Renault Estafette Reimagined as an EV
The original Renault Estafette debuted in 1959 and stayed in production until 1986. It was a favourite van among counterculture hippies who embraced its simple, utilitarian style and spacious interior as the perfect vehicle for their nomadic lifestyle. These groovy Estafette ‘hippy vans’ quickly became icons of the Free Love era.
Since retro is back in style, what if Renault created a futuristic electric vehicle based on the Estafette 50 years later? If they did, what would the reinvented hippie van look like and what features would it have? We take a look at the potential features of this ‘imagined van’.
A Retro-Futuristic Look
The overall design of the concept van would have to draw heavy inspiration from the quirky yet practical styling of the original Estafette, particularly its distinctive single-box silhouette. However, it would reimagine that classic shape with retro-futuristic design, inspired by models like the upcoming Renault 5 EV.
The new van would not be the same without Estafette’s classic ‘sad face’ look with rounded headlights, but would have to be executed with sleek LED lighting elements. The front-end design could also incorporate Renault’s contemporary diamond logo and grille styling cues in a minimalist fashion. At the rear, vertical taillights could extend up into the D-pillars in a futuristic lighting signature.
Sustainable materials could be used for the protective body cladding around the lower sections giving it an adventurous, off-road-inspired stance and at the same time aligning with Renault’s eco-friendly strategy. A large roof rack which allows for carrying gear, bikes or other equipment, would make it even more appealing to the outdoor crowd.
A High-Tech Spacious Interior
To access the interior there would have to be easy-to-open sliding side doors that enable easy access to the spacious cabin with high-tech features including a digital instrument cluster and large infotainment touchscreen; wireless charging; USB ports; and repositionable interior cameras for cargo monitoring.
Ambient lighting would warm up the cabin which is spacious and has flexible seating – making it ideal as a passenger-friendly and light commercial vehicle (LCV). \
Electric Powered
Leveraging Renault’s latest EV technology, the Estafette could utilise the same compact permanent magnet motor(s) and battery packs found in their passenger models. This could provide a modern driving experience with excellent energy efficiency, cargo-hauling abilities and long-range to meet urban commercial and passenger needs.
With a few tasteful hippie-inspired accents and colour options, Renault could take the EV Estafette full circle to attract modern urban nomads who embrace a free-spirited, carpool lifestyle. Or, it could simply become an ultra-efficient, all-electric hauler for small businesses and mobile vendors.
Interested in a Renault van? Why not have a look at the Renault Trafic – it’s the perfect passenger and cargo van!
