This Concept Car Comes With Its Own Drone

Renault SA used this week's auto show in Delhi, India, to reveal the KWID concept, a chunky crossover vehicle that can deploy its own drone to scout traffic conditions ahead.

Dubbed Flying Companion, the tiny camera-toting drone can be used to patrol a pre-programmed route and determine the car's GPS position or be operated manually by a passenger using tablet-based controls to take landscape photos or explore the car's environs.

Renault says the drone caters to young consumers who like technology and want to make driving more fun. The device is deployed from a hinged cover at the back edge of the roof.

The KWID is powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and dual-clutch transmission. It's also designed to carry a battery for all-electric operation. Interior features include electrically powered doors, touch- rather than lever-controlled gear shifting and a display screen dashboard that doubles as a connected-car services center.