French automaker Renault revealed the 5 Prototype alongside plans to launch 14 new models by 2025, from which seven will be electric vehicles. Renault’s “Renaulution” strategy involves 30% of its sales to comprise EVs by 2025, including the new 5 Prototype.
The new 5 is a cute, pin-sized, all-electric vehicle inspired by the cult hatchback models from Renault’s past – the first-gen R5 of the 1970s and early 80s (sold as ‘Le Car’ in the US) and the second-gen R5 (market as Supercinq or ‘Superfive’) model that was produced from 1984 to 1996.
Gilles Vidal, the design director at Renault, said:
The design of the Renault 5 prototype is based on the R5, a cult model of our heritage. This prototype simply embodies modernity, a vehicle relevant to its time: urban, electric, attractive.
Many elements taken from the original design are cleverly hidden, including:
- The bonnet air intake hides the charging hatch
- The fog lamps in the bumper double as daytime running lights
- The rear lights include aero flaps
The R5 sports modern lines, flush surfaces, and futuristic detail – resulting in a vehicle that’s undoubtedly in the current times’ spirit. There is also a subtle nod to the original ‘5’ on the wheels, the rear logo, and the side grid. Its front face and textile roof are full of ‘French charm,’ with a hint of mischief and character that’s hard not to love.
