31 August 2001: Renault is to show the results of two years of thinking about simplifying the interiors of cars in a concept vehicle to be shown at Frankfurt, the Talisman.

According to the company's chief designer, Patrick Le Quement (right), the car will show the concept of 'touch design', an approach which suggests a 'softening' of the interface between driver and car in terms of ergonomics and aesthetics. He says the Talisman represents 'a reservoir of ideas' which will get its first public revelation next Monday in Paris.

A sports coupe in style, the Talisman has features such as 'butterfly' doors which ease access to both front and rear, voice actuation systems, a multi-function screen which includes rear views through miniature cameras replacing ordinary rear-view mirrors, and fixed seats - controls, including pedals, can all be adjusted to provide the best driving position.

The Talisman is powered by a V8 engine.