Cars

Renault gives the Super-Cinq an EV reboot

Renault 5
Renault 5 Renault 5

THE societal, commercial and environmental trends reshaping the car industry have led Renault to come up with a plan for its future, writes William Scholes.

With the naff sounding name of 'Renaulution' (maybe it works in French?), the company says it will evolve into a tech, service and clean energy brand; churning out cars is no longer sufficient for a 21st century motor-maker.

This need not be as dull as it sounds, at least if it leads to more cars like this. It's a high-tech electric car wrapped in unashamedly retro packaging, in the style of the Mini and Fiat 500, and recalls the Renault 5 supermini which readers of a certain age will remember.

Renault 5
Renault 5 Renault 5

They've even called it the 'Renault 5 Prototype', in case you were left in any doubt about the connection they're attempting to make.

"The soul of the Renault brand is firmly in its roots," as the company says.

"The Renault 5 prototype looks to reconnect with this past and draw inspiration to find the spirit of those glorious times without merely replicating it.

Renault 5
Renault 5 Renault 5

"Instead, it demonstrates how Renault will democratise the electric car in Europe with a modern approach influenced by one of the most popular and essential cars of its era."

And, if things go to plan, we can expect to see a production version in a couple of years.

Renault 5
Renault 5 Renault 5