Bertone Novanta concept

Bertone is celebrating it's 90th birthday with the debut of the Novanta concept vehicle. Novanta returns to a classic Bertone theme - that of an executive saloon. Novanta relies on drive-by-wire technology from SKF, for the control of all major driving systems.

The new technology has had a major influence during the design and architectural development of the Novanta.

Eliminating many of the constraints imposed by traditional mechanical systems, by-wire technology has allowed the designers to rethink all of the structural elements of the interior and to make new information technologies accessible. This re-evaluation is an evolutionary step from last years Bertone-SKF Filo concept.

The body form is based on a contrast of concave and convex volumes, that are underlined by tense geometric lines. The side shows a smooth vertical flank defined by a high belt line and sloping roofline.

At the back, the roof forms almost a right angle with the steep rear window that drops in a decisive movement. The sharp shoulder line kicks up as it reaches the rear pillar, with the last part of the body bevelled downward in a unique profile. The exterior architecture, moving the visual centre of gravity to the rear axle, gives the overall look a streamlined quality.

The sides are asymmetric: on the left side is a single door for the driver, and on the right two doors for the passengers. The grill, divided into three separate air inlets, dominates the front. The rear light clusters, aligned with the exhaust outlets, are only visible when lit.

Driver access to Novanta is eased by the rear hinging of the left side door. The interior has the space, comfort and features expected of an executive class saloon. The Guida - the drivers control unit - stows unobtrusively in the door panel when Novanta is staionary. Once in the drivers seat, a light pull on the Guida causes the door to close automatically. The Guida and it's supporting arm pivot out in front of the driver.

A particulary striking feature of Novanta's interior is the luminous strip that runs the entire midline of the passenger compartment. Dropping to the floor immediately in front of both the front and rear seats, this strip displays information from the comprehensive driving and navigation aids, and the audio and climate control

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