume vehicles are the norm in the international C-segmentmarketplace and account for the biggest market share worldwide, allsegments included.Destined for sale chiefly in Turkey, as well as in eastern and centralEuropean markets, Renault Fluence will gradually be introduced acrossthe rest of the world notably in the Middle East, Australia and westernEurope starting from 2010.

In the Middle East, the C segment accounts for almost a quarter of thetotal market, three-quarters of which is covered by three-box vehicles,This competitive market is currently dominated by Asian manufacturers(Japanese and Korean), but it is expected that Renault Fluence willenable Renault to increase its market share in what is a particularlybuoyant sector, since C-segment three-volume vehicle sales have goneup eightfold from 2000 to 2008, and continue to rise.In Australia, the compact three-volume market is smaller than it is in theMiddle East, since it accounts for approximately 10 per cent of the totalmarket. That said, three-volume vehicles represent a significant andstable slice of C segment sales (more than 80 per cent).

In western Europe, the three-volume vehicle market accounts for

approximately three per cent of the C segment. The principal market isSpain (five per cent of the segment). Despite the downturn in the sale ofcompact three-volume vehicles noted in recent years, western Europe,and notably Spain, continues to stand out as a real market opportunityfor Renault. Fluence rounds off the New Mgane range with the additionof a three-volume version which boosts Renaults line-up in theC-segment, the biggest in volume terms in Europe.


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Renault Fluence, Travel upgraded

Renault Fluence technical data is available at www.media.renault.com

> Cars > Renault > Passenger Cars > Renault FluenceHigh-resolution photos of Renault Fluence can be downloaded from www.media.renault.com> Photo Library > Renault > Passenger Cars > Renault Fluence

DRIVE THE CHANGETHE NEW BASELINE OF THE RENAULT BRAND AND GROUP.

The new baseline of the Renault brand and group, Drive the Change is faithful to the brands valuesand expresses the ambition of Renault, an innovative, human company, to pioneer sustainablemobility for all.France's number-one car brand, Renault builds on more than 110 years of innovation to bringcustomers breakthrough top-quality products and services that are ingenious, appealing, affordableand carbon-efficient.

Renaults new baseline expresses the deep-rooted values of our business culture enthusiastic,innovative, human and forges a new path in automotive design and use.

20900 Fluence Press Release en 95FFFB0C

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