SunCar (France) - AllCarIndex

The Arpege prototype was presented to the public at the Geneva Motor Show held in March 1980.

The Arpege had a reinforced polyester fibreglass body reminiscent of two-seater sports cars of the 1930s, but was not inspired by any particular model of that era. The body, including the floor, was a single piece and bolted to a tubular frame made of bent sheet metal. A wooden dashboard, an external spare wheel, a front grille and vintage-style headlights were its hallmarks.

Both the engine and many other mechanical elements came from the Renault 5 TS- engine, cooling system, transmission, 4-speed gearbox, 4-wheel independent suspension, hydraulic and telescopic shock absorbers, fuel tank, windscreen, windscreen wipers and washers, windows, seats, handles and sun visors.

Due to its high price (100,000 francs), the company ran into serious financial problems and in 1984 the business group Kamouh International from Clermont-Ferrand took over the company and the brand.

The range was expanded with two new models - a Boulangere (baker's van) and a Jeep. Production ceased in 1987, with approximately 200 units produced.