New Renault 5 electric car on sale by 2025
Iconic Renault 5 to be reborn as retro-styled EV
- Styling clearly inspired by original
- Expected to be cheaper than rivals
- Minimalist interior likely
Renault has announced plans to create a new version of the classic Renault 5 hatchback. Unlike the 1980s original, the new Renault 5 will be sold as an electric car, rivalling cars like the Honda e and MINI Electric.
A confirmed price is a long way off but Renault boss Luca de Meo has promised an affordable starting point. It should undercut the cars mentioned above, and may come in at under £20,000, like the entry-level electric Fiat 500.
The styling is a modern reinterpretation of the iconic Renault 5 design, with LED lighting elements and tiny overhangs. It’ll be a five-door, with the rear door handles hidden in the rear pillars. Clever touches include daytime running lights in place of the original’s fog lights and the bonnet air vent repurposed as a charging port.
We’re yet to see the interior of this concept but a pared-back look is likely. This would make it feel both modern and retro because the original car had much less standard equipment than any current Renault model. A large touchscreen similar to the one in the Renault Clio and Renault Captur may be fitted on higher-spec models.
What does it mean for car buyers?
This electric Renault 5 concept combines the old-school charm of the original model with a powertrain that’ll bring it right up to date. While technical details like range and performance aren’t yet known, it should offer similar statistics to its main rivals. Crucially, it should be cheaper than the similarly retro Honda e and MINI Electric, so we can see this becoming a popular model when it finally hits showrooms.
Read our guide to the cheapest electric cars on sale now.
