Modern Technology and Distinctive Styling Revive a French Classic
The Electric Renault 5 – Retro Charm Meets Modern Tech
I think anyone who remembers the Renault 5 hatchback from the 70s and 80s will be instantly drawn to those nostalgic design lines. The concept car was a massive hit, so I’m confident it’ll translate well to the production model. Let’s delve into the specs and see if it has substance to match its style.
Power, Range, and Charging
The Renault 5 sits squarely in the ‘city car’ category, which means it’s built for zipping around town. You can choose between a 40 kWh and a larger 52 kWh battery. The smaller option will get you up to 186 miles on the WLTP cycle, while the bigger battery stretches that to around 248 miles. That’s more than enough for most daily commutes and errands.
I’m interested to see how they’ve packaged the batteries. Renault says they’ve gone for a ‘less is more’ approach, using fewer, larger modules. This should not only save weight but might also improve long-term reliability.
In terms of power, you get a few options: 70 kW (93 hp), 90 kW (120 hp), or a range-topping 110 kW (147 hp). Even with the base motor, it should be plenty nippy in city traffic, and the more powerful versions could be genuinely fun to drive.
Charging-wise, the Renault 5 can handle AC charging up to 11 kW, and the more powerful models max out at 100 kW DC fast charging. That means you can snag a quick top-up over lunch if you find yourself running low.
Tech and Gadgets That Make a Difference
Renault has thrown in some interesting tech to make the 5 stand out. My personal favourite is the vehicle-to-load (V2L) feature on the top trims. With up to 3.7 kW output, you could run power tools on a job site, charge your e-bike mid-ride, or even help a friend top up their EV in a pinch.
Inside, the infotainment setup looks solid. A 10-inch touchscreen is standard, alongside Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Just like Peugeot The Renault 5 now even integrates with ChatGPT, meaning you can essentially ask it anything, and it’ll scour the web for an answer. I’m interested to see how well that works in the real world.
Renault’s Electric Legacy
Renault is no newcomer to the electric vehicle scene. Their popular Zoe hatchback has been a consistent seller in Europe for years, proving they have a solid understanding of what EV customers want. The Renault 5 builds on this experience, taking a beloved name and infusing it with cutting-edge EV tech.
Retro Done Right
The styling of the Renault 5 is bound to spark conversation. It skillfully blends design cues from the iconic original – boxy headlights, a playful grille, even the taillights have a retro flair. Yet, it doesn’t feel like a simple copy-paste job. The overall shape is modernized, making the Renault 5 look fresh without losing its nostalgic charm.
Practical Yet Fun
Despite its compact dimensions, it seems like Renault has focused on practicality. It’s about the same size as the Chevrolet Bolt EV, and the trunk looks useable. It’s great that there’s a dedicated space for the charging cable to keep things organized.
Renault promises a fun driving experience. It shares some underpinnings with the gas-powered Clio, and the more powerful versions will likely feel nimble and responsive, especially in the city. I particularly like that they’ve fitted a multi-link rear suspension – that kind of setup is normally found in larger, more premium cars.
The Renault 5 vs. The Competition
The Renault 5 isn’t alone in the retro-inspired EV segment. Here’s how it stacks up against some key competitors:
- Fiat 500e: Similar retro vibes, slightly smaller size, comparable range.
- Honda e: Quirky styling, tech-focused interior, shorter range but ideal for strictly urban use.
- Mini Cooper SE: Sporty handling, premium feel, higher price tag.
- VW ID. 2 (upcoming): Likely the most direct competitor, details still scarce.
The Renault 5 will need to strike a balance between style, features, and price to make a compelling case against these rivals.
Why I’m Excited about the Renault 5 E-Tech EV?
Personally, I love the direction Renault is taking. The original Renault 5 was a fun, no-nonsense car, and it seems they’ve captured that spirit in the electric version. Sure, the styling might divide some, but I admire that Renault is taking a bold design risk. Add in the decent range, some clever tech, and I think they might just have a winner on their hands.
Pricing and Availability
The Renault 5 is expected to start around £25,000 which makes it competitive with other electric hatchbacks. We’re expecting deliveries to begin in Europe later this year.
So, Is the Renault 5 Worth It?
It’s still early, but I think the Renault 5 has a lot going for it. If the pricing is right, it strikes a great balance between everyday usability, unique style, and cool tech features. Would you consider one? Let me know in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Renault 5 electric cost?
The Renault 5 is expected to start around £25,000 in the European market. Exact pricing may vary depending on options and local incentives.
I love the classic Renault 5 – does the new electric version stay true to the original design?
Absolutely! The new Renault 5 takes heavy inspiration from the beloved original, with modernized design elements that keep the retro charm alive.
Is the Renault 5 electric good for long road trips?
While the Renault 5 is primarily designed for city driving, the larger 52 kWh battery option provides a range of up to 248 miles (WLTP). This makes occasional longer journeys possible, especially with access to DC fast charging.
Does the Renault 5 EV have any unique features compared to other electric cars?
Yes! The Renault 5 stands out with its vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, allowing you to power external devices or even provide a boost to another EV. It also integrates with ChatGPT for advanced voice commands and information searches.
When can I buy the Renault 5 electric?
Renault plans to start deliveries of the 5 electric in Europe later this year. Availability in other markets may vary.
