Renault 17 returns with head-turning concept
09/06/2024 02:03 AM
Renault will sadly not turn its stunning R17 concept car into a production model, and will instead display it at this year’s Paris motor show.
Renault has staked an early claim for 2024's best-looking concept at this year's Paris motor show with the retro-inspired R17 electric restomod x Ora Ito.
Sadly, Renault has admitted this is strictly a design exercise and the reborn 17 will not spawn a future production version.
As a homage to the 1971 17, the R17 sports a similar two-door, fastback design, but swaps the 1.6-litre inline four-cylinder engine for a 201kW all-electric powertrain – now located in the rear.
Although the R17 features a carbon-fibre chassis and sleek lines for improved aerodynamics, Renault has not divulged acceleration figures or driving range for the show car.
Tipping the scales at 1.4 tonnes, the all-electric R17 weighs about as much as the latest automatic-equipped Megane RS, which can accelerate from zero-to-100km/h in 5.7 seconds thanks to its 221kW/420Nm 1.8-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder.
As a 'restomod', the R17 actually uses the monocoque platform of the original 17 as a basis, and even features much of the same interior, windows, doors, and underbody.
However, the seats have been updated, while four screens are also added (three for instrumentation, and one as a central display) to modernise the R17's interior aesthetic.
On the outside, the R17 pays tribute to its inspiration with four round headlights, frameless doors, and rear window louvres.
French designer Ora Ito, who collaborated with Renault on the design of the new concept and for which it derives its name, said the intention with the R17 was to keep as much of the original car as possible.
"We kept the most distinctive design features of Renault 17, starting with the front end," he said.
"My aim was to add style and flow, but without altering the character of R17. You can still see the original Renault 17 and its sports coupé looks.
"I wanted to add my own design codes, accentuating some of the characteristics with a futuristic touch to give them a more timeless look.
"We were also aiming for a light-hearted touch. Renault has a strong identity and I like that. You recognise a Renault when you see one, and this restomod is no exception to the rule."
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