Valeo Technology Debuts on Renault Concept Roadster

PARIS, March 2 -- A patented Valeo radiator that can be bent into curved shapes and an unprecedented approach to rear lighting make their debut in the Renault concept car Wind at the Geneva International Motor Show.

The segmented "spinal architecture" of Valeo's new radiator allows it to take on a curved shape, thereby saving space and easily adapting to all types of front-end designs. The innovation has allowed Renault to develop the new front-end theme of the Wind concept car, in which a radiator is located on each side of the car fascia.

Renault designed the rear lights of the Wind with a new Valeo technology combining LED technology and Valeo's patented light guides - high-tech plastic optical parts which are especially designed to create dramatic stop and turn signals that attract the attention of following drivers. The technological breakthrough followed close co-operation between Renault's designers and Valeo Lighting Systems. The result is a three-dimensional approach to highly visible rear lights that offer a different visual aspect depending on the angle of view.

Since a single LED consumes 15 times less energy compared to conventional solutions and lasts longer than the car, consumers need not change bulbs and also benefit from reduced fuel consumption.

The light source - red LEDs - is built into the center of a rear lamp, as if suspended in air. Vertical light guide blades placed in front of each light source provide a highly visible three-dimensional effect for enhanced safety.

Valeo is an independent industrial group fully focused on the design, production and sale of components, integrated systems and modules for cars and trucks. Valeo ranks among the world's top automotive suppliers. The Group has 129 plants, 65 R&D centers, 9 distribution centers and employs 68,200 people in 26 countries worldwide.