Renault’s Ode to the 1970s
Taking vintage car designs and adding modern aesthetics and tech may not be revolutionary in itself, but when done right, the results are truly remarkable. French designer Ora Ïto, teaming up with Renault, has achieved just that with the R17 ElectroMod, a stunning electric concept that pays homage to the iconic 1970s R17 sports coupé.
A Modern Revival of the Original R17
The R17 ElectroMod is the fourth collaboration in Renault’s series of heritage-inspired projects, following successful reinterpretations of the Renault 4 and Renault 5. It stands out for its futuristic design and enhanced performance, thanks to a carbon-fibre chassis and a fully electric powertrain. Debuting at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, the R17 ElectroMod impressed with its seamless blend of retro aesthetics and modern technology, showcasing Renault’s commitment to innovation while honouring its iconic past.
Renault’s Ode to the 1970s
The two-door coupé, launched in 1971 and produced until 1979, epitomises the idealistic spirit of the 1970s.
Ora Ïto’s restomod honours its avant-garde roots while incorporating modern electric technology. His ‘simplexity’ philosophy streamlines the design to create a sleek and modern look without compromising its sense of nostalgia.
New and Retained Details of the R17
Renault’s Ode to the 1970s
The Renault R17 electric restomod preserves key elements of the original, including the cabin structure, frameless doors, and signature angular lines. Here are some key highlights to know:
- Powertrain: Equipped with a 200 kW electric motor, the ElectroMod boasts a range of 399 kilometres.
- Lightweight Build: Constructed with a carbon-fibre chassis, it weighs just 1.4 tonnes—impressive for an EV.
- Retro Details: It retains iconic design elements like rear window louvres and angular lines while updating features with LED lights and a wider stance for improved stability.
Unique Twist on a Classic Coupe
Renault’s Ode to the 1970s
The coupe’s body is coated in Galactic Brown, a perfect homage to the ‘70s classic. The original four circular headlights have been replaced with sleek, thin LEDs featuring a subtle yellow tint. Ora Ïto’s vision of “simplexity” — the art of simplifying complex forms is depicted in the R17 ElectroMod. His design maintains the sharp, confident lines of the original ’70s model, but with updates that reflect today’s design and engineering trends. For example, the frameless doors and squared-off body shape are true to the past, while the ultra-modern touches, like the sleek LED light strip spanning the rear, bring the R17 squarely into the future.
Renault R17 Revamped Interior
Renault’s Ode to the 1970s
Like the exterior, the interior of the R17 stays true to 1970s-inspired themes. A two-spoke steering wheel with a flat top and bottom, wrapped in fabric, immediately catches the eye. Wooden trim lines the dashboard, while, like the original Renault 17, four prominent gauges sit in front of the driver. The key update is that these gauges are now square-shaped digital displays, each with a small screen and red graphics. A larger screen serves as the infotainment display. The seats are upholstered in a blend of brown leather and Merino and bouclé wool white fabric, adding a touch of sophistication.
Renault’s Ode to the 1970s
As for performance, this retro-inspired concept is equipped with a rear-mounted all-electric powertrain, delivering 201kW of power.
Renault Won’t Turn the Stunning R17 Concept into a Production Model
This car will remain a one-off, another incredibly cool EV restomod that you can’t buy, as Renault currently has no plans to bring it to market. While we won’t be seeing this beauty on the road anytime soon, Group1 Renault offers a fantastic range of vehicles that are ready to drive. Book a test drive today to explore our selection, and discover your next ride!
