Renault Revives 1970s 17 Coupé as Electric Restomod
Renault has brought back the iconic 17 coupé from the 1970s, but with a modern twist. The French automaker has partnered with designer Ora Ito to create a sleek, sporting electric vehicle (EV) that combines retro design cues with modern technology. This restomod version of the 17 coupé features a carbonfibre chassis and a powerful 270bhp electric motor on the rear axle, providing as much power as a Volkswagen Golf GTI.
Renault’s decision to revive the 17 coupé is part of a series of reimagined classics that the company has been working on. The goal is to blend the classic charm of the original models with modern underpinnings and technology. In the case of the 17 restomod, Renault has replaced the original petrol engine and front-wheel-drive format with an electric motor, significantly improving the car’s performance.
While Renault has not provided specific performance details for the 17 restomod, the company claims that it will surpass the performance of the original petrol version, which had a 0-60mph time of 13.2 seconds. The use of a carbonfibre chassis helps keep the car’s weight down to just 1400kg, making it lighter than the Lotus Emira.
Stylistically, Renault’s reimagining of the 17 coupé follows the trend of recent electric revivals of classic cars, such as the Opel Manta and Hyundai Pony coupés. The design by Ora Ito aims to combine the classic charm of the original with modern technologies and materials. The restomod retains the same cabin, doors, windows, glass, seals, and underbody as the original car but sits closer to the ground and has been widened for better roadholding.
The R17 Electric Restomod x Ora Ito will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show next month, alongside the production version of the Renault 4 electric crossover. Although Renault has not mentioned any plans for a production version of the 17 restomod, the company has been reviving old models as EVs, including the 4, 5, and Twingo. However, the business case for a revival of a two-door coupé like the 17 may be less obvious, given the decline in popularity of hatchback-based coupés in recent years.
Despite this, there are signs of a coupé renaissance in the industry. Honda has brought back the Prelude as a hybrid coupé based on the Civic, and Toyota has hinted at plans for a similar revival of the Celica. The growing interest in electric vehicles and the push for more sustainable transportation options may contribute to the revival of classic coupés, albeit with electric powertrains.
In conclusion, Renault’s revival of the 17 coupé as an electric restomod is an exciting development in the automotive industry. The combination of retro design and modern technology creates a unique and compelling vehicle that pays homage to the original model while embracing the future of mobility. Although the future of the 17 restomod as a production car remains uncertain, it represents a step towards reimagining classic cars for the electric era.
