renault unveils glimpse at all-electric, retro-futuristic revamp of iconic R5 hatchback

a preview of the renault 5 e-tech electric car

Set for official global unveiling in February 2024 at the Geneva International Motor Show, Renault 5 E-Tech puts a modern, high-tech, and playful spin on the iconic Renault 5 car. The new all-electric vehicle is a retro-futuristic revolution of the cult-classic hatchback model released in 1972 — but with all the same fun and styling enhanced by a contemporary and more environmentally friendly design. The French carmaker’s glimpses of the production model ahead of the launch reveal more rugged wheel arches, a more streamlined soft-top roof profile, boxier bodywork, and more in a nod to its predecessor. The human-like smile of the original still graces the front of the E-Tech too. 

all images courtesy of Renault

an all-electric nod to the 1972 sporty r5 hatchback

The Renault 5 E-Tech is designed as a city car for the future — ‘a vehicle relevant to its time: urban, electric, attractive’, comments Gilles Vidal, Renault Design Director. Renault’s teaser images of the vehicle’s exterior design details spotlight how styling elements are sleek and modern reinterpretations of the original design. The bonnet air intake has been morphed into a charging flap, discreet LEDs power the logo and lighting signature, flush-fit lights inspired by aeronautics illuminate the rear end, and unique LED headlights which resemble the human eye mark the front. More environmentally friendly, the vehicle is also crafted from at least 22% recycled materials and is over 85% recyclable.  

In terms of specs, the French manufacturer reveals that the 5 E-Tech will feature a 100-kW electric motor and up to 400 km (248 miles) of driving range per charge. A 52 kWh battery is slated to be available when orders open. Advanced technology features, including voice interaction to optimize the journey experience, will additionally enable drivers to speak to Reno, the official Renault avatar. An onboard bidirectional charger will also ensure energy stores in the vehicle can be used to power other devices. Produced in Douai, France, Renault 5 E-Tech should be commercially available in Europe next summer, with prices starting at €25,000 (about US$27,636).

A retro-futuristic revamp of the iconic Renault 5

images reveal more rugged wheel arches, a more streamlined roof profile, and boxier bodywork

the human-like smile of the original still graces the front of the E-Tech too

flush-fit lights inspired by aeronautics illuminate the rear end

Renault 5 E-Tech will feature a 100-kW electric motor and up to 400 km of driving range per charge

voice interaction enables drivers to speak to Reno, the official Renault avatar

design details nod to the look of its predecessor, with a modern finish

project info: 

name: Renault 5 E-Tech

company: Renault