The Dacia Manifesto concept is not a moon buggy

No, before you ask, it’s not a lunar Rover, though to appearances there’s a real out-of-this-world vibe. Dacia says this ‘lab for ideas’ is ‘essential but cool, robust, built for outdoor activities and efficient from an economic and environmental standpoint’. What it isn’t, is a preview of any specific upcoming production model. Boo.

The body is built to withstand heavy duty off roading, while the rugged tyres, high ride height and four-wheel-drive will get you where you want to go. With no doors, windows or windshield, Dacia says there are no barriers between the occupants and the environment. Everyone on board the Manifesto is fully immersed in nature.

Therefore, sensibly, the cabin of the Manifesto is also entirely waterproof. At the same time, it’s an efficiently connected vehicle, integrating with the smartphones of its users, reflecting the system Dacia uses in its current production cars and is set to evolve in the future.

There’s modularity to the Manifesto, which uses a single headlight (because two would be decadent and wasteful) that’s detachable so you can take it with you on foot for exploring the wilderness at night. The seat covers are also removable, serving a second function as sleeping bags.

The Manifesto is lightweight for a reduced energy footprint and uses a number of recycled materials in its construction. The main body parts are comprised largely of recycled plastic, while the cabin is trimmed in natural materials like cork. There are environmentally friendly airless tyres, which are more durable and puncture proof, lasting as long as the vehicle itself.

As well as being a designer object, Manifesto Concept encapsulates our vision and combines a wide range of innovations,” said David Durand, Dacia Design Director.

“Some involve extreme implementation, but they are still affordable for customers. We will be using a few of them on future Dacia models.”