Renault 5 Prototype previews retro‑futuristic EV

So what is it? Well, they’re not beating about the bush. It’s literally called the ‘Renault 5 Prototype’ and it previews a new small electric car in the marque’s range. It’s part of Renault’s plans to add seven new electrified models to its range and have 30 per cent of its sales be electric by 2025.

Design-wise, the 5 Prototype is an homage to all things original Renault 5, from the very basic supermini, to the full-fat R5 Turbo mid-engined monster, albeit fully reinterpreted for the modern era. Just look at those arches. That’s pure hot hatch theatre. It wouldn’t be a Renault 5 if not for that angled rump, either. Overall it looks like one of those cool renderings you’d find scrolling on Instagram, entirely not the product of the marque and entirely beyond the realms of possibility. The difference is this really is Renault and it really is happening... 

“The design of the Renault 5 Prototype is based on the R5, a cult model of our heritage,” said Gilles Vidal, Renault Design Director.

“This prototype simply embodies modernity, a vehicle relevant to its time: urban, electric, attractive.”

When you consider that new boss Luca de Meo was responsible for the rebirth of the Fiat 500, the rebirth of the Renault 5 and the appeal to old icons is an obvious slam dunk. Couple that with the recent furore around the likes of Honda’s own retro-influenced small car, the Honda e, and you realise the announcement of this car should really come as no surprise.

Renault’s current Zoe EV is one of the most competitive cars in its segment in terms of range and price, so expect the 5 to carry that legacy on. Will it replace the Zoe? We’re unsure. There is a similarity in dimensions... When will we be able to get our hands on the new Renault 5? We’ve no idea. Renault hasn’t suggested when it’ll go on sale. Let the four-year countdown begin. For now, we’re just glad for an EV that genuinely tugs at our emotions.