The return of the iconic Renault 5 nameplate to play a critical role in the brand’s ambitious plan to launch seven new electric vehicles by 2025.
Renault has revealed the Renault 5 Prototype, marking the cornerstone of the French brand’s dramatic ‘Renaulution’ transformation plan. The concept car is a modern interpretation of the iconic Renault 5 city car that preceded the Renault Clio. First launched in 1972, the Renault 5 quickly became France’s most-popular car and sold over 5.5 million units during its 14-year lifecycle.
Renault’s Design Director, Gilles Vidal said “The design of the Renault 5 Prototype is based on the R5, cult model of our heritage. This prototype simply embodies modernity, a vehicle relevant to its time: urban, electric, attractive.”
The 2020 Prototype may be heavily inspired by the original’s clean lines and practical shape, but modern design details – including LED lighting, glowing badges and flush body panels – bring the 5 bang up to date. Other modern touches include a charging port tucked away behind the air intake and rear lights that include aero flaps.
Renault says the textile roof is derived from the world of furniture while details like the French-flag rearview mirror and ‘invented in France’ inscription are said to inject a healthy dose of French charm and a hint of mischief. The interior is yet to be revealed but a small transparent screen on the dashboard allows occupants to project messages to people outside the vehicle.
While the electric powertrain is yet to be detailed, it’s likely that the 5 will be underpinned by the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance CMF-EV platform. The Nissan Ariya and reimagined Renault Megane eVision concept cars first previewed the new electric-only platform last year – showcasing the adaptability of the architecture which is designed to increase interior space within reduced dimensions and shorter overhangs.
Group Renault’s new strategic plan, dubbed ‘Renaulution’, aims to help the firm’s recovery and future growth with 24 new vehicles – including seven electric vehicles – by 2025. The plan also includes the expansion of Dacia’s budget-focused lineup and Alpine will pivot to become Renault’s electric-only performance brand. Renault’s company boss, Luca de Meo says the group’s focus has shifted from maximising volume to increasing the value and profitability of its vehicles.
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