Renault has revived its iconic 17 coupé as an all-electric restomod. Called the R17, the one-off machine was unveiled on September 4, 2024 at Renault’s Maison5 experience centre in central Paris.
The striking retrofuturist machine, created in collaboration with French designer Ora Ïto, is touted as a “sculptural retake” of the 17 sports coupé that debuted in 1971. Renault plans to showcase the R17 at the Chantilly Arts et Elegance Concours from September12-15, before displaying it at the Paris Motor Show from October 14-20.
The biggest departure from the original is the 270bhp electric powertrain
“Revisiting an iconic vehicle like Renault 17 was a particularly exciting challenge,” Ïto said. “Working alongside Renault, I was able to articulate my artistic vision to create a sculpture in my own image.”
Despite its cutting-edge design, the car is underpinned by an original Renault 17 monocoque structure, along with the doors, windows, glazing, seals and underbody. The dimensions differ slightly, with the body widened by 17cm to improve roadholding. Extended arches house redesigned wheels that resemble vinyl records. The frontal design features four rectangular headlights, while the rear boasts a futuristic light bar. A 1970s-inspired Galactic Brown hue completes the exterior.
The interior reinterprets ’70s design cues with modern materials and technology. Driver displays pay homage to the original instrument binnacles while offering increased functionality, complemented by a modern infotainment screen in the centre console. Alloy trim features throughout, and redesigned seats echo the original car’s ‘petal’ structure, with interior design-inspired upholstery: heathered Merino wool satin in brown and plush, long-fibre wool bouclé in beige.
The biggest departure from the original is the 270bhp electric powertrain, replacing the anaemic four cylinders of the classic 17. The R17 is expected to be rear-wheel drive, with its electric motor mounted to the rear axle, whereas the 17 favoured a more traditional front-engined, front-wheel-drive layout. A carbonfibre monocoque chassis helps keep weight to around 1400kg.
Renault has confirmed the R17 will remain a standalone vehicle rather than a forerunner for production. This may surprise some, given the overwhelmingly positive reaction to the new Renault 5, reborn as an EV hatchback earlier this year.
