![This retro-futuristic Renault R17 EV restomod needs to go into production immediately [Video]](https://i0.wp.com/electrek.co/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Renault-EV-R17-hero.jpg?resize=1200,628&quality=82&strip=all&ssl=1)
This retro-futuristic Renault R17 EV restomod needs to go into production immediately [Video]
French automaker Renault recently unveiled an all-electric restomod of its classic R17 model launched in 1971. Imagined through a collaboration with French designer Ora Ïto, this unique Renault EV is a home run blending of a classic past with the technology of the future, and it needs to go into production.
Forgive us for covering this unveiling so late, but Renault is admittedly not on the forefront of our news radar when it comes to EVs and new models. The French automaker does currently sell all-electric models, but its not exactly known for delivering sleek and sexy modes of transportation.
That was a different story in the 1970s, when Renault debuted the R17 coupe, which saw a production run in Europe throughout the decade. During that time, the R17 was marketed in the US, but only sold in small numbers. We’d argue those sales numbers would change if Renault brought the EV restomod seen below into production and global markets.
Since 2021, Renault has developed a number of unique creative projects that collaborate with brilliant minds in design to showcase exercises in concepts that nod to the automaker’s 125-year heritage and notable models that have made their imprint on car culture.
Renault’s latest project is an exquisite EV version of the classic R17 coupe, reimagined for the modern world with the help of French designer Ora Ïto.
This EV concept is the stuff Renault should be selling
In the US, at least. Europeans may not have quite the appetite (or parking space) for this style of vehicle these days, but this Renault EV concept is a work of art, in our opinion, and we want to see more. The R17 restomod debuted at Maison5 in Paris last week as the fourth collaboration with Ora Ïto in as many years.
As you can see from the image comparison below, the Renault EV concept combines new and old in a beautiful sculptural redesign that holds true to the original but accentuates all elements in a futuristic yet familiar style.
The EV version of the Renault R17 is 17 cm wider and appears to have a slightly shorter rear for better aerodynamics. It also has redesigned wings and wheels for a more modern-day look that is still retro-looking.
The two original headlamps have been transformed into four narrower rectangular modules with rounded corners and the the rear lights are now a single strip. Under the hood, Renault and Ïto have replaced the original R17’s front-wheel drive and longitudinal engine with fuel injection with a rear EV powertrain that boasts 270 horsepower.
The Renault EV concept’s interior was designed to maintain the comfort of the original R17, while improving certain components for the all-electric age. The seats were redesigned around the original “petal” structure with new upholstery, and the dash now features a central screen as well as four small geometric screens behind the steering wheel, inspired by the dials of the original model. Ora Ïto spoke about the design process and the thought behind this reimagined version of a classic Renault vehicle:
We kept the most distinctive design features of Renault 17, starting with the front end. My aim was to add stye 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. This is what I did with the wheels, for example. My signature is also visible inside the car. We teleported Renault 17 into the future, making a few subtle changes that give it a whole new look. Our key phrase was: ‘a detail is not a detail’. There is a certain ambivalence in that it is not intended to be taken entirely at face value. We were also aiming for a lighthearted touch. Renault has a strong identity and I like that. You recognize a Renault when you see one, and this restomod is no exception to the rule.
Renault shared that BEV concept sits atop a carbon fiber chassis and its “Galactic Brown” exterior is an original shade developed specially for this EV. The R17 restomod will be on display at Renault’s booth at the Paris Motor Show, taking place October 14-20, 2024. You can see more of the EV in Renault’s video below:
Electrek’s take
I will come right out and say I adore this car. I’ve always had a soft spot for all things retro, especially those that nod to design elements from the 1980s get me every time.
I loved the Hyundai IONIQ 5 when it came out for the same reason—hell, I still love the IONIQ 5. However, this Renault EV concept has taken it to another level. Hyundai developed something similar with its N Vision 74 concept, which was recently announced to be going into production, so why can’t Renault do the same?
I’m sure it’s easier said than done. Still, I think many people would gravitate toward these types of EVs because they’re not such a deviation from traditional design and provide a classic look with all the benefits of zero emissions. It feels like a slam dunk, and I hope others agree with me and speak up.
If this concept came to fruition, I would 100% consider buying one )as long as I don’t have to move to France). What do you guys think? Dope, or nope?
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
Climate XChange’s Annual EV Raffle is back for the 10th year running – and for the first time ever, Climate XChange has two raffle options on the table! The nonprofit has helped lucky winners custom-order their ideal EVs for the past decade. Now you have the chance to kick off your holiday season with a brand new EV for as little as $100.
About half of the raffle tickets have been sold so far for each of the raffles – you can see the live ticket count on Climate XChange’s homepage – so your odds of winning are better than ever.
But don’t wait – raffle ticket sales end on December 8!
Climate XChange is working hard to help states transition to a zero-emissions economy. Every ticket you buy supports this mission while giving you a chance to drive home your dream EV.
Here’s how Climate XChange’s 10th Annual Raffle works:
The Luxury Raffle
- Grand Prize: The winner can choose any EV on the market, fully customized up to $120,000. This year, you can split the prize between two EVs if the total is $120,000 or less.
- Taxes covered: This raffle comes with no strings – Climate XChange also pays all of the taxes.
- Runner-up prizes: Even if you don’t win the Grand Prize, you still have a chance at the 2nd prize of $12,500 and the 3rd prize of $7,500.
- Ticket price: $250.
- Grand Prize Drawing: December 12, 2025.
- Only 5,000 tickets will be sold for the Luxury Raffle.
The Mini Raffle (New for 2025)
- Grand Prize: Choose any EV on the market, fully customized, up to $45,000. This is the perfect raffle if you’re ready to make the switch to an EV but aren’t in the market for a luxury model.
- Taxes covered: Climate XChange pays all the taxes on the Mini Raffle, too.
- Ticket price: $100.
- Only 3,500 tickets will be sold for the Mini Raffle.
Why it’s worth entering
For a decade, Climate XChange has run a raffle that’s fair, transparent, and exciting. Every ticket stub is printed, and the entire drawing is live-streamed, including the loading of the raffle drum. Independent auditors also oversee the process.
Plus, your odds on the Luxury and Mini Raffles are far better than most car raffles, and they’re even better if you enter both.
Remember that only 5,000 tickets will be sold for the Luxury Raffle and only 3,500 for the Mini Raffle, and around half of the available tickets have been sold so far, so don’t miss your shot at your dream EV!
Climate XChange personally works with the winners to help them build and order their dream EVs. The winner of the Ninth Annual EV Raffle built a gorgeous storm blue Rivian R1T.
How to enter
Go to CarbonRaffle.org/Electrek before December 8 to buy your ticket. Start dreaming up your perfect EV – and know that no matter what, you’re helping accelerate the shift to clean energy.
Who is Climate XChange?
Climate XChange (CXC) is a nonpartisan nonprofit working to help states pass effective, equitable climate policies because they’re critical in accelerating the transition to a zero-emissions economy. CXC advances state climate policy through its State Climate Policy Network (SCPN) – a community of more than 15,000 advocates and policymakers – and its State Climate Policy Dashboard, a leading data platform for tracking climate action across the US.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
The CSC Monterey – one of the most charming little electric scooters on the US market – has dropped to a shockingly low $1,699, down from its original $2,899 MSRP. That’s nearly half off for a full-size, street-legal electric scooter that channels major Honda Super Cub energy, but without the gas, noise, or maintenance of the original.
CSC Motorcycles, based in Azusa, California, has a long history of importing and supporting small-format electric and gas bikes, but the Monterey has always stood out as the brand’s “fun vibes first” model. With its step-through frame, big retro headlight, slim bodywork, and upright seating position, it looks like something from a 1960s postcard – just brought into the modern era with lithium batteries and a brushless hub motor.
I had my first experience on one of these scooters back in 2021, when I reviewed the then-new model here on Electrek. I instantly fell in love with it and even got one for my dad. It now lives at his place and I think he gets just as much joy from looking at it in his garage as riding it.
You can see my review video below.
The performance is solidly moped-class, which is exactly what it’s designed for. A 2,400W rear hub motor pushes the Monterey up to a claimed 30 mph or 48 km/h (I found it really topped out at closer to 32 mph or 51 km/h), making it perfect for city streets, beach towns, and lower-speed suburban routes.
A 60V, roughly 1.6 kWh removable battery offers around 30–40 miles (48-64 km) of real-world range, depending on how aggressively you twist the throttle. It’s commuter-ready, grocery-run-ready, and campus-ready right out of the crate.
It’s also remarkably approachable. At around 181 pounds (82 kg), the Monterey is light for a sit-down scooter, making it easy to maneuver and park. There’s a small storage cubby, LED lighting, and the usual simple twist-and-go operation. And it comes with full support from CSC, a company that keeps a massive warehouse stocked with components and spare parts.
My sister has a CSC SG250 (I’m still trying to convert her to electric) and has gotten great support from them in the past, including from their mechanics walking her through carburetor questions over the phone. So I know from personal experience that CSC is a great company that stands behind its bikes.
But the real story here is the price. Scooters in this class typically hover between $2,500 and $4,500, and electric retro-style models often jump well above that.
At $1,699, the Monterey is one of the least expensive street-legal electric scooters available from a reputable US distributor, especially one that actually stocks parts and provides phone support.
If you’ve been curious about swapping a few car errands for something electric – or you just want a fun, vintage-styled runabout for getting around town – this is one of the best deals of the year.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
In the Electrek Podcast, we discuss the most popular news in the world of sustainable transport and energy. In this week’s episode, we discuss a big Tesla Robotaxi setback, the new Mercedes-Benz CLA EV, Bollinger is over, and more.
Today’s episode is brought to you by Climate XChange, a nonpartisan nonprofit working to help states pass effective, equitable climate policies. Sales end on Dec. 8th for its 10th annual EV raffle, where participants have multiple opportunities to win their dream model. Visit CarbonRaffle.org/Electrek to learn more.
The show is live every Friday at 4 p.m. ET on Electrek’s YouTube channel.
As a reminder, we’ll have an accompanying post, like this one, on the site with an embedded link to the live stream. Head to the YouTube channel to get your questions and comments in.
After the show ends at around 5 p.m. ET, the video will be archived on YouTube and the audio on all your favorite podcast apps:
We now have a Patreon if you want to help us avoid more ads and invest more in our content. We have some awesome gifts for our Patreons and more coming.
Here are a few of the articles that we will discuss during the podcast:
Here’s the live stream for today’s episode starting at 4:00 p.m. ET (or the video after 5 p.m. ET:
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
-
Sports2 years agoStory injured on diving stop, exits Red Sox game
-
Sports3 years ago‘Storybook stuff’: Inside the night Bryce Harper sent the Phillies to the World Series
-
Sports2 years agoGame 1 of WS least-watched in recorded history
-
Sports3 years agoButton battles heat exhaustion in NASCAR debut
-
Sports3 years agoMLB Rank 2023: Ranking baseball’s top 100 players
-
Sports4 years ago
Team Europe easily wins 4th straight Laver Cup
-
Environment3 years agoJapan and South Korea have a lot at stake in a free and open South China Sea
-
Environment1 year agoHere are the best electric bikes you can buy at every price level in October 2024