Renault

In France, they say the following about the big car brands: Citroen for the sophisticated, Peugeot for the status-conscious and Renault for the practical (or something like that). My favorite among the 3 is Renault, with ramifications for motorsport.

Renault 5 E-Tech

Posted 24/04/2026 by Terje Bjørnstad

Renault R5 E-Tech — Renault 5 E-Tech. A green car in the middle of the housing estate.

It's striking how many electric cars look exactly the same. Considerations such as battery capacity, wind tunnels and artificial intelligence help shape new cars in the same vein. Over time, brand identity can disappear, and with it customer loyalty.

When Renault launched an electric car with similarities to one of its biggest successes ever, the motive may have been to entice previous customers to choose Renault again when they switch to electric driving. If the company had chosen to make a completely ordinary electric car, the risk of losing customers to Chinese automakers increases.

Hyre.no has placed new Renault 5 E-Tech all over the city.

What kind of car is the new Renault R5?

No one needs to fear Renault's electric cars. Renault, together with Nissan, has had success with its previous models. Moreover, the Renault 5 is not much more special than its competitors. It looks like a passenger car in the B-segment, but is built as a small Crossover/SUV on the Ampr/Small platform also used by Nissan and Mitsubishi. You sit so high that you can look down on many other cars. The battery pack is large for its class and is located under the passenger compartment. “Our” car has 55 kWh gross and 52 kWh net. This gives a WLTP range of 410 km, which is on par with similar cars from other manufacturers.

Before Easter I noticed that Motor Forum Oslo prepared cars for the car sharing service RentNow all the colorful cars are placed out in the city so that those who wish can unlock one of them and drive away via an app.

I've already studied the 5 up close several times before. One of the visual impressions that lingers is how poorly the two screens on the dashboard work together and how cluttered the information is presented. This surprises me because the software was developed in collaboration with Google.

When I previously drove the larger Renault Scenic E-Tech, I was annoyed that the volume knob for the radio was hidden, while a huge button for multisense – driving mode selection – was centrally located on the steering wheel. It is in the same place on the R5 as well. You can press sequentially through all the driving programs, with associated light changes and mood lighting in the car. But how often do you really need to change driving modes?

Encourages active driving

Inconsistent information is typically French. What is fortunately not typically French is how the Renault 5 behaves on the road. It is very stable in the corners. The steering is sharp, and can bring more driving pleasure than I expected. I would like a little more steering feel in the steering wheel – especially around the middle position. Nevertheless, you can feel the power from the wheels through the steering wheel when you let off the gas out of the corners. The chassis is well suited to active driving on winding country roads – and in my opinion this is the car's greatest strength. In return, you have to accept that it feels a little blunt over vertical bumps in the road – which is typical of small cars.

Small car feeling?

The high seating position and quiet interior give the feeling of driving a larger car. However, I often got the feeling of a French small car in the way the car moved from a standstill and at parking speed – even when the Comfort driving mode was selected.

In a car with a total length of 3.92 meters, compromises are required to make use of the space. The luggage compartment is 326 liters including a small compartment for charging cables. There was plenty of room in the driver's seat, but there was no room for me to sit behind myself. In this case, I couldn't get my shoes properly under the seat. Men's shoes in size 46 are considered very unusual in France.

“Our” Renault 5 has equipment level Techno w/ Pack Parking, Driving and Safety Assistant. This equipment package is required to get blind spot warnings in the mirrors. An important safety feature, especially if several people in the household drive the car. The same package also offers automatic parking. We were also followed by voice-controlled “Reno” on the road. He could find radio stations and destinations for us. Ask him about Terje's cars, he happily tells it with support in ChatGPT.

We took the car for a ride, among other things Oslo Fashion Outlet in Vestby to renew the summer wardrobe. In summer temperatures, consumption and range should not give any surprises. Nor did they. Even with a few miles on the highway, consumption did not exceed 13,28 kWh/100km. That would have given a total range of 390 km. Renault does not support single-pedal driving, but driving with regenerative braking provides an approximate function where you only need the brake pedal to a full stop.

The batteries can be preheated when you select a charging station in the navigation system that is registered by Google Maps. The maximum charging speed is 100 kW. According to Renault, you should then be able to charge from 15% to 80% in 30 minutes. With the on-board charger, the charging speed is 11 kW. When I plugged in the charger right after a trip in lovely summer weather, it quickly went up to 11 kW.

Ampr/Small — One of the car's nice features.

Standard or optional equipment?

I mentioned the competition from China earlier. Several car manufacturers are now focusing on retaining customers through retro design and brand loyalty. But at one point they may run into a wall in relation to their Chinese competitors. Much of what is standard in Chinese cars is optional equipment in European cars.

Renault Ampr — Stylish lines around the tailgate.

Below the VAT limit

The Renault 5 is a good candidate for cars that can be purchased below the VAT threshold of 300.000 kroner. There is a variant with a smaller battery and a range of 310 km, but I am sure that most people will prefer the large battery. A car in the “Evolution” equipment level barely crawls under the limit with the large 52 kW battery. Equipment such as a heat pump, non-adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors and climate control are still standard. What you do not get, and cannot order additionally, is Google Maps and preheating of the batteries. Most of the relevant safety equipment is also in place. Unfortunately, the blind spot warning package cannot be ordered either, since the Evolution has simpler exterior mirrors.

What will cause the price to tip over 300.000 is the following:

Any color other than “Pop Green” costs 12.375 kr (!)
Winter wheels.
Many people will probably buy alloy wheels for their summer tires and put their winter tires on the included steel wheels.
Baguette holder (price unknown) 🙂

Facts Renault 5 E-Tech

Weights and Measures
External dimensions - L, W, H: 392 x 177 x 150 cm
Wheelbase: 254 cm
Net weight: 1457 kg (without driver)
Payload: 388 kg
Number of seats: 5
Max trailer weight w/brakes: 500 kg
– without brakes: 500 kg
Roof load: –

Drivetrain
Engine: Electric located at the front
Power: 150 HP
Torque: 245 Nm
Gearbox: 1-speed automatic
Front wheel drive

Performances
Top speed: 150 km/h
0-100: 8.0 seconds

Battery pack
Manufacturer: AESC (cells only, packaged by Renault/Ampr themselves).
Type: Lithium-ion
Gross capacity: 55 kWh
Total capacity for use: 52 kWh
Heat pump

Range and consumption
WLTP: 410 km (combined)
Stated consumption WLTP: 15,0 kWh/100km
Real consumption test: 13,3 kWh/100km

Cargo
Contacts: Type2 and CSS
On-board charger: 11kW
Charging time Type2, 11kW, 15-80%: 3h 15 min.
Charging time CSS, 150kW, 15-80%: 30 min.
Preheating the batteries: Yes cars with Google Maps.

Luggage compartment
As 5-seater: 326 litres
As 2-seater: 1106 litres

Tires
Dimension: 195/55R18 H XL
Type: Winter tires without studs
Brand: Continental VikingContact 7

Prices
Price: NOK 339.900 (52 kWh, Techno)
Package parking, driving & safety assist: NOK 12.375
Varnish supplement: 0

About the car
Place of production: Douai, France
Color: Pop Green
Equipment level: Techno
Owner: Volkswagen Møller Bilfinans
Model: 2026
Mileage: New
Source: Renault.no, Vegvesen.no

See

Renault.no

R5 with retrofitted electricity

Posted 06/01/2026 by Terje Bjørnstad

Renault enthusiasts can retrofit electric powertrains to their classic R5 and R4. The first cars were converted on behalf of Renault.

Few car brands have as long a history as Renault. In 2027, they will open the doors of a large museum at the closed factory in Flins, about 40 km from Paris. Renault owns a living collection of classic and historic vehicles. New vehicles are added, while others are removed from the collection. In this regard, an auction was recently held, called The Renault Icons, where 180 objects were auctioned off. The most valuable category was related to Formula 1 with cars from Renault Sport, Williams and Alpine. The most bizarre were prototypes and concept cars previously shown at car shows. The group that caught my interest was RetrofitThese are previous models that Renault has converted to electric operation.

R-Fit

We have previously written about the company R-Fit in Cassis, not far from Marseille. They specialize in converting Citroen 2CV og Mehari to electric operation in just 20 hours. Renault has subsequently partnered with R-Fit to create similar conversions for the Renault R4 and R5. The R-Fit conversion kits keep the weight and engine power as close to the cars' original specifications as possible. This allows the cars to retain their original chassis, brakes and steering. The electric motor is mounted longitudinally in the existing flywheel housing with power transmission via the car's original gearbox and drive shafts. The R-Fit control box is then placed above the engine, while the batteries are placed at the rear. The conversion is approved - fully homologated under the L7E class (4-wheel motorcycle).

Renault R5 GTL show car. Sold at auction for €18.060. Photo: Peter Singhof / Articurial.

1982 Renault R5 GTL R-Fit Electric. Sold at auction for €21.672. Photo: Peter Singhof / Articurial.

1983 Renault R5 GTL R-Fit Electric. Sold at auction for €26.458. Photo: Peter Singhof / Articurial.

Part of Renault's electric image

Several of the auctioned retrofit vehicles have been used to transport personnel during French Open of Roland Garros stage in 2022. Renault had recently entered as premium partners at the event. The converted cars were perfectly suited for the purpose. The new electric R5 E-Tech was only shown as a concept car at the time. Later, some of the retrofit cars were exhibited at, among others, Epoqu'Auto fair in Paris. There, the public could also get to know R-Fit better.

Unchanged instrument panel. The display at the bottom right of the speedometer shows the battery status. Photo: Peter Singhof / Articurial.

The installation steals luggage space. Photo: Peter Singhof / Articurial.

Technical specifications

1981 Renault R5 Electric (R-Fit):

Original mechanical gearbox retained
Synchronous brushless motor
Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery
Weight distribution very similar to equivalent vehicles with combustion engines
Range of approximately 80 km
Full charge in 3.5 hours via a 16A – 220V socket
Electronic charge meter
10.7 kWh battery pack with 105V
Engine power 30 hp
2 year warranty

Prices

Prices for electrification may vary as there are different regional support schemes in France. In England they operate with a price from 19.995 GBP including taxes. For Norway it will probably be worthwhile to buy a fully restored and electrified car below the VAT limit. The 3 Retrofit cars were taken from the auction where the bid prices were €16.080 (green car), €21.672 (yellow car) and €26.458 (white car). All cars were restored by Renault prior to 2022 when they were rebuilt by R-Fit.

In addition to the stated prices, 17% French VAT must be paid. When exporting, you can expect to get a VAT refund. Based on today's prices, importing the green car would cost 216.200 NOK including Norwegian scrappage deposit, excluding any fees.

New or old?

An electrified R5 from the 1980s has a range of 80 km. A new Renault R5 E-Tech has a range of 308 km for short range and 411 for long range. New electric R5s are also at least a class larger than the veteran and packed with safety features that were not common over 40 years ago. So there is no rational reason to buy an old R5, whether it is electrified or not.

A vintage car is not normally chosen because of its practical features, nor because of its economy. Replacing the drivetrain is, for many, like replacing the soul of the car. Nevertheless, it can make the car more usable, more practical and less demanding. No oil splashes in the garage, no starting problems, no oil changes or pins and plugs that need to be replaced, no winter preservation. Then you might have more time to enjoy trips in a cool, French car.

Today's R5 E-Tech

It is interesting to see that two of the retrofit cars that Renault had rebuilt are in the same colors that they later used to promote their new R5 E-Tech. Based on Renault-Nissan's Amp Small platform and a successful European retro design, the new R5 should be able to hold its own against the competition from China. However, I think the user interface – the dashboard with buttons and levers is cluttered. Here Renault could have benefited from studying its Chinese competitors, although French cars have never excelled at creating intuitive user interfaces.

Renault R5 E-Tech – candidate for Car of the Year 2025

See

R-Fit English saddles
Artcurial – The Renault Icons
"Les Collections Renault" will open in 2027

Renault Scenic E-Tech

Posted 13/10/2025 by Terje Bjørnstad

Renault has shown that they can make good electric cars. The Zoe was one of the very first usable electric cars on the market. The Scenic E-Tech was named European Car of the Year 2024. Can it stand out among the other electric SUV models?

Where is the knob?

You shouldn't take an unfamiliar car out on the road without getting to know it beforehand. Yet that's exactly what I do. First I adjust the seat and steering wheel – and then I drive off straight away. If the driver's seat is intuitively designed, everything goes well. And I can say that (almost) everything went well. The gear selector is located on a lever on the right side of the steering wheel, just above the wiper lever. So after a few involuntary swipes of the wipers, I maneuvered the car out of the parking garage and onto the road.

The infotainment system is Google Assistant and can be operated easily while driving. I found my radio station, but no volume knob to turn down the volume. So with one eye on the road, I tried to find the volume knob with the other. Finally, I found it hidden behind, under the steering wheel on the right side – completely invisible from the driver’s seat. Renault has placed the volume knob out of sight, and instead placed the button to select driving program very visible on the steering wheel. I think you change the volume more often than you change the driving program?

Steady in the turns

The Scenic works well on the road. The suspension absorbs bumps and potholes in the road very well. Speed bumps can also be driven over without discomfort. The car is very stable sideways. When cornering, you don't notice that you are sitting in a vehicle that weighs 1,9 tons. In cars like this, the weight of the batteries is often felt well in roundabouts and tight corners – either in the form of roll or that you feel the grip being squeezed. In this car, it was as if centrifugal force had been magically dispelled.

Lacks steering feel

One factor that dampens the perception of lateral forces may be that the steering does not convey what forces the wheels are exposed to. I give a plus for the steering being light and direct, but it also gets a minus for not being able to feel the grip through the steering wheel.

Disco button

I had no trouble finding the button to select the driving program. It is marked "MULTI SENSE" and very clearly located on the steering wheel. Each program has its own mood lighting. So if you press it several times, the car will have disco lighting. I chose to stop the show at "Comfort". "Eco" can also work, but then I noticed that the engine stalled ("stuck") when I wanted to increase speed on the highway. I think everyone can drive just as economically in "Comfort" mode without having to feel like you are losing engine power.

Consumption and range

At the end of the day, my Eco score on the dashboard showed 88/100 with an average consumption of 16.0 kWh/100km. You can regulate the regenerative braking with paddles on the steering wheel. I chose a fairly powerful brake and drove with one pedal. The stated range is 622 km. My calculated range was 539 – 548 km depending on the calculation method. These are good numbers considering that most of the driving took place on the motorway at 100 km/h. Fast charging from 15 to 80% is stated to take 37 minutes. The batteries are automatically preheated when you enter a charging station as a destination in the navigation system.

A good platform

Scenic E-Tech shares a platform with Nissan Ariya and the brand new one Nissan Leaf, and will also come in new electric models from Mitsubishi. Ampr Medium The platform is designed for bidirectional charging with both V2L and V2G.

The Renault Scenic only comes with front-wheel drive, while the Nissan Ariya, on the same platform, offers dual motor and 4WD at the same price. Since the platform is dimensioned for dual motor, should it be possible for Renault to offer 4WD for the Scenic as well?

Even though the wheelbase and exterior dimensions are roughly the same, the Scenic clearly wins in terms of space. Nissan also markets the Ariya as a Coupe CrossoverCompared to the Ariya, "my" Scenic is 400 kg lighter, can take 130 liters more luggage and has 100 km more range.

From MPV to SUV

The Renault Scenic first appeared in 1995 as a compact MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) – practical family cars with smart solutions. The new Scenic is aimed at the same buyer group, although the MPV character is no longer as prominent. Visually, it differs little from other high-built SUV models such as Toyota BZ4X, Volkswagen ID.4 og Ford Mustang Mach E to name a few. The space in the Scenic is actually very good and the seats are comfortable. The trunk holds a decent 545 liters with the rear seats intact. Of the aforementioned competitors, only Volkswagen has a similarly large trunk.

Prices

Renault Scenic E-Tech can be delivered with a smaller battery. 60 kWh gives a range of up to 430 km, costs 40.000 kroner less and weighs 95 kg less. I believe that long range is the key to a happy life with an electric car. Therefore, I think most people will have a better everyday life with the large battery of 87 kWh which can give up to 622 km of range. The car in this post has the large battery. In Techno version, the car costs 419.810 kroner, in the color diamond black fully delivered in Oslo. The equipment level includes equipment that Google Assistant with voice control and electric tailgate. The only thing I was missing in “my” equipment level was blind spot warning. The wide area around the C-pillar gives poor visibility diagonally to the rear. To get blind spot warning you need Pack, parking, driving and safety assistant to 11.900 kroner. I would also have set up a Harman Kardon plant for 9.900 kroner on the wish list.

AmpR Medium — The back seat of the Renault Scenic E-Tech Techno.

Facts Renault Scenic E-Tech

Weights and Measures
External dimensions - L, W, H: 447 x 186 x 157 cm
Wheelbase: 278 cm
Net weight: 1858 kg (without driver)
Payload: 508 kg
Number of seats: 5
Max trailer weight w/brakes: 1100 kg
– without brakes: 750 kg
Roof load: –

Drivetrain
Engine: Electric located at the front
Power: 220 HP
Torque: 300 Nm
Gearbox: 1-speed automatic
Front wheel drive

Performances
Top speed: 170 km/h
0-100: 7.9 seconds

Battery pack
Manufacturer: LG Energy Solution
Type: Lithium-ion NMC
Total capacity for use: 87 kWh
Heat pump
Preheating

Range and consumption
WLTP: 622 km (combined)
Stated consumption WLTP: 16,9 kWh/100km
Real consumption test: 16,0 kWh/100km

Cargo
Contacts: Type2 and CSS
On-board charger: 11kW
Charging time Type2, 11kW, 15-80%: 3h 0min.
Charging time CSS, 150kW, 15-80%: 37 min.
Preheating of the batteries: Yes

Luggage compartment
As 5-seater: 545 litres
As 2-seater: 1670 litres

Tires
Dimension: 205/55R19 97T XL
Type: Winter tires without studs
Brand: Continental VikingContact 7

Prices
Price: 419.810,- (87 kWh, Techno, paint surcharge)

About the car
Place of production: Douai, France
Color: Black
Equipment level: Techno
Owner: Volkswagen Møller Bilfinans
Model: 2025
Mileage: New
Source: Renault.no, Vegvesen.no

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How we test the cars

Renault 4 E-Tech carries on the legacy

Posted 22/10/2024 by Terje Bjørnstad

It has become quite common for new electric car models to inherit names from previous legendary models. Does the new Renault 4 E-Tech have the same characteristics that in its time made the Renault 4 one of Europe's most loved and popular cars?

If the EU is to achieve its goals with regard to zero emissions, it is dependent on producing more small cars. With Zoe For a long time, Renault was alone in producing long-range electric cars in the so-called B-class. Both the Renault 5 E-Tech and 4 E-Tech use the new one AmpR Small-the platform that Renault and Nissan have jointly developed. This is about electric cars for most people.

A retro project?

Comparing a brand new model to one launched over 60 years ago makes little sense. New Renault 4 E-Tech appears as a retro project where you create a design reminiscent of a previously popular model. Fiat 500 for sale og Mini has succeeded quite well in continuing established model names for new electric cars, while it is difficult to understand, for example, why Ford chose to call its electric SUV the Mustang. To pass on the model name Capri to a completely different type of car also seems wrong to us who experienced Capri as new cars. As for the Renault 4, there are still many who have fond memories of the cars, and who would resent finding the model name used on a completely different type of vehicle. They have no reason to.

Renault R4 at Ivey-sur-Seine, France – Photo Clément Choulot / DPPI

Renault 4 E-Tech trunk (Source: Renault)

In the same class as the Captur

In terms of size, the Renault 4 E-Tech can be compared to Captur, a high-built car based on Clio. Renault therefore offers Clio and Captur as fossil and hybrid cars in the B class, as well as Renault 5 and 4 which electrical options. There will be a total of 4 different models in the same class!

Briefly about the Renault 4 E-Tech

The largest battery pack for the Renault 4 E-Tech is 52 kWt and can provide a range of 400 km with a 150 hp engine. With 40 kWt batteries, the range is 300 km with a 122 hp engine. The batteries are located under the floor. The engine is front-mounted with front-wheel drive. Renault envisages that the target group is young families. It will be large enough for that, with the following measurements: Length 414 cm, width 180 cm and height 157 cm. The boot holds 420 liters and the car is approved to tow a 750 kg trailer.

Renault 4 E-Tech FL4WER POWER Concept (Source: Renault)

Decor that creates associations

There are several design similarities between the new and the old Renault 4. Many of the effects are created as purely decorative elements. They bring associations to the original model, but it should probably also be added that the had no decorum – no mockery. Everything had a function.

The grill that came in 1975 is now decoratively marked with LED lights. A small special case is a slanted icon at the back of each front screen, by the charging hatch. It illustrates a visible body joint the old cars had which followed the torpedo wall at the same angle as the windscreen. Furthermore, the ribs in the metal at the bottom of the side doors illustrate the powerful side protections that the GTL model had. The finish of the rear door is also done in the same spirit as the original. The rear trapezoidal side window is also a very important design element.

Renault brought 60s nostalgia into a youthful version of the R4

The original cars had a curb weight of just over 700 kg, about half that of a new car with a large battery pack. The engines were 845 cm3 and with 34 hp they accelerated quickly up to 50 km/h and could reach a top speed of 110-115 km/h under favorable conditions. The length was half a meter shorter and the width 30 cm narrower than the new model. The height, however, is the same. The size ratio between old and new models is unlikely to be perceived as a problem, as all new cars are now larger than they were in the 60s and 70s. The good interior height in the old cars gave a good sense of space. The boot also seemed spacious since the wheel suspension and suspension were hidden under the car. But originally the Renault 4 was only registered for 4 people.

I previously owned a 1977 Renault 4TL. It was four and a half years old when I bought it as a salvage item because it had run out of oil. The engine could not be saved, so I put in a newly overhauled replacement engine, changed wear parts and had new paint applied. And then I made the mistake many previous Renault 4 owners made, - I sold it.

The indeterminable factor

One factor that made the Renault 4 special was that it had something about it – an indefinable factor of charm or personality. It made me feel happy again every time I approached the car. Like meeting a pet. There was always a good atmosphere inside, especially when there were more of us. With a Renault 4, one could experience that driving pleasure is about much more than horse power and speed. You don't have to be particularly observant to note that charm and personality are no longer a theme in today's car fleet. I realize that young people are unlikely to have had their own experiences with "fours", but may discover that Renault has made a car that has a bit more personality than other SUVs and crossovers?

Pictures of the Renault 4 E-Tech

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Renault.no

Military vintage cars

Posted 15/10/2024 by Terje Bjørnstad

Military vehicles are for special interest. As a former wagon driver in the military, it brings back good memories when I come across a Gems, Kvarting or Valp. I myself started with a GMC 6×6 and ended up as a truck driver on a Scania hook truck. Here is a photo series of vintage French military vehicles.

Peugeot P4 "Geländewagen"

From 1981 to 2019, the "Geländewagen" was in active service in the French military. The French variant was built in France to the same specifications as the Austrian cars Steyr-Daimler-Puch, but equipped with engines and gearboxes from Peugeot. The first ones got engines from the Peugeot 504 and gearboxes from the Peugeot 604.

Citroën Traction Avant

This Citroen Traction Avant was part of the liberation celebrations.

Pre-war model that was useful during the war.

Before the war was Citroën Traction Avant used as police cars in several countries. Among other things, the police chamber in Oslo is said to have been delivered several Citroen 11 Sport in 1937. These cars were probably also in service during the war - and not least during the liberation. In France, commemorations are organized for D-Day and the liberation. The Citroen in the pictures above has been used in several local celebrations, including the liberation of Perpignan - but I don't know if it was actually in use as a service car at the historical times. Anyway, it's an authentic 1930s car with wartime headlights.

Renault R2087 Gôelette

After the war, it was decided that the French military should be equipped with vehicles produced in France. Heavy trucks were built by Citroen, while Renault was commissioned to build light trucks. From the 1950s, Renault R2087 delivered, based on Gôelette with 4×4 and approximately 1000 kg payload, 2.2 liter side-vented petrol engines taken from civilian Gôelette series. These cars were well suited to transporting personnel and material into the field.

ACMAT VT4

As of 2019, this vehicle was deployed as the successor to the G-Wagen-based Peugeot P4. VT4 – Tactic vehicle 4X4 - is a modified variant of American Ford Everest II produced at the ACMAT factory in Saint-Nazaire, France – a factory that previously produced trucks for Renault. The engines in the VT4 produce 220 hp and can run on degraded fuel qualities. The cars can withstand airdrops and accommodate 5 people - 4 in combat equipment.

See

bv202 — Tracked vehicles on the Ford D series

The French G-Class that existed until recently
Tactic Vehicle 4×4

New R5 in stock

Posted 29/05/2023 by Terje Bjørnstad

Alpine A290 — Renault 5 in front of the Roland Garros stadium

Renault Zoe is no longer offered in Norway. By the first half of 2024, it will disappear for good from shop windows across Europe. There is no direct successor.

It is Fabrice Camboliva, head of the Renault division, who has disclosed this to the British motoring press. It's no surprise that today's Zoe will disappear. The model has been upgraded several times, but the round lines from 2012 are no longer modern. With no Zoe 2 planned, EV buyers will have to find alternative cars in Renault's existing model range – currently the Mégane and Twingo. It could also just as easily be a car brand from Stellantis or China.

What about the new R5?

When Renault presented its new R5 concept in 2021, it was designated as the successor to the Renault Zoe. It still does, although it won't be launched until 2025, - and definitely not as Zoe 2. It still seems obvious that the R5 will fill the void left by Zoe.

Renault 5 concept in front of the stadium for the French Open 2023 (Photo: Renault)

Driving around disguised as a Clio

Renault is currently testing the new R5 technology where they have used the Clio model as a mule, for example for winter testing in Arvidsjaur, Sweden. The electric car platform CMF-BEV is shared by Nissan and Renault. The engine is stated to be 20 kg lighter than in the current Zoe and the battery pack will be both lighter and less voluminous than the Zoe, - and also provide more rigidity in the chassis and better sound dampening. Another factor that will strengthen the driving characteristics is the rear axle it inherits from the new Mégane E-Tech. Recently, Renault has given us several hints about the future, including recent images of the R5 linked to the stadium for the French Open 2023 where Renault is a Premium Partner.

Alpine A290 _β (beta)

Last weekend a large Alpine meeting was held at the factory in Dieppe, France, where more than 760 Alpine cars took part. Among other things, Alpine showed off its R5-based concept car Alpine A290 _β in daylight. This is an electric car created for rallying in line with other Alpine models. The car has a special seating arrangement with 3 seats where the driver sits forward in the middle. The seating arrangement is reminiscent of the McLaren F1.

From the Alpine meeting at the factory in Dieppe, France (Photo: Alpine)

A seating arrangement with 3 seats (Photo: Alpine)

The widow of Jean Rédélé, Michelle Rédélé, cast a spell over the event in the A290 (Photo; Alpine)

Several models on the same platform

Besides the new R5, Renault has shown off the crossover concept car 4ever which is based on the same platform as the R5. The head of the Renault group, Luca de Meo, mentions both R5 and 4L in connection with the new strategy they call "Renaulution". The 4L is a model that may be slightly smaller than the R5, but there have not yet been any drawings - only speculation. For 4L - or "quatrelle" as it is called around the Mediterranean, is a common term for all Renault 4s built throughout the ages.

Renault has - and has had - several iconic models. Renault 4 and 5 are probably examples of that. Some might argue that the Renault Zoe was also iconic. It was a pioneer in paving the way for electric cars for ordinary people. But Zoe thus disappears without any direct successor. Other iconic models that will also disappear at the same time as Zoe are Twingo and Espace. All three models introduced something new to the car market. Let's hope Renault doesn't replace them with boring models.

R5 looks promising!

See

Renault.no

Along the street in Céret

Posted 28/11/2022 by Terje Bjørnstad

Céret is one of many villages in the Catalan part of France where cobbled streets with picturesque stone houses still exist. At the beginning of the 1900th century, the city was a meeting place for artists. From our shepherd's hut, we can see into the old garden where Pablo Picasso and George Braque held merry parties 100 years ago - where Salvador Dali was also present.

Céret is located in a very rural setting at the foot of the Pyrenees - very close to the border with Spain. The nearest big city is Barcelona. The city is very far from Paris and the Côte d'Azur - in a positive way. It is not expensive to visit the restaurants, everyone speaks French and there are cars here that you cannot find in the Côte d'Azur. Now there is no longer a 2CV or Renault 4 on it each street corner in Céret. But since we are in an area where cars do not rust, there are still many cars such as Renault 5, Express, Citroen C15, Renault Twingo mk 1 and Peugeot 205 on the roads. These are cars that are almost extinct in other parts of Europe, but here they are common. In 5 years they may be gone for good.

Citroen

Citroen BX Millesime TD

The car in the main picture above belongs in Céret. It is a Millesime edition that appeared in recent years in production with a nice equipment package. The equipment level with, among other things, a rear spoiler is supplemented by yellow lights, integrated fog lights, black signs and a sunroof. The sunroof gives the car character. According to the owner, the panoramic roof is taken from a Twingo. The car has recently been fixed up after an injury and is often on the move in the city with the owner behind the wheel. If you are on Instagram, you can follow him under his username pali_kao.

Citroen Ami 9A and 2CV

I don't think the new electric Ami is sold in Norway. It is also not a big sales hit in our part of France. The car pictured is actually the only one I've seen in town. I think it's a shame that it is only made as moped car. If it had been built as a 4-wheel motorcycle (quadricycle lourd), it could be registered in vehicle class L7e. If the car could go faster than 45 km/h, you could follow normal traffic flow. Then I think it would be better received in the market. The reason I took a picture of it is because of the nice 2CV patina it has - just like the great 2CV on the right.

Lemon Xantia

I forgot to mention that the Citroen Xantia is one of the car models that is still current and drivable here. The car in the picture above belongs to the first series of Xantia. I have passed it several times and have noticed how great it is. For being BX's successor, Xantia seems less distinctive - more "mainstream". But if you get hold of a Xantia with Active Suspension, you have a wolf in sheep's clothing on the road.

Many Citroen 2CVs have been in continuous operation since they were new.

Renault

Renault Espace

Let's forget the 2CV and the R4s for a while. Although there are fewer of them, they still exist. I am particularly impressed by the 2CV and R4 that are still in daily use, like the one parked in front of us at one of the city's supermarkets. I would rather focus on the image of Espace from the first series. This is a model that was designed by Matra – a name that arouses enthusiasm in many. The straight, square lines with large glass surfaces were typical of 80s models. The Espace was not just a minibus, but an MPV with the possibility of converting the compartment into a saloon. I don't know the technology in the Espace 1, but I think the design is really tough - something that belongs among 80s icons like the Aston Martin Lagonda and the DeLorean DMC-12.

Renault 5 Express with the passenger car's front

Renault 5 on the loading platform of a Saviem Renault SG2 (3,5 ton truck from around 1980). I hope the Super 5 is headed for renovation and not the car scrap.

Renault 5 and Express

At the moment there are far too many Renault Expresses for me to take pictures of them all. I liked this one because it is clean (renovated) in the bodywork, got nice rims and equipped with the passenger car front from "Supercinq". Most Renault Express in the city are pure used cars with signs of use all over. À propos Super 5, I thought the motif of the Renault 5 on the loading platform of a Saviem Renault SG2 (3,5 tonnes) was really French and nostalgic. I hope the Super 5 is on its way renovation and not the scrap car.

Peugeot

Peugeot 304

I have the impression that few people take the time to restore a Peugeot 304 Berline. The ones I have seen have been in original good condition - probably also the car in the pictures. I have not seen it in the city before, but discovered it on a Sunday visit to the city close to where we live. I had time to admire the stylish Italian lines. They give associations to the Alfa Romeo Super Giulia. I wish Peugeot would find a way back to previous alignments instead of today's crisscrossing lines.

Peugeot 504 Pickup

The pickup model was put into production a few years before the production of the passenger car was phased out, and continued until the early 90s. If you see a 504 pickup, it doesn't have to be very old. I think most pick-up cars you see on the road today have undergone some form of renovation - like the car in the picture. I have seen it in several places in the city, including recently at the city's Peugeot workshop. Considering how solid the 504 Break was, there is reason to believe that this pickup will be able to serve for many years to come.

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Join us for a short tour of the city on the undersigned's bicycle. Céret is surrounded by fine cycle paths, whether you cycle to the beach or in the mountains. My road bike is only suitable on the road, but there are also off-road trails for those who dare.

Céret (Wikipedia)

The Five will return

Posted 22/02/2022 by Terje Bjørnstad

A year ago, Renault presented a prototype of what could be the successor to the Zoe. It was about a retro design of the legendary Renault 5. At the same time, words like "new wave" and "Renaulution" were used. This is music to the ears of those of us who like Renault.

Could be Zoe's successor

The French car manufacturer is going "all in" for the electrification of its model fleet, and has announced that all European models will run on electricity by 2030. It will probably be the next Zoe that will be the debut model for the new wave. It's hardly a coincidence, as Zoe represented a new wave back then the was launched in 2012.

Modern lines and retro design

In terms of design, the new Renault 5 is interesting. Firstly, because it shows modern, straight lines and smooth surfaces like the Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6. Secondly, because it brings forward design elements from previous Renault models. Many of today's car models lack distinctive features. Like several other car brands, Renault needs to strengthen its brand identity. They can succeed in this if "Renaulution" involves reviving fond memories of old models.

Zoe was a breath of fresh air

The Zoe has been an important model for Renault, not just in terms of sales. It has also put Renault on the map as a leading manufacturer of electric cars. In 2021, the Zoe was France's second best-selling electric car with 23 copies, only narrowly beaten by the Tesla Model 573. The Renault Zoe has previously been France's best-selling electric car for several years. Compared to Norway, France is still in the starting pit for electrification. There are very few electric cars outside the big cities. The launch of Zoe almost ten years ago was accompanied by a massive domestic advertising campaign. It was not only the electric car properties that were highlighted, but also the car's bowl-like appearance. Thus, the Zoe campaign probably helped to promote other models from Renault as well.

Well received

The prototype's fresh, straight lines represent a style we will see more of in the near future. Today's contemporary car design with fluttering, curved lines, preferably layer upon layer - as the Clio, Megane, Captur and Kadjar have - is on the way out - at least in electric car form. Enter models such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 and Tesla Cybertruck. The purpose of prototypes such as the Renault 5 is to test how the public reacts to the new forms. So far, the new lines have been well received. The design was awarded Concept car of the year in September last year by a jury consisting of leading car designers. In January this year, the new Renault 5 was voted the most beautiful concept car of the year by the public International Automobile Festival In Paris.

Will Renault go for a new five?

It remains to be seen what the Zoe's successor will look like when it goes on sale in 2024. Today's prototype highlights creative and fancy LED lighting, things that fascinate at shows but which, wisely, often don't carry over into production. The press release from the introduction also highlights new IT functions in line with Tesla's solutions. The Renault 5 will use Renault-Nissan's joint platform for battery-drive systems in the B segment (CMF-B EV). But even if everything looks promising for the new Renault 5 now one year after its introduction, the future will depend on what is decided in the boardrooms. One conceivable outcome could be that Renault chooses to stop the project, or produce the Renault 5 only in a limited edition - as Stellantis chose for the Opel Manta GSe ElektroMOD. In that case, Zoe may be succeeded by a more anonymous model originating from the current model programme.

Renault 5 celebrates 50 years this year

The Renault 5 appeared in 1972 as a new car class, today referred to as the B-class. The 1972 model was 365 cm long with one wheel in each corner. Today's Clio is 404 cm long. When Renault's prototype is shown together with the "ur-femmern", it is clear that the prototype is a much larger car. In terms of appearance, it is basically more similar to the second generation of the Renault 5 – the one that was eventually called the "super five". These cars were produced until 1996 and are still frequent features on French roads. The latest model series with lacquered grill and smooth surfaces has withstood the age very well.

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60 years – A tribute to Renault 4

Posted 24/05/2021 by Terje Bjørnstad

Renault's "La Quatrelle" (4L) was presented for the first time at the Paris show in 1961. At Renault, the celebrations have already begun, even though the car was only presented in September of that year.

Toutes Parisiennes

Two days ago, a new album was released, called "Toutes Parisiennes", which pays tribute to the Renault 4 - and the special "Parisienne" edition of the Renault 4 that came in 1963. The title refers both to the car - and to all "Parisiennes" - i.e. Women from Paris. The album is one of several posts within French culture and lifestyle that aim to mark the Renault 4's 60th birthday. The album Toutes Parisiennes contains hits from the period -60s and 70s, sung by current singers - in great sound quality. When it comes to La Quatrelle, one can allow oneself to be a little too Francophile on the music front. Besides, you have to be very old to remember French songs like Dalida – Love in Portofino, Joe Dassin – À toi og France Gall – Laisse tomber les filles. These have therefore been recorded in a new format.

The album "Toutes Parisiennes" is published by the lifestyle magazine IDEAT on 21 May. You can listen on Spotify (best sound quality), Apple Music or on YouTube by clicking the link below.

Toutes Parisiennes on YouTube

"A picture, a memory, a scent, a kiss, a moment of happiness, the taste of freedom, of life, of happy people".

The words above are used by the French lifestyle magazine to recreate memories that we all have of the Renault 4. When I think of my own time in the R4, it might not be too far from the truth. Because who doesn't remember the Renault 4? Maybe the car that the teacher at school had, the postman, or someone in the family or neighborhood? Perhaps it was the car you used to explore life and the world yourself?

Share your Renault 4 stories!

When the Renault 4 beat the Volvo PV

Anders de Lange knows the Renault 4 very well and has fond memories of it. His father bought his first in 1964. Anders PO raced with it. And there was a prize! The Volvo PV guys had to look beaten. The outrage was great at having been beaten by that "tin box"!

Anders manages the site Bilhistorie.no and has written a lot about cars and car history. He shares photos from his archive from when the cars were popular.

Renault 4 – a versatile Frenchman

Many have memories of experiences with the Renault 4. Many have owned one, and perhaps exchanged it for a car that was bigger and stronger. If you have a good story or memories or photos with the Renault 4, share it here on Terje's cars! Use the comment field for short posts, or the contact page (click here) - and if you have pictures, you can send them to this email address: post@terjebjornstad.com