FYI: Renault and French Designer Ora Ito Reimagine the Classic Renault 17 with a Modern Electric Twist
Renault and the avant-garde French designer Ora Ito have taken a nostalgic trip back to the 1970s, giving the classic Renault 17 a futuristic makeover. This iconic two-door coupe, previously known for its modest 1.6-liter gas engine, has now been reborn with a potent all-electric powertrain.
The R17 Electric Restomod: A Symbiosis of Retro and Modern Design
Debuted as the R17 electric restomod, this new iteration seamlessly fuses the charm of the original Renault 17 with contemporary engineering and design aesthetics. The partnership between Renault and Ora Ito marks the latest in a series of collaborations aimed at bringing a modern twist to the brand’s timeless models. The electric restomod retains the captivating retro look with a refined brown paint job and incorporates LED lights reminiscent of the classic double round headlights.
Enhanced Performance and Modern Technology
Gone are the days of the original car’s front-mounted 1.6-liter gas engine. In its place, the R17 electric restomod now boasts a rear-mounted motor that delivers an impressive 270 horsepower. While Renault has kept the specifics of the battery capacity under wraps, the vehicle is said to offer an estimated range of 249 miles on a full charge, making it as practical as it is powerful.
Design Elements: Staying True to Heritage
Ora Ito’s vision for the R17 was to envelop it in a "second skin," blending simplicity with complexity to create a visually appealing and dynamic design. The result is a vehicle that’s about seven inches wider than its predecessor and features prominent flared wheel arches, wider and taller wheels, and subtle nods to the original car’s C-pillar louvers.
In the cabin, the traditional gauge cluster has been replaced by four individual screens, positioned behind a square-ish two-spoke steering wheel that pays homage to the car’s analog roots. Additionally, a central infotainment screen has been perfectly integrated into the center console, taking the spot where the old clock used to be.
A Unique Vision for the Auto World
While Hyundai has hinted at bringing its retro-inspired N Vision 74 hydrogen car into production, Renault’s R17 electric restomod will remain a one-off masterpiece. Designed to showcase the brand’s innovative spirit, this project perfectly balances modern electric performance with the nostalgic allure that made the original Renault 17 a favorite.
Conclusion
Renault’s collaboration with Ora Ito to reimagine the classic Renault 17 stands as a testament to blending past and future. By imbuing the 1970s coupe with contemporary electric technology and high-end design, they’ve created a unique piece of automotive art that remains true to its roots while pointing towards an electrifying future.
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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
