Renault has long had a knack for making cars that bring joy to the roads. Drawing inspiration from its iconic retro-inspired models, the French automaker is making a range of electric vehicles that promise to make the world a “nicer place,” one delightful drive at a time. Just over 50 years since the original Renault 5 turned the global small car market on its head, the pure-electric Renault 5 E-Tech appears to spark a new revolution.
You could say the “Renaulution”, a term coined by Renault CEO Luca de Meo in 2020 is going nicely. Set to join Renault’s retro ranks is the Renault 4, a throwback masterpiece revealed in production form at the Paris Motor Show. A tribute to the original 1960s classic, the Renault 4 was the ultimate people’s car – practical, versatile, and ready for adventure. Now, its all-electric successor is set to bring that same spirit to a new generation.
The Renault 4 and Renault 5 EVs aren’t just nostalgic throwbacks; they’re shaping a future where electric cars are more fun, more accessible, and, ultimately, a bigger part of our lives.
Aspirational EVs That Feel Special
Electric cars have come a long way, but many still feel like either high-tech experiments or purely functional machines. Renault is flipping that narrative. The Renault 5 E-Tech, for example, stays true to the spirit of its 1970s predecessor, offering a compact, lively design that makes EV ownership feel exciting. With a price point of around €25,000 (roughly R475,000), it’s one of the more competitively priced electric vehicles in Europe.
With bold colours, playful headlamps, vertical rear lights, sculpted wings, a starry black rooftop, a vent grille on the bonnet, and more, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric embraces the mischievous spirit of its iconic predecessor. The retro-inspired design, colourful interior accents, and playful details (like the ‘5’ motif on its seats and dashboard) turn it into a car that sparks joy every time you get behind the wheel.
No wonder the small electric car snagged the coveted Car of the Year 2025 title—thanks to its high level of technology. As the first vehicle designed entirely on the AmpR Small platform, a new Ampere creation for B-segment electric cars, it comes with some serious advantages. Think flat floors, a long wheelbase (2.54m), and impressive interior and boot space (326 litres). Plus, its lower centre of gravity and lightweight build (under 1,500 kg) make it a standout in performance and practicality.
The Renault 4, A Compact Electric Crossover
While the Renault 5 is about zippy city driving, the upcoming Renault 4 E-Tech takes a different approach. Expected to land later this year (2025), it channels the spirit of the original R4 – bigger and more versatile than the R5 but equally as charming. Both cars give a choice of two batteries, a 40 or 52kWh pack.
Making Electric Driving More Inviting
One of the biggest hurdles to EV adoption has been making them feel as engaging as their petrol-powered counterparts. Renault is tackling that head-on by designing EVs that aren’t just efficient but also fun to drive and own. The Renault 5’s lightweight build (under 1,500kg) ensures a nippy, responsive feel on the road, while its 300km+ range makes it a practical daily driver.
With smart design, reasonable pricing, and a touch of retro charm, the Renault 4 and 5 E-Tech models are proving that going electric doesn’t mean giving up personality. Instead, they’re making the roads and the world a little bit brighter, while boosting electric vehicle adoption, and solidifying Renault’s leadership in sustainable mobility.
For folks who feel nostalgic for the good old times of the classic Renault 5 and 4, the all-electric versions are sure to catch their eye. But beyond that, these vehicles are packed with features that will win over young, tech-savvy drivers too.
