Renault Embraces Retro Design for EVs: Bringing Nostalgia to the Future
Renault is taking a unique approach to its upcoming electric vehicles (EVs) by incorporating retro design elements. Laurens van den Acker, the design chief of Renault Group, believes that reviving classic designs can set their cars apart from their “anonymous” and “cold” competitors.
Van den Acker revealed that Renault CEO Luca de Meo, known for reviving the Fiat 500 during his tenure at the Italian firm, is drawn to the idea of reinventing classic designs. This led to the green light for the retro-styled Renault 4 and Renault 5 EVs, which will soon be available in showrooms.
The design chief explained that there is an unspoken expectation for EVs to have a sleek and anonymous appearance. However, Renault aims to bring more richness and character to their EV lineup. While the Renault 5 and Renault 4 will be fully electric, they will also pay homage to their legendary status as iconic models. On the other hand, the Mégane and future Scenic models will represent a more modern design approach.
Van den Acker emphasized that the decision to tap into Renault’s back catalogue was irresistible for someone like Luca de Meo. The Renault 5 was initially unveiled as a concept earlier this year and is now undergoing late-stage testing before its launch next year. The Renault 4, showcased as a concept at last year’s Paris Motor Show, is set to hit showrooms in 2025.
Both the Renault 5 and Renault 4 are built on the company’s new CMF-BEV architecture specifically designed for small electric cars. Van den Acker recalled that when he joined Renault in 2009, he was asked about the possibility of reviving classic models like Alpine or Renault 4. At the time, he focused on designing for the future rather than dwelling on the past. However, he now sees the value in creating cars that evoke positive emotions and nostalgia during uncertain times.
The Renault 5 and Renault 4 hold a special place in the hearts of many people. Van den Acker has encountered numerous individuals who fondly remember these models as their first cars or as vehicles they learned to drive in. He believes that reviving these good memories can have a significant impact. These retro-inspired cars bring joy and positivity, which is a rare quality in today’s automotive market. Van den Acker sees this as an opportunity to give people what they want and create feel-good products.
One of the main reasons why the Renault 4 and Renault 5 were not revived earlier is due to the limitations of combustion engines. Van den Acker hinted that faithfully recreating these models would not have been possible with traditional engines. The transition to EVs opens up exciting possibilities for design, allowing Renault to stay true to the original aesthetics of these iconic cars.
Renault’s embrace of retro design for its EV lineup is a bold move that sets them apart from their competitors. By tapping into nostalgia and evoking positive emotions, Renault aims to create a unique and memorable driving experience. With the Renault 5 and Renault 4 leading the way, the future of Renault’s EV lineup looks promising. These electric vehicles will not only be environmentally friendly but also pay tribute to the brand’s rich heritage. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Renault is proving that there is room for both innovation and nostalgia on the road.