FUN, ICONIC, INNOVATIVE AND in tune with modern times, the Renault 5 is back, reinvented to bring some sparkle to the world of compact electric vehicles.
The original Renault 5 sold over 5.5 million units across five continents from 1972 to 1985. Always ahead of its time, it was the first car to achieve fuel consumption below the symbolic 5L/100km at 90km/h, and was even available in an electric version as far back as 1974. It was visionary to the end, marking the beginnings of eco-design with a roof made from bonded natural fibres, unrivalled interior space and innovative style.
The Renault 5 E-Tech electric, faithful to the 2021 concept car, harks back to this glorious past while building on the enduring love-affair it shared with many. Yet it is also the epitome of modernity, from its all-electric AmpR small car platform through to its agile handling and cool, new technology. That includes Reno, the avatar who is ready to partner you on every journey, and a unique charging indicator on the bonnet.
A unique and emotive design
In the collective memory, Renault 5 is not just the original model launched in 1972. Renault 5 E-Tech electric fuses evocative design cues from three models: Renault 5 and Supercinq for their overall look, and Renault 5 Turbo for its wing extenders and attitude, sitting squarely on the road.
Unique in the Renault range, the light signature features two rectangles with rounded corners positioned in the front bumper, in the same place as the fog lamps on the Renault 5 Turbo. A floating design with the same rectangular effect is etched into the glass of the full LED headlamps.
While the wheel arches are circular, the structure of the wings echoes the characteristic shape of the arches on the original Renault 5. The colourful roof trim (in black, red or gold), the deep red of the vertical rear lights and the vibrant colours of the bodywork also bring to mind the original Renault 5 and its ability to make the city look brighter.
Modern proportions
Over 50 years, vehicle proportions have changed considerably. Setting the tone, Renault 5 E-Tech electric is modern in every way, with large 18-inch wheels at each corner, and minimal overhangs in a car less than 4m long (3.92m). The wheels are flush with the body, with wide tracks (1.55m at the front and 1.53m at the rear).
All these features appeared on the 2021 show car, which was designed without compromise. Drawing upon the latest prowess in engineering, these proportions have been maintained in the production model.
More compact than it looks
A vehicle of attractive proportions, Renault 5 E-Tech electric is nevertheless the same size as a small, nimble city car. At 3.92m long, it is just 9cm shorter than Clio. The optimised wheelbase (2.54m) – a promise of generous interior space – with very short overhangs is just 4cm shorter than on Clio. The width of 1.77m adds to the car’s on-road presence without compromising its agility on city roads. Ideally sized with its underfloor battery, it stands 1.50m tall, just 6cm higher than Clio.
18-inch wheels for everyone
The standard 18-inch wheels are a key feature in the ideal proportions of Renault 5 E-Tech electric. The 195/55 R18 tyres come with alloy wheels across the range. The ‘Techno’ wheel features the same design as the 2021 show car, and is the only one to swap its central diamond for a red ‘5’. The ‘Chrono’ wheel on the top-of-the-range Iconic Five trim level resembles a watch face with a hand for each hour, but showing only the number 5, a nod to the name of the model, when the central logo is vertical.
Bright iconic colours
Renault 5 E-Tech electric will be available from launch in five body colours, two of which are absolutely iconic: Pop Yellow and Pop Green. They are directly inspired by two emblematic shades that were present in the 1970s catalogue and that are forever associated with the Renault 5. An intense sparkle-effect adds a high-tech note to the pop art look. The effect is only visible when you look closely at the paintwork in the light. From a distance, the paintwork looks solid. The three other shades are: Artic White, Diamond Black and Midnight Blue. The two-tone paintwork with the Diamond Black roof will also be available on some trim levels.
A reinvented vent grille
The vent grille on the bonnet of the original car has been reinvented to keep up with the times. Today, it is a charge indicator in the form of the iconic number 5. When the driver approaches the vehicle, it lights up, illustrating the close interaction between human and machine. Another example of a humanised interface is the welcome sequence of the eye-shaped LED headlights, which ‘wink’ at the driver as they approach. Absent from the original Renault 5 but vital today for optimal efficiency are the aerodynamic features. Today, they are present but invisible, like the streamlined glass placed over the rear lights to optimise the airflow.
A two-tier padded dashboard
Inside Renault 5 E-Tech electric, the dashboard stylishly combines the most outstanding features of several generations of Renault 5: for example, the two-tier structure facing the passenger, the padded transverse layout, and the rectangular instrument cluster with rounded edges. On the Iconic Five high-spec trim level, the “Renault 5” signature can be seen on the black horizontal trim facing the passenger above the “padded” area, which with its elegant backlighting adds an extra touch of luxury and high-tech design.
The same attention to aesthetic detail can be seen in the design of the air vents. Breaking from the usual standardised, transversal design, they borrow the design of the light signature on the front end of the car.
Iconic seats and upholstery
The strikingly modern design of the seats is inspired by the iconic R5 Turbo, with its H-shaped feature, a reminder that Renault was extremely innovative in this area in the 70s and 80s.
Robust, original and welcoming, the denim upholstery makes a stylish contribution to the fun nature of Renault 5 E-Tech electric. Made from 100% recycled plastic (PET) water bottles, this denim fabric is used on the seats, dashboard and door panels on the Techno version.
A symbol of bold design and a prestige signature, the Iconic Five blazes with colour for a high-spec vintage finish. The seats are upholstered in grey fabric, with the H in heather yellow, and a large printed ‘5’, also in yellow. This upholstery is made from 100% recycled fabric.
Large horizontal screen
A dual horizontal screen gives a contemporary, high-tech, fun look to the interior of Renault 5 E-Tech. Facing the driver is a 10-inch digital instrument panel displaying driving information in full, with a choice of five different views. The central multimedia screen is also 10-inch. It is powered by the OpenR Link system with Google built-in for the Techno and Iconic Five trim levels.
The capacity of a true multi-purpose city car
Although Renault 5 E-Tech electric is just 3.92m long, positioned between Clio II and Clio III, it rivals Clio V for interior space, thanks to its AmpR Small platform and 2.54m wheelbase. For interior width in particular, it provides 1.38m at the front and 1.36m at the rear with the three-seater bench.
The battery is placed under the floor to provide generous boot capacity of 326 litres (277 dm3 VDA). This places the car at the top end of the electric city car segment, and even ahead of several bigger traditional ICE-powered city cars. Easy to access with its high floor, the boot can also be divided using the 60-40 split/fold three-seater rear bench.
A further 19 litres of storage capacity is provided by various compartments around the cabin. This space can be configured and customised using 3D-printed accessories, including a tongue-in-cheek baguette holder.
A new-generation electric platform, unique in Europe
Renault 5 E-Tech electric is the first car to be built on AmpR Small, the new all-electric platform developed to showcase its iconic design, with no trade-off in performance. Developed both to optimise electric vehicles and to bring them into the mainstream, it cuts costs by sharing a number of parts with the CMF-B platform that have no impact on electric performance such as the front suspension. At the same time, it takes a no-compromise approach to the development of all the aspects specific to the electric drive system, particularly motor and battery integration. All the electrical components developed for this vehicle will be shared with future B-segment electric models designed by Ampere for the Renault brand and its partners.
Focus on driving pleasure
The new AmpR Small platform is calibrated to enable Renault 5 E-Tech electric to deliver a level of performance and driving sensations on a par with its dynamic design. Setting a new standard in its segment, it further optimises the front suspension with a steering system that has a very short gear ratio (13.7) for unrivalled agility. With a turning circle of just 10.3m, it makes light work of manoeuvres in the city. Particular emphasis was placed on damping, in order to absorb the increased weight of the battery.
The rear suspension features multi-link geometry, formerly reserved for vehicles further up the market. Its advantages include more dynamic performance on tight corners and greater stability on wider corners, as well as improved comfort by cutting percussion noise. In the case of Renault 5 E-Tech electric, the advantages are not limited solely to the performance of the running gear. The geometry of the platform also allows the integration of a larger battery (52kWh), for a range of up to 400km WLTP despite the vehicle’s compact dimensions.
One Box brake system
The new One Box system groups the braking and ESP functions in the same module to reduce the space required under the bonnet. It also halves the response time of the automatic emergency braking system. At the same time, the decoupled braking system delivers a consistently strong pedal feel, contributing to a better sense of connection with the car and the road for the driver, with the switch between regenerative braking and hydraulic braking taking place transparently. The brake pedal is not connected to the callipers, but to an ECU that prioritises energy recovery before switching to the braking system if necessary. The driver can also use the gear lever to select a B mode with increased regeneration.
Premium acoustic and thermal comfort
For premium acoustic comfort, the soundproofing is based on the same top-of-the-range standards as recent electric models in the Renault range. This starts with the smart cocoon, a patented new-generation absorbent material that insulates the battery from the passenger compartment. The motor suspension features a dual filtration system that uses the weight of the charger to soak up acoustic vibrations from the motor (a gain of 10 dB), contributing to the interior silence. Finally, an acoustic windscreen is standard on all versions.
Further, a heat pump maintains thermal comfort in the passenger compartment, working with the 8 kW HVCH (High Voltage Coolant Heater) system, to save as much energy as possible from the battery. This feature quickly brings the cabin up to a comfortable temperature after start-up when the vehicle is cold. To pre-warm and defrost the vehicle before start-up, the cabin and battery can be preconditioned, either by programming the system or by switching it on remotely from the My Renault app.
Outstanding passive safety
Renault 5 E-Tech electric delivers a high level of passive safety, on a par with the standards applicable further up the market. Maintaining the very short overhangs of the design while maximising structural resistance in the event of impact required extensive computing and simulation, particularly for the motor cradle. At the same time, the compact dimensions of the car required specific development work on the central structure of the cradle housing the battery. The advantage of the all-electric design of the AmpR Small platform is that the seat crossmembers have been specially designed to protect the battery without the need for reinforcements inside the body, freeing up maximum space for the cells without additional parts. At the same time, the vehicle includes advanced battery safety technologies (Fireman Access and Pyroswitch).
A range of motor, battery and charging options
Designed for the city and beyond, Renault 5 E-Tech electric offers a choice of motors and batteries, reflecting the intended use of the car. With a power output of up to 110 kW, a range of up to 400km WLTP and DC charging up to 100 kW, it has all the qualities of a larger car, whilst maintaining its lightness and agility. A rarity in the electric city car segment, it can even tow a trailer, with a towing capacity of 500kg.
Two battery options
Renault 5 E-Tech electric will be available with two lithium-ion batteries. The biggest, which will be the only one available at market launch, has a capacity of 52kWh and a range of up to 400km WLTP. The second has a capacity of 40kWh for a range of up to 300km WLTP. Both use NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) technology, for the best energy density on the market today.
These battery modules are designed to improve energy density without increasing size. The 52kWh battery includes four large modules in its casing, compared with the 12 smaller modules found on Megane E-Tech electric and Zoe. This simplified architecture brings weight savings of 20kg compared with Zoe. A total of 46 cells are assembled in each of the four modules, each weighing around 55kg.
The 40kWh battery has just three large modules in the same casing. Each of these three modules includes 31 cells of increased thickness, weighing in at around 240kg.
For improved performance in all conditions, the battery is equipped with a liquid cooling system to regulate its temperature. For greater safety, the cooling fluid does not circulate inside the casing but through the extruded floor. Finally, when charging the vehicle, charging time can be optimised by pre-conditioning the battery and planning the journey using Google Maps.
Two motor power ratings
The electric motor of Renault 5 E-Tech electric uses Renault’s preferred technology: wound rotor synchronous. As it has no permanent magnets, it uses no rare earths, thereby reducing its environmental impact. The magnets are replaced by copper coils, with the wires being ordered and routed in such a way as to withstand the centrifugal force of the rotor.
Based directly on the motor of Megane E-Tech electric and Scenic E-Tech electric, Renault 5 E-Tech electric also benefits from the experience acquired with other electric motors, such as on Zoe, in terms of durability. It also gains several new features, including new-generation power electronics (inverter) and reworked reduction gear. The difference can be seen in size and weight. The motor is 15kg lighter with a rotor that has been made 3cm shorter to fit under the bonnet of Renault 5 E-Tech electric.
The AC/DC converter, transforming the 400V from the battery to 12V, and the accessory box managing power distribution, have been integrated into the charger in order to save space. The new powertrain weighs just 105kg, including the charger.
The motor is available with two power ratings: 110kW (245Nm) or 90kW (225Nm). The 110kW motor is paired with the 52kWh battery, while the 90kW motor is paired with the 40kWh battery. The first motor will be available at launch, with the other will follow at a later date.
For the 110kW version, Renault 5 E-Tech electric accelerates from zero to 100km/h in under 8 seconds.
11kW AC bidirectional charging
Renault 5 E-Tech electric will be the first in a long series of cars to be fitted with the new 11kW AC bidirectional charger featuring V2L (vehicle-to-load) for connecting a device to the vehicle battery and V2G (vehicle-to-grid) for feeding electricity back into the grid and saving on home charging.
This 11kW AC bidirectional charger will be operational on both the 110kW and 90kW versions. The 11kW charger fitted on all versions makes Renault 5 E-Tech electric even more versatile, ready to take to the road in any UK city.
With an 11 kW AC charging point, the 52kWh battery will take 4hrs 30 minutes to charge from 10 percent to 100 percent. The 40kWh battery will take an hour less.
DC charging up to 100kW
For DC fast charging, the 110kW powertrain has a 100kW DC socket to charge the 52kWh battery. The 90kW powertrain is equipped with an 80kW DC socket to charge the 40kWh battery. In both cases, it will take just 30 minutes to charge the battery from 15 percent to 80 percent.
Technologies with human-added value
On board Renault 5 E-Tech electric, the technology is designed to be useful, convenient, and to contribute to a unique customer experience. From the innovative charging experience to the range of connected services, all the innovations available reflect the DNA of Renault’s “voitures à vivre”. Further, the Reno avatar gives them a physical representation to focus on for the first time while giving voice commands, creating an even closer bond between the user and their car.
A full range of services to take advantage of V2G and V2L
With the V2G (vehicle-to-grid) technology available on new Renault 5 E-Tech electric with the 11 kW AC bidirectional charger, users can benefit from low-carbon electricity that can be fed back into the power grid in order to meet demand. Naturally, Renault 5 E-Tech electric can also be charged from a conventional charging point, at home or on the street.
With the V2L (vehicle-to-load) technology built into Renault 5 E-Tech electric’s bidirectional charger, users can connect a 220V appliance, such as a vacuum cleaner, kettle or electric barbecue to the car’s battery, via an optional adapter. The power output of this function is 3700 watts.
Advanced connected services with OpenR Link and Google
The award winning OpenR Link multimedia system with Google built-in has proved hugely popular since its launch on Megane E-Tech electric. Today, it is taking centre stage on the screens of Renault 5 E-Tech electric, providing access to Google Maps, Google Assistant and a host of apps (50 or more depending on the country and version) via the Google Play catalogue.
With a chip as powerful as that of a premium smartphone, the OpenR Link system runs more smoothly than other systems. Simple and intuitive, it can be used either by touch or by voice control with the built-in voice assistant. It is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wired and wireless too.
In this version, developed for Renault 5 E-Tech electric, the range of connected services provided by OpenR Link has been expanded to include V2G (vehicle-to-grid), V2L (vehicle-to-load) and Plug & Charge functions (depending on compatibility of charging points compatibility).
Easy planning of charges on the road
The main advantage of OpenR Link with Google built-in is the electric vehicle capabilities in Google Maps. It provides an estimated battery level upon arrival at the destination, suggests charging stops along the way, and calculates how long charging might take.
Drivers can also choose charging points based on the power ratings and payment method. When a driver selects a charging station, Google Maps will automatically factor in battery preconditioning for optimised charging and route planning.
Apps for everyone
Through Google Play, Renault 5 E-Tech electric includes a range of over 50 apps, some of which are specifically for Renault brand vehicles as part of targeted partnerships. You can listen to music, learn about the history of the surrounding area or local tourist attractions, catch up on sport and news, have fun or watch a film when the vehicle is at a standstill or charging. Spotify, Amazon Music, Waze, SongPop for Renault, Vivaldi, Deezer and a wide range of other exclusive content enhance the onboard experience.
The Reno avatar, a new travelling companion
Renault 5 E-Tech electric is the first vehicle to feature Reno, a new virtual travelling companion. An avatar with a real personality, Reno supports and interacts with Renault customers throughout their user experience, both inside and outside the car. The feeling of empathy created will strengthen the emotional bond between the user and their Renault 5 E-Tech electric.
An example of technology being used to provide real benefit, Reno supports users in learning about the car and its functions. It is an EV specialist, able to answer all sorts of questions and take practical action. For example, you could ask: “Hey Reno, schedule a charge for 8am tomorrow” or “Hey Reno, how can I increase the range of my car?”.
Looking beyond electric functions, the Reno avatar can answer the 200 questions most frequently asked by customers.
Reno can also anticipate users’ needs with suggestions to adjust certain vehicle settings to the context such as closing the windows for better air recirculation and to control the air purifier, setting the air conditioning in recirculation mode if it detects an increase in pollution, or switching from Sport to Eco mode in a traffic jam.
Last, with the integration of the artificial intelligence app Chat GPT, Reno can also answer many other questions in a smooth, conversational way.
Outside the car, Reno will also be available on the My Renault smartphone app. A series of video tutorials will help users learn more about all the possibilities of the car. Continuing to nurture the bond between customer and brand, Reno will act as an ambassador for Renault 5 E-Tech electric in a fun way (quizzes, etc.).
Driving aids worthy of segments further up the market
Renault 5 E-Tech electric features a range of driver assistance systems (ADAS), on a par with the best in the next segment up, in terms of driving, safety and parking. Alongside the driver attention monitoring system, it has four safety ADAS features seen on Scenic E-Tech electric, but not present in the B segment before now, and which go beyond the requirements of the new GSR II (General Safety Regulation II): automatic emergency braking in reverse, front sensors with emergency lane keeping, rear sensors with emergency lane keeping and rear occupant safe passenger exit.
A new button – My Safety Shield – located to the left of the steering wheel lets the driver activate or deactivate their preferred settings for no fewer than five ADAS features at the same time, at the touch of a button. The customised settings made on the multimedia screen include whether to activate the function, to what level, to allow sound alerts, and so on.
On the road, Active Driver Assist lets the driver take a more relaxed approach to busy weekend traffic. It is a Level 2 ADAS, combining intelligent adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go and lane centring assist. For this last function, the driver can voluntarily shift towards the side of the road when traffic is moving at a speed of under 50km/h, in order to leave space for motorbikes and scooters or to create a safety corridor for emergency vehicles.
To improve the safety of the vehicle and its occupants after an initial impact, the post-accident automatic braking system automatically locks the vehicle’s brakes in the event of a collision. This is to lessen the consequences of any secondary collisions and potential further impact.
Finally, Renault 5 E-Tech electric has hands-free parking, rounding off a range of features designed to make life easier in all circumstances.
Safety Coach: personalised advice for more responsible driving
To provide support for drivers and reduce the risk of accidents, Renault 5 E-Tech electric is equipped with a safety tool called “Safety Coach”. This tool objectively assesses the driver’s behaviour and provides personalised advice for driving and use of the ADAS, to suggest possible improvements.
An open-ended range with original accessories
Alongside the Evolution and Techno trim levels, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric range will include a high-end version which works on the same principle as haute couture ‘collections’. This trim will change every year. For the launch, it will be Iconic Five. The vehicle will feature a range of unique personalised accessories, including 3D-printed storage spaces, taking customisation to new levels.
A wealth of equipment as standard
To optimise costs without compromising on appeal, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric range includes a number features. All versions have 18-inch wheels as standard, along with a 10-inch central screen, hands-free access and start, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay wireless smartphone compatibility, an electric handbrake and full LED headlamps with automatic high-beam switch.
A range in motion
Renault 5 E-Tech electric will be available in two trim levels at launch, each with a 52kWh battery: Techno and Iconic Five, the first of the ‘Collection’ high-spec trim level.
The Techno trim level standard equipment includes alloy wheels, a 10-inch instrument panel, MULTI-SENSE settings, reversing camera, OpenR Link multimedia system with Google built-in, wireless smartphone charging a charge indicator light on the bonnet and Active Driver Assist.
The Iconic Five trim level adds heated seats and steering wheel, hands-free parking, front, rear and side obstacle sensors, and a host of design features.
To satisfy customers looking for a high-spec version without requiring maximum range, a 40kWh battery will be available at a later date.
Underlining the open-ended strategy of the range, a Roland-Garros ‘Collection’ version is also scheduled.