Renault is embracing its retro roots with a stunning new concept car: the Renault R17 Electric Restomod. This spectacular one-off electric vehicle (EV) revives the iconic Renault R17 from the 1970s, giving it a modern twist while preserving its classic appeal. While it’s currently just a concept, the excitement around this EV revival suggests that Renault may be testing the waters for future production.
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Renault R17 Electric Restomod
A Retro Revival: R17 EV’s Classic Meets Modern Approach
In recent months, Renault has been on a roll with its retro-inspired vehicles. Earlier this year, they unveiled the Renault 5 EV, a modern interpretation of their most famous compact car. However, the R17 Electric Restomod takes things to another level, resurrecting the classic R17 coupe, which was first introduced in the mid-1970s.
The original R17, known for its distinctive styling and front-wheel-drive layout, was a popular choice among car enthusiasts in its time. In contrast, the new R17 Electric Restomod flips the script, featuring a rear-engined, rear-wheel-drive setup that dramatically enhances its performance.
Performance and Power: A Significant Upgrade
One of the most striking upgrades in the R17 Electric Restomod is its performance. The original R17 offered a modest peak of 107 horsepower, but the new electric version is equipped with a single motor on the rear axle that produces 270 hp. While Renault hasn’t released specific performance figures, this jump in power easily surpasses the original’s performance, including its 0-60 mph time of 13.2 seconds.
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With a carbon fiber chassis keeping the car’s weight at just 3086 pounds, the R17 EV is light by modern standards, particularly for an electric vehicle. This combination of lightweight design and enhanced power promises a nimble and exhilarating driving experience.
A Glimpse into the Future of Retro Electric Cars
The Renault R17 Electric Restomod is part of a growing trend of automakers breathing new life into classic cars with electric powertrains. This trend was notably spearheaded by Hyundai’s Pony concept in 2021, which drew inspiration from their 1970s model. The success of that concept led Hyundai to explore further with the N74 concept, hinting that other automakers, like Renault, might follow suit.
Renault enthusiasts can hope that the R17 concept may eventually lead to a production model, though it remains uncertain. Hyundai’s pathway from concept to limited production gives a glimpse of what might be possible for Renault fans who are eager to see more of these retro-styled EVs on the road.
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Will the Renault R17 EV Come to the U.S.?
For those in the United States hoping to get their hands on the Renault R17 Electric Restomod, there’s a caveat. Renault has not sold cars in the U.S. since the mid-1980s, and while the company’s performance brand Alpine has plans to re-enter the American market, it’s unclear whether the Renault badge will return anytime soon.
This could leave American fans of the R17 Electric Restomod disappointed if the concept ever reaches production. Still, Renault’s exploration of electric restomods is an exciting development for car enthusiasts worldwide, particularly those who have a soft spot for 1970s automotive design.
Key Features of the Renault R17 Electric Restomod:
- Rear-engined, rear-wheel-drive layout (unlike the original’s front-wheel-drive setup).
- 270-horsepower electric motor, a significant upgrade from the original’s 107 hp.
- Carbon fiber chassis keeping the weight down to 3086 lbs.
- Inspired by Renault’s retro history, similar to the Hyundai Pony EV revival.
- Not confirmed for production yet, but offers hope for future retro EV models.
Final Thoughts
The Renault R17 Electric Restomod is a bold, futuristic take on a classic 1970s model, merging retro aesthetics with cutting-edge electric technology. Though it’s just a concept for now, the buzz surrounding it indicates that retro-inspired EVs could be a significant part of Renault’s future. Fans of classic cars, performance EVs, and innovative design should keep an eye on Renault as they continue to explore this exciting trend.
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Whether it ever makes it to production or not, the R17 Electric Restomod is a spectacular homage to Renault’s heritage and a glimpse of the future of electric vehicles.
