Is there a trend to Recover models and names in the world of motors? Clearly yes. More and more manufacturers are joining this trend of pulling on nostalgia and bringing back vehicles that were successful in the past. We see it in the market, but also in the intentions when launching prototypes. One that has surprised has been the Renault R17 Electric Restomoda modern, electric reinterpretation of the sporty coupé that was so popular in the 1970s.
At the moment, the brand is not talking about a production version, it is more of a creative project for which they have had the help of Ora ItoThe French designer has been in charge of designing new lines for the Renault 17 and adapting it to the current times. The key was Combining heritage with innovationmaintaining the personality that once made it an icon of pop culture. Proof of this is its clean and recognizable design, with some key features that really catch the eye.
Maintains that silhouette of two-door coupe with a tailgate, using a monocoque structure like the original, although now made of carbon fiber. However, it is a wider model in which the headlights have been redesigned, with four rectangular modules and the taillights in a single strip. The color is also chosen Galactic Brown with some faired wheels which will help it maintain a more refined aerodynamics. There is no shortage of details such as those on the C-pillar or the designer’s signature.
Inside there is also Bet on the classic personalityas we see sculpted seats and a very special steering wheel. Upholstery comes into play that uses a mottled satin of fine merino wool (the brown fabric) and a light wool bouclé (for the beige). The positive part of it being a restomod is that it has cutting edge technologygeneration thanks to a central screen and four small geometric screens behind the steering wheel, inspired by the dials of the original model.
The Renault R17 Electric Restomod is a prototype, a design exercise which shows the potential of the French firm, but everything indicates that there is little chance that we will be able to see this model registered. In fact, they have barely given details regarding its propulsion system. We only know that it has a Rear electric motor delivering 270 hpmore than enough to move its approximate 1,400 kg.
