Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV: The Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV is a thrilling throwback to the legendary Renault 5 Turbo from the 1980s, reimagined for the electric era. Limited to just 1,980 units, this modern iteration pays homage to the iconic mid-engine hot hatchback that captured the hearts of car enthusiasts decades ago. Unlike the standard Renault 5 EV, the Turbo 3E sits on a bespoke platform, features a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) electric powertrain, and boasts a jaw-dropping 533 bhp and 4,800 Nm of torque. This “mini supercar” is a bold statement from Renault, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge EV technology.
Originally unveiled as a concept in 2022, the Turbo 3E has now been confirmed for production, much to the delight of fans. The car retains the wild, aggressive design language of its predecessor, with exaggerated rear haunches, bulging fenders, and aerodynamic enhancements that scream performance. While it shares the basic silhouette and boxy proportions of the standard Renault 5 EV, the Turbo 3E is longer, wider, and sits on a 40 mm longer wheelbase. The use of carbon fiber throughout the bodyshell helps keep the weight in check, ensuring the car remains agile and responsive.
Inside, the Turbo 3E is a driver-focused machine, stripping away unnecessary luxuries to deliver a raw, rally-inspired experience. The rear seats are removed, replaced by racing bucket seats up front, a partial roll cage, and a minimalist dashboard with dual displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. The center console features an electric gear selector and a vertical lever-style handbrake, reminiscent of rally cars. With its combination of retro styling and modern tech, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is a love letter to the past and a glimpse into the future of performance EVs.
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Specifications of the Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV
Here’s a detailed look at the key specifications of the Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Dual in-wheel electric motors (RWD) |
| Power Output | 533 bhp |
| Torque | 4,800 Nm |
| Battery Capacity | 70 kWh |
| 0-100 kmph | Under 3.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 270 kmph |
| WLTP Range | Up to 400 km |
| Weight | 1,450 kg |
| Wheelbase | 40 mm longer than standard Renault 5 |
| Length | 4.08 m |
| Width | 2.03 m |
| Production Units | Limited to 1,980 |
Features and Design
Exterior Design
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV is a visual masterpiece, staying true to the bold, aggressive design of the original R5 Turbo. The exaggerated rear haunches and bulging fenders give it a muscular stance, while the aerodynamic enhancements, including a rear diffuser and spoiler, improve performance and stability. The car’s carbon fiber bodywork not only reduces weight but also adds a premium touch to its design.
Interior Design
Inside, the Turbo 3E is a no-frills, driver-focused cabin. The removal of rear seats and addition of racing bucket seats emphasize its performance-oriented nature. The partial roll cage adds a sporty touch, while the minimalist dashboard houses a pair of displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. The center console features an electric gear selector and a rally-style handbrake, further enhancing its rally-inspired appeal.
Performance
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV is a powerhouse, delivering 533 bhp and a staggering 4,800 Nm of torque to the rear wheels. This allows the car to accelerate from 0-100 kmph in under 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 270 kmph. Despite its larger 70 kWh battery pack, the Turbo 3E weighs the same as the standard Renault 5 EV, thanks to its extensive use of carbon fiber. The car also boasts a WLTP range of up to 400 km, making it a practical yet thrilling performance EV.
Price and Launch Details
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV is expected to carry a premium price tag, reflecting its limited production run and high-performance capabilities. While exact pricing details have not been revealed, it is likely to be positioned as a niche, high-end model. The car is set to launch in late 2024, with deliveries beginning shortly after.
Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV Conclusion
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV is a stunning tribute to the iconic R5 Turbo of the 1980s, blending retro design with modern electric performance. With its bespoke platform, rear-wheel-drive powertrain, and 533 bhp output, the Turbo 3E is a true “mini supercar” that promises to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. Its limited production run of 1,980 units ensures exclusivity, making it a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The car’s design is a perfect balance of nostalgia and innovation, with its exaggerated rear haunches, carbon fiber bodywork, and rally-inspired interior. The performance figures are equally impressive, with a 0-100 kmph time of under 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 270 kmph. Despite its high-performance credentials, the Turbo 3E remains practical, offering a WLTP range of up to 400 km.
For fans of the original R5 Turbo, the Turbo 3E is a dream come true, offering a modern interpretation of a classic icon. Its combination of retro styling, cutting-edge technology, and thrilling performance makes it a standout in the growing EV market.
As Renault continues to push the boundaries of electric performance, the Turbo 3E serves as a reminder of the brand’s rich motorsport heritage. It’s a car that not only honors the past but also points to an exciting future for electric vehicles.
In a world where EVs are often criticized for lacking soul, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV proves that electric cars can be just as exciting and emotionally engaging as their combustion-engine counterparts. It’s a bold statement from Renault, showcasing their ability to innovate while staying true to their roots.
Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV FAQs
1. What is the Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV?
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV is a modern, electric reinterpretation of the iconic 1980s Renault 5 Turbo. It features a bespoke platform, rear-wheel-drive powertrain, and a 533 bhp electric motor, making it a high-performance “mini supercar.” The car pays homage to the original R5 Turbo with its aggressive design, exaggerated rear haunches, and rally-inspired interior, while incorporating cutting-edge EV technology.
2. How many units of the Renault 5 Turbo 3E will be produced?
The Turbo 3E will be limited to just 1,980 units, making it an exclusive offering for collectors and enthusiasts. This limited production run is a nod to the year 1980, when the original R5 Turbo was first introduced, further cementing its status as a modern classic.
3. What is the performance of the Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV?
The Turbo 3E delivers 533 bhp and 4,800 Nm of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0-100 kmph in under 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 270 kmph. The car’s dual in-wheel electric motors and rear-wheel-drive setup provide exceptional handling and agility, making it a true performance machine.
4. What is the range of the Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV?
The car has a WLTP range of up to 400 km, thanks to its 70 kWh battery pack. Despite its larger battery, the Turbo 3E weighs the same as the standard Renault 5 EV, thanks to its extensive use of lightweight materials like carbon fiber.
5. When will the Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV be launched?
The Turbo 3E is set to launch in late 2024, with deliveries expected to begin shortly after. Enthusiasts and collectors can look forward to getting their hands on this exclusive, high-performance EV, which promises to be a standout in Renault’s lineup.
