The Renault 5 E-Tech will be the French brand’s replacement to the aging Zoe.
While the Renault Zoe might not be very popular in Malaysia it did reasonably well in Europe. Globally, over a quarter of a million units of this battery electric vehicle have been sold since 2012. More than a decade later, it continues to soldier on in its facelifted form with multiple improvements being made to its e-motor and battery system. However, Renault has announced that production for the Zoe will indeed come to an end by late Q1 2024. Its successor was teased in concept form back in 2021 and will be fully revealed in February. It’s none other than the revived Renault 5 in EV form.
It’s not clear if the Renault 5 E-Tech will be offered in Malaysia. The Zoe is hardly flying off the shelves and beside BYD and Tesla, EV models in Malaysia are still looked at as toys for those with extra cash to spend. But in case you’re wondering, here’s what Renault has shared about the 5.
What we know about the New Renault 5 E-Tech
Headlights
The distinctive headlights of the R5 play a crucial role in its design, rendering the front end easily identifiable. What distinguishes them is not just their shape but also the central mark on the lens, reminiscent of the human eye’s pupil. This homage to the 1972 “The Adventures of Supercar” advertisement imbues the contemporary R5 with a human-like expression.
Bonnet Charge Indicator
The front end of the historic model no longer features the air intake on the bonnet, a clear indication of the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric’s belonging to the realm of electric vehicles. In its place, a charge indicator light has been incorporated, creating the iconic number “5” when the vehicle is fully charged. This high-tech yet functional and enjoyable feature serves as an accessible interface with a human touch, allowing users to easily check the battery charge at a glance.
Wheel Arches
The wheel arches contribute to a wider stance, imparting the R5 with the appearance of a compact car that commands attention on the road. The graphic design accentuates a distinctive and easily recognizable personality, evoking memories of the R5 Turbo.
Rear Lights
The vertical rear lights incorporate a function that extends the side panel, enhancing the aerodynamic performance of the R5 by mitigating air turbulence.
