Renault unveiled its futuristic, electric take on the Renault 5 hatchback a few years ago. The 5 EV concept pushed strongly into the classic hatchback’s clean, boxy looks, and it enchanted many, including ourselves. Finally, manufacturing prototypes are rolling off the assembly line, and they seem to have the same commitment to retro style.
Although this prototype is heavily camouflaged, the profile is nearly identical to the design. Even the door handle locations are consistent. The front handles have been changed from flush-fit to traditional grab handles, most likely for financial reasons, although we don’t know anyone who has a grudge against functioning grips.
There are a few distinctions to be made. The front bumper features a more traditional grille with a low hole for cooling, whereas the concept had much of the front closed off. There’s no sign of the full-width light bar with the integrated Renault emblem at the back. And the box-flared fenders look a little more subdued here.
Unfortunately, we don’t expect to see the Renault 5 EV in America, owing to the brand’s lack of a presence here. However, because Renault is a member of that corporate alliance and the so-called CMF-B EV platform is likely to be shared, its underpinnings could be found under a future Nissan or Mitsubishi.
