Renault R5 E-Tech Electric: The all-electric rebirth

Renault gave the global public its first close look at the Renault R5 E-Tech Electric. Many industry experts were shocked and did not miss the Renault Zoe at all.

Renault R5 E-Tech Electric: Perfect city runabout

The French car manufacturer established its global success with the Renault 5, which was produced between 1972 and 1996. Almost 30 years after the official end of production, the all-electric successor is now following on from this classic combustion engine model. It goes by the name Renault R5 E-Tech Electric and quickly replaces the outdated Renault Zoe. The borrowings from the classic car can by no means be dismissed. For example, Renault has created a separate space for the baguette basket.

This not only underlines the French soul of the vehicle, but also makes it clear where the e-runabout wants to feel at home. And that is in urban areas. This is also underlined by its compact dimensions. With a length of 3.92 m and a width of 1.77 m, even the narrow streets of French cities should pose no problem for it. But despite its compact dimensions, the new edition of the R5 appears to be a real space miracle.

The trunk of the small car can hold an impressive 326 liters. Even though it is 16 cm shorter than a Zoe. With the battery, you have the choice between 40 or 52 kWh. Thanks to the heat pump fitted as standard and modern battery cells, the batteries should last a long time. These should then provide a range of 300 or 400 km in the best conditions. This certainly does not make the R5 a touring car. However, it is definitely sufficient for use in the city or the occasional cross-country journey.

• More on the topic: Renault Zoe: small electric car to be discontinued, no direct successor planned

Renault R5 E-Tech Electric: Comes in 3 variants

Renault’s latest coup is to be launched in three different versions. The “Evolution” forms the basis and the next two higher versions are called “Techno” and “Iconic”. But this is just the beginning. A sports version with the name A290 is to follow in the course of time. The equipment in the basic version is of course exciting.

A 10-inch control display is standard, as are 18-inch tires. Furthermore, the base model already comes with LED headlights that offer automatic high beam. However, those who want to use fast charging stations will not be happy with the basic equipment. This is because it comes without a DC connection. This is not really in keeping with the times, which is why we will probably have to expect an adjustment in the near future.

The ability to precondition the battery is anything but outdated. Here, the vehicle adjusts the battery temperature so that charging can take place as quickly as possible. The Plug & Charge feature is also cool. Here you can leave your charging card plugged in and only have to insert the plug at public charging stations – provided the charging station is compatible, of course.

Renault R5 E-Tech Electric: lots of technology on board

With its low weight and compact dimensions, the R5 promises plenty of driving fun and maneuverability. This is underlined by a turning circle of just 10.3 meters. The modern technical driving aids on board also promise safety. In addition to the mandatory assistance systems such as traffic sign recognition, there are also premium features such as emergency lane departure warning and rear emergency brake assist. The exit assistant is also extremely practical. These optional features are particularly interesting in the usual busy urban traffic. On the highway and country roads, functions such as adaptive cruise control are exciting.

Price and availability

With the Renault R5 E-Tech Electric, the French have clearly turned a project close to their hearts into reality. Especially in direct comparison to the Zoe, the car manufacturer has made a huge leap forward here. If you want to take a seat in the new classic, you have to expect a base price of 25,000 euros. This could make the small car particularly interesting for city dwellers looking for a small electric car at a comparatively low price. The chic little runabout should be on our roads from the end of 2024.