French automaker Renault not too long ago unveiled an all-electric restomod of its traditional R17 mannequin launched in 1971. Imagined by means of a collaboration with French designer Ora Ïto, this distinctive Renault EV is a house run mixing of a traditional previous with the know-how of the longer term, and it wants to enter manufacturing.
Forgive us for masking this unveiling so late, however Renault is admittedly not on the forefront of our information radar in relation to EVs and new fashions. The French automaker does at the moment promote all-electric fashions, however its not precisely identified for delivering modern and attractive modes of transportation.
That was a special story within the Seventies, when Renault debuted the R17 coupe, which noticed a manufacturing run in Europe all through the last decade. Throughout that point, the R17 was marketed within the US, however solely bought in small numbers. We’d argue these gross sales numbers would change if Renault introduced the EV restomod seen under into manufacturing and international markets.
Since 2021, Renault has developed a lot of distinctive inventive initiatives that collaborate with sensible minds in design to showcase workout routines in ideas that nod to the automaker’s 125-year heritage and notable fashions which have made their imprint on automotive tradition.
Renault’s newest venture is an beautiful EV model of the traditional R17 coupe, reimagined for the fashionable world with the assistance of French designer Ora Ïto.
This EV idea is the stuff Renault needs to be promoting
Within the US, at the very least. Europeans might not have fairly the urge for food (or parking house) for this model of auto lately, however this Renault EV idea is a murals, in our opinion, and we wish to see extra. The R17 restomod debuted at Maison5 in Paris final week because the fourth collaboration with Ora Ïto in as a few years.
As you possibly can see from the picture comparability under, the Renault EV idea combines new and outdated in a fantastic sculptural redesign that holds true to the unique however accentuates all parts in a futuristic but acquainted model.
The EV model of the Renault R17 is 17 cm wider and seems to have a barely shorter rear for higher aerodynamics. It additionally has redesigned wings and wheels for a extra modern-day look that’s nonetheless retro-looking.
The 2 unique headlamps have been reworked into 4 narrower rectangular modules with rounded corners and the the taillights are actually a single strip. Beneath the hood, Renault and Ïto have changed the unique R17’s front-wheel drive and longitudinal engine with gasoline injection with a rear EV powertrain that boasts 270 horsepower.
The Renault EV idea’s inside was designed to take care of the consolation of the unique R17, whereas enhancing sure parts for the all-electric age. The seats have been redesigned across the unique “petal” construction with new upholstery, and the sprint now incorporates a central display in addition to 4 small geometric screens behind the steering wheel, impressed by the dials of the unique mannequin. Ora Ïto spoke concerning the design course of and the thought behind this reimagined model of a traditional Renault automobile:
We saved probably the most distinctive design options of Renault 17, beginning with the entrance finish. My goal was so as to add stye and stream, however with out altering the character of R17. You’ll be able to nonetheless see the unique Renault 17 and its sports activities coupé seems to be. I wished so as to add my very own design codes, accentuating a number of the traits with a futuristic contact to offer them a extra timeless look. That is what I did with the wheels, for instance. My signature can also be seen contained in the automotive. We teleported Renault 17 into the longer term, making just a few refined adjustments that give it a complete new look. Our key phrase was: ‘a element just isn’t a element’. There’s a sure ambivalence in that it isn’t meant to be taken completely at face worth. We have been additionally aiming for a lighthearted contact. Renault has a powerful identification and I like that. You acknowledge a Renault once you see one, and this restomod is not any exception to the rule.
Renault shared that BEV idea sits atop a carbon fiber chassis and its “Galactic Brown” exterior is an unique shade developed specifically for this EV. The R17 restomod might be on show at Renault’s sales space on the Paris Motor Present, happening October 14-20, 2024. You’ll be able to see extra of the EV in Renault’s video under:
Electrek’s take
I’ll come proper out and say I am keen on this automotive. I’ve at all times had a tender spot for all issues retro, particularly those who nod to design parts from the Nineteen Eighties get me each time.
I cherished the Hyundai IONIQ 5 when it got here out for a similar motive—hell, I nonetheless love the IONIQ 5. Nevertheless, this Renault EV idea has taken it to a different stage. Hyundai developed one thing related with its N Imaginative and prescient 74 idea, which was not too long ago introduced to be going into manufacturing, so why can’t Renault do the identical?
I’m positive it’s simpler stated than achieved. Nonetheless, I feel many individuals would gravitate towards these kinds of EVs as a result of they’re not such a deviation from conventional design and supply a traditional look with all the advantages of zero emissions. It appears like a slam dunk, and I hope others agree with me and communicate up.
If this idea got here to fruition, I might 100% think about shopping for one )so long as I don’t have to maneuver to France). What do you guys assume? Dope, or nope?
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