Renault's Retro Revolution: The 5 E-Tech Electric Steals the Geneva Show

The Geneva Motor Show has always been the stage for automotive marvels, and this year, it’s the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric that’s stealing hearts and headlines. With its official reveal, this isn’t just another concept car teasing us with what could be – it’s a tangible, electrifying reality that’s set to hit the roads of Europe and the UK, with deliveries starting in early 2025. Priced from an estimated £25k, this electric dream is within reach for many.

The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric is a nod to the past and a leap into the future. It’s been a journey of anticipation since the concept’s debut in 2021, and the production model has kept a whopping 95% of that concept’s charm. The design team, led by the visionary Paula Fabregat, faced a formidable challenge from Groupe Renault CEO Luca De Meo to bring the concept to life – and they delivered. The result? A car that’s as much a tribute to the original as it is a beacon of modernity.

Renault’s design director, Gilles Vidal, emphasizes that the 5 E-Tech Electric is designed to captivate all ages, whether or not they’re familiar with its heritage. It’s a car that stands out for what it is, not just for its storied history. And it’s not just about looks – those retro-inspired details are functional, too. The spoiler and Y-spoke alloy wheels aren’t just for show; they add miles to the car’s range, which is a clever blend of form and function.

“Alpine Renault” by pedrosimoes7 is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The 5 E-Tech Electric’s dimensions are comparable to the Clio, but with an electric twist. It’s set to replace the Zoe, offering a 326-litre boot and a wheelbase that promises a comfortable ride. At launch, the car will be available in five colors and three trim levels, each with its own unique flair and homage to the R5 Turbo’s iconic design.

Inside, the Renault 5 is a kaleidoscope of eras. It’s where kitsch meets contemporary, with dashboard elements and seat shapes that hark back to the original R5. The car is equipped with digital instruments, a large infotainment system running Google OS, and an in-built virtual assistant named RENO, powered by the trendy ChatGPT. RENO is designed to be helpful, not naggy, assisting drivers with everything from pairing phones to conserving battery life.

Under the hood, the 5 E-Tech Electric is the first to utilize the Renault Group’s AmpR Small platform, a testament to efficiency and innovation. With two battery options and three power variants, it promises a range of up to 249 miles. The most powerful model boasts a 0-62mph time of under 8 seconds, and while it’s front-wheel drive only, it’s engineered for nimble handling and enjoyable driving dynamics.

Charging the vehicle is a straightforward process, facilitated by the car’s compatibility with up to 100kW fast charging. This capability allows for achieving a 15-80% charge within a mere 30 minutes. Moreover, the inclusion of bi-directional charging functionality enables users to redistribute energy back into the grid or power household appliances, underscoring the vehicle’s versatility and eco-friendly features.

As we eagerly await its arrival, the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric stands as a testament to Renault’s commitment to affordability, sustainability, and driving pleasure. It’s a car that’s set to charm a new generation of drivers while winking at its predecessors – quite literally, with those playful DRLs. So, buckle up and get ready to ride into the future with a car that’s as much about where we’re going as it is about where we’ve been.