2025 Renault 5 E-Tech electric Revealed

Exciting, iconic, and forward-thinking, the Renault 5 makes a triumphant return, reimagined to inject some excitement into the realm of compact electric vehicles.

The original Renault 5 was a global success, selling over 5.5 million units across five continents between 1972 and 1985. Pioneering in its nature, it set records as the first car to achieve fuel consumption below 5 litres/62 miles at 55mph, and it even offered an electric version as early as 1974. Ahead of its time, it introduced eco-design elements like a roof crafted from bonded natural fibres, spacious interiors, and innovative style.

Remaining true to the 2021 concept car, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric pays homage to this illustrious history while embracing modernity. It continues the legacy of its predecessor’s beloved design while incorporating contemporary features such as the all-electric AmpR small car platform, nimble handling, and cutting-edge technology. This includes Reno, the avatar companion ready to accompany you on every journey, and a distinctive charging indicator on the bonnet.

The Renault 5 E-Tech electric is set to launch in the UK in the first quarter of 2025, with details regarding specifications and pricing to follow. Enthusiasts eager to be among the first to experience it can secure their spot by purchasing an R-Pass for £150, granting them early access to place their order 10 days ahead of the general public.

An Unparalleled and Evocative Design

The Renault 5 signifies more than just its debut in 1972. The Renault 5 E-Tech electric blends nostalgic design elements from three iconic models: the Renault 5 and Supercinq for their overall aesthetics, and the Renault 5 Turbo for its assertive stance and wing extenders, firmly planted on the tarmac.

Distinctive within the Renault lineup, the lighting signature boasts two rounded-corner rectangles positioned on the front bumper, reminiscent of the fog lamps on the Renault 5 Turbo. A floating design with a similar rectangular motif is intricately incorporated into the glass of the full LED headlights.

Although the wheel arches retain their circular form, the structure of the wings pays homage to the characteristic shape of the arches on the original Renault 5. The vibrant roof trim (available in black, red, or gold), the rich red hue of the vertical rear lights, and the vivid bodywork colours all evoke the spirit of the original Renault 5, illuminating the urban landscape with its distinctive charm.

Contemporary Dimensions

Over 50 years, vehicle proportions have undergone significant changes. Leading the charge, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric embodies modernity in every aspect, boasting sizable 18-inch wheels at each corner and minimal overhangs in a compact body measuring under 4 meters (3.92m). The wheels align seamlessly with the body, flaunting broad tracks of 1.55m at the front and 1.53m at the rear.

All these design elements were featured on the 2021 concept car, crafted without compromise. Leveraging cutting-edge engineering expertise, these proportions have been faithfully retained in the production model.

Deceptively Compact

Despite its visually appealing proportions, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric remains akin in size to a small, agile city car. Measuring at 3.92m in length, it stands just 9cm shorter than the Clio. The optimised wheelbase of 2.54m ensures ample interior space, with remarkably short overhangs trailing just 4cm behind the Clio. With a width of 1.77m, it commands road presence without sacrificing agility on city streets. Its stature, standing at 1.50m tall, is merely 6cm taller than the Clio, perfectly suited to accommodate its underfloor battery.

18-Inch Wheels for All

The standard 18-inch wheels are a defining feature of the ideal proportions of the Renault 5 E-Tech electric. Fitted with 195/55 R18 tyres, these wheels sport alloy rims across the lineup. The ‘Techno’ wheel, mirroring the design of the 2021 concept car, distinguishes itself by replacing its central diamond with a striking red ‘5’.

Meanwhile, the ‘Chrono’ wheel, found on the top-tier Iconic Five trim level, mimics the appearance of a watch face, with each hour represented by a hand, solely featuring the number 5 when the central logo is oriented vertically – a subtle homage to the model’s moniker.

Vibrant Iconic Colour Palette

Upon its launch, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric will dazzle in five distinct body colours, two of which are truly iconic: Pop Yellow and Pop Green. These hues draw direct inspiration from two emblematic shades featured in the 1970s catalogue, forever synonymous with the Renault 5.

Enhanced by an intense sparkle effect, these colours imbue a high-tech dimension into the pop art aesthetic. The sparkle effect manifests intricately under close scrutiny in the light, yet from a distance, it exudes a solid appearance.

Furthermore, complementing these iconic shades are Artic White, Diamond Black, and Midnight Blue. Plus, certain trim levels will offer a two-tone paint option featuring a Diamond Black roof.

A Revamped Vent Grille

Evolved to suit contemporary standards, the vent grille on the bonnet undergoes a transformation. Now serving as a charge indicator, it takes the form of the iconic number 5. As the driver approaches, it illuminates, symbolising the harmonious interaction between human and machine. Further enhancing this humanised interface is the welcoming sequence of the eye-shaped LED headlights, playfully ‘winking’ at the approaching driver.

While absent in the original Renault 5, modern aerodynamic features are discreetly integrated for optimal efficiency, such as the streamlined glass overlaying the rear lights to refine airflow.

Two-Tier Padded Dashboard

Inside the Renault 5 E-Tech electric, the dashboard seamlessly amalgamates standout features from various generations of the Renault 5. Notably, the two-tier layout facing the passenger, the padded transverse configuration, and the rounded-edge rectangular instrument cluster.

On the high-spec Iconic Five trim level, the “Renault 5” signature graces the black horizontal trim above the padded area, exuding an aura of luxury and cutting-edge design with its elegant backlighting.

Aesthetic Detail in Air Vent Design

Demonstrating meticulous attention to detail, the design of the air vents diverges from the conventional transversal layout, drawing inspiration from the light signature found on the car’s front end.

Iconic Seating and Upholstery

Drawing inspiration from the iconic R5 Turbo, the seats of the Renault 5 E-Tech electric boast a strikingly modern design, featuring the distinctive H-shaped motif. This design element serves as a nod to Renault’s pioneering innovation in seating during the 1970s and 80s.

The denim upholstery, robust yet inviting, adds a stylish flair to the playful character of the Renault 5 E-Tech electric. Crafted from 100% recycled plastic (PET) water bottles, this denim fabric adorns the seats, dashboard, and door panels in the Techno version, embodying sustainability with a touch of sophistication.

As a symbol of daring design and prestigious flair, the Iconic Five trim level showcases a vibrant colour palette for a vintage-inspired finish. The seats are upholstered in grey fabric, accentuated by the H-shaped motif in heather yellow, and adorned with a large printed ‘5’ also in yellow. This upholstery, crafted from 100% recycled fabric, exemplifies eco-conscious luxury.

Expansive Horizontal Screen

Injecting a contemporary, high-tech aesthetic into the interior, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric features a dual horizontal screen layout. Dominating the driver’s view is a 10-inch digital instrument panel, offering comprehensive driving information with a selection of five different views.

Complementing this is the central multimedia screen, also measuring 10 inches, powered by the OpenR Link system with integrated Google functionality for the Techno and Iconic Five trim levels.

Multi-Purpose City Car Capability

Despite its compact length of just 3.92m, positioning it between the Clio II and Clio III, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric rivals the interior space of the Clio V, courtesy of its AmpR Small platform and 2.54m wheelbase. Notably, it offers a generous interior width of 1.38m at the front and 1.36m at the rear with the three-seater bench.

With the battery situated under the floor, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric provides a capacious boot capacity of 326 litres, placing it at the forefront of the electric city car segment and surpassing several larger traditional ICE-powered city cars. The boot, easily accessible with its elevated floor, can be further utilised and organised with the 60-40 split/fold three-seater rear bench.

Additional storage space of 19 litres is ingeniously integrated throughout the cabin, offering versatility for personalisation with 3D-printed accessories, including a whimsical baguette holder.

Cutting-Edge Electric Platform, a European-Exclusive

The Renault 5 E-Tech electric pioneers the utilisation of the AmpR Small, an innovative all-electric platform that stands as a European first. Tailored to showcase its iconic design without compromising on performance, this platform is engineered to enhance electric vehicles’ efficiency while mainstreaming their adoption.

By leveraging shared components with the CMF-B platform, such as the front suspension, costs are reduced without compromising electric performance. Simultaneously, the platform prioritises the development of electric drive system-specific aspects, notably motor and battery integration. These electrical components will be used in forthcoming B-segment electric models designed by Ampere for the Renault brand and its partners.

Unified Brake System

Introducing the innovative One Box system, which consolidates braking and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) functions into a single module, effectively reducing the space needed under the bonnet. This integration also slashes the response time of the automatic emergency braking system by half.

Additionally, the decoupled braking system ensures a consistently robust pedal feel, fostering a heightened sense of connection between the driver, the vehicle, and the road. The transition between regenerative braking and hydraulic braking occurs seamlessly, facilitated by an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) connected to the brake pedal, prioritising energy recovery before engaging the braking system when necessary. Furthermore, drivers have the option to engage a B mode via the gear lever, enhancing regeneration.

Enhanced Acoustic and Thermal Comfort

Elevating acoustic comfort to premium levels, the soundproofing system adheres to the same high standards as recent electric models in the Renault lineup. Beginning with the implementation of the smart cocoon, a patented absorbent material that isolates the battery from the passenger compartment, the system sets a new benchmark. The motor suspension incorporates a dual filtration mechanism that leverages the weight of the charger to absorb acoustic vibrations from the motor, resulting in a remarkable 10 dB reduction in interior noise. Additionally, all versions come equipped with an acoustic windscreen as standard.

Moreover, a heat pump ensures optimal thermal comfort within the passenger compartment, collaborating with the 8 kW HVCH (High Voltage Coolant Heater) system to conserve battery energy efficiently. This feature swiftly warms the cabin to a comfortable temperature upon start-up during cold conditions. For pre-warming and defrosting purposes, both the cabin and battery can be preconditioned either through scheduled programming or remotely activated via the My Renault app.

Exceptional Passive Safety

The Renault 5 E-Tech electric prioritises passive safety to deliver a level on par with higher-tier market standards. Preserving the compact design’s short overhangs while enhancing structural resilience in case of impact demanded extensive computational and simulation efforts, particularly for the motor cradle.

Simultaneously, the car’s compact dimensions needed specific development on the central structure of the cradle housing the battery. The all-electric design of the AmpR Small platform offers an advantage, as seat crossmembers are tailored to safeguard the battery without requiring additional reinforcements within the body, thus maximising space for the cells without extra components. Advanced battery safety technologies, such as Fireman Access and Pyroswitch, are also integrated into the vehicle.

Diverse Motor, Battery, and Charging Options

Catering to urban and long-distance journeys alike, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric presents a range of motor, battery, and charging options tailored to suit various driving needs. With power outputs reaching up to 110 kW / 148 bhp and a WLTP range of up to 248 miles, coupled with DC charging capabilities of up to 100 kW, it embodies the qualities of larger vehicles while retaining its nimbleness and agility. A rarity in the electric city car segment, it even boasts a towing capacity of 500kg, making it versatile for towing trailers.

Dual Battery Options

The Renault 5 E-Tech electric offers two lithium-ion battery choices. Initially, only the larger variant will be available upon market release, boasting a 52 kWh capacity and a range of up to 248 miles WLTP. Alternatively, the second option offers a 40 kWh capacity for a range of up to 186 miles WLTP. Both utilise NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) technology, delivering optimal energy density currently available in the market.

These battery modules are engineered to enhance energy density without increasing size. The 52 kWh battery comprises four large modules within its casing, a departure from the 12 smaller modules found in the Megane E-Tech electric and Zoe, resulting in a weight reduction of 20kg compared to the Zoe. Each of the four modules houses a total of 46 cells, weighing approximately 55kg.

In contrast, the 40 kWh battery integrates just three large modules within the same casing. These three modules accommodate 31 cells of increased thickness, with a weight of approximately 240kg each.

To ensure consistent performance across various conditions, the battery is equipped with a liquid cooling system to regulate temperature. For enhanced safety, the cooling fluid circulates outside the casing through the extruded floor. Optimising charging time is facilitated by pre-conditioning the battery and planning the journey using Google Maps.

The Reno Avatar: A New Travel Companion

Introducing Reno, the virtual travel companion exclusive to the Renault 5 E-Tech electric. As the pioneer vehicle featuring Reno, this avatar possesses a genuine personality, offering invaluable support and interaction to Renault customers throughout their entire user journey, both within and outside the car. The empathetic connection established with Reno serves to strengthen the emotional bond between users and their Renault 5 E-Tech electric.

An exemplary integration of technology for tangible benefits, Reno assists users in familiarising themselves with the car and its functionalities. Specialising in electric vehicles, Reno adeptly addresses various queries and executes practical tasks. For instance, users can ask Reno to schedule a charge for 8 am the following day or seek advice on enhancing the car’s range.

Beyond electric functions, Reno is equipped to answer the top 200 questions frequently posed by customers, as identified by Renault After-Sales. Queries such as how to connect a phone to the car or how to change a tyre are effortlessly handled by Reno.

Furthermore, Reno demonstrates anticipatory capabilities by providing suggestions to adjust vehicle settings based on the context. For instance, recommending window closure for improved air recirculation and air purifier control, activating air conditioning in recirculation mode upon detecting increased pollution, or transitioning from Sport to Eco mode during traffic congestion.

Moreover, with the integration of the artificial intelligence app Chat GPT, Reno offers seamless, conversational responses to a myriad of questions.

Beyond the confines of the car, Reno extends its utility to the My Renault smartphone app. A collection of video tutorials curated by Reno facilitates users’ exploration of the car’s diverse capabilities. As Renault’s ambassador for the Renault 5 E-Tech electric, Reno continues to foster the connection between customers and the brand through engaging activities such as quizzes, ensuring an enjoyable and informative experience.

All-New Renault 5 for 2025

In conclusion, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric emerges as a groundbreaking innovation that transcends the boundaries of traditional automotive design. With its cutting-edge technology, exceptional safety features, and innovative virtual companion Reno, Renault has redefined the electric vehicle experience. From its iconic design to its eco-friendly performance, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric represents a bold step forward in the evolution of electric mobility.

As it takes to the roads, it not only offers a sustainable transportation solution but also fosters a deeper connection between drivers and their vehicles. With Reno by their side, users embark on a journey filled with excitement, convenience, and unparalleled support. The Renault 5 E-Tech electric is more than just a car; it’s a testament to Renault’s commitment to shaping the future of driving.