Renault 5 EV Prototype: A Glimpse Into The French Automaker’s Ambitious Plans

Renault is set to release an electric version of its popular hatchback, The Renault 5, and the vehicle is set to be launched in the second half of 2024. According to a news article published by WIRED, the new car will be based on the modular CMF-B EV platform, which has been developed in-house specifically for small electric vehicles and the platform will be used for other vehicles from Renault, as well as its sibling brands (Alpine, Dacia, and Nissan), with which Renault has an alliance.

The CMF-B EV platform is said to be strong and capable of holding large battery clusters — however, details regarding, for example, the number of battery cells, the range of the vehicle, and its efficiency still remain a secret. Platform leader for CMF-B EV, Giles Godinot, suggests that the car may come with two battery sizes and ranges, with one version serving as a second car for households and the other version as the primary vehicle.

The Renault 5 EV will be produced on a lower platform, and it will have a wider track (both front and rear) than the current Clio hatchback; plastic wheel arch extensions have been added to the side to accommodate the wider track. The car’s front part will also feature a flap that hides its charge port.

Although the prototype driven by WIRED did not resemble the 2021 concept that wowed crowds, Renault has promised that the final design will be similar. The CMF-B EV platform is expected to be around 30% cheaper to produce than Renault’s current small EV platform, which underpins the company’s popular Zoe hatchback. The Zoe, which has been around for more than a decade, is due to be replaced by the Renault 5 EV — while the Zoe was at the forefront of affordable electric motoring, its range has been surpassed by newer models (but Renault argues that the Zoe has been regularly updated and remains competitive in its sector).

The Renault 5 already has a cult following, and the prospect of an electric version has generated significant interest, with it being expected to be one of the most exciting electric cars on the market. Even though details still remain sparse, the car’s affordability and charm are likely to appeal to a broad range of consumers.