Automobile Dacia out of Romania has debuted its “Manifesto” sustainable off-road concept car. It claims to be both environmentally and economically efficient. Though it is doubtful the Manifesto will see production, it is an interesting glimpse at Dacia’s future direction may be. The layout, design, and materials used make for a compelling off-roader.

Why did Dacia make the Manifesto concept?

Dacia says the Manifesto concept “explores a connection to nature by being environmentally friendly, robust, and by demonstrating usefulness in the outdoors.” Whatever that means. But there are things that we really like about the concept, beyond the superlatives.

Because there are no doors, windows, or even a windshield, it harkens back to the early days of the Jeep. It is a time that defined what off-road meant. The Manifesto does a good job of stripping away unnecessary features to get back to fun, raw, exciting off-road antics. It makes you almost part of the environment, rather than looking through a fishbowl. 

What are some unique features of the Dacia Manifesto?

Because we bring our “stuff” with us, Dacia has come up with its “YouClip” system. It secures modular accessories inside the vehicle. Smartphones and computers can also be integrated into the Manifesto as infotainment and service devices. Plus, it already has the technology in its current production models.

In the front, you’ll notice there is only one headlight. When Designboom questioned this unique feature, the designers said, “Why use two if one provides all the light you need?” But you can also remove the headlight. It’s a large flashlight if you will.

Why is there only one headlight on the Dacia Manifesto?

Connecting people to nature is aided by four-wheel drive, plenty of clearance, and large off-road tires, which are airless. And it’s waterproof. Part of that waterproofing comes from those large sparkly black wheelhouses. They’re made from plastic garbage, fused together, with the resulting specks left in. 

The rest of the body keeps all of the surfaces clean and flat. There is only a slight bit of crown on the panel above the front lightbar, and below it with the headlight housing. And the flat rear cover can double as a fairly large workbench. Below that is the large auxiliary battery to power tools, campsite lighting, or for filling up balls and mattresses.

Even the seats are a unique feature

But the Manifesto already carries around two sleeping bags already. They what is covering the front seats. It can be removed to sleep inside or before power washing. And cork covers the dash and steering wheel as an environmental alternative.

The power would come from a variety of engines already offered by Dacia. The reason is that the company’s mission is to make as many types of engines available in all of its vehicles. So that would cover everything from a turbocharged three-cylinder engine to full electric and beyond. 

“Dacia is emphatically reaffirming its unrivaled vision of an essential, cool, robust, affordable, and environmentally efficient car,” says its press release. We say, “Build it.”