Renault Unveils Electric R17 Restomod with Retro-Futuristic Design

While the original Renault 17 might not be a universally revered classic, that’s hardly the point. Thanks to the collaboration with French designer Ora Ïto, Renault has turned the 1970s-era coupe into something fresh, futuristic, and undeniably striking. The concept car, wrapped in carbon fiber and finished in an elegant "Galactic Brown," blends vintage cues with modern electric performance.

The R17 Electric Restomod is more than just a visual throwback it’s an homage to an era when sharp-edged coupes were in vogue. With its wider stance, lowered suspension, and contemporary styling, it perfectly balances the charm of the past with the sophistication of today’s automotive design.

A Radical Restomod for the Future

Renault's vision for this restomod is clear: blend iconic design elements with cutting-edge technology. According to Ora Ïto, the goal was to "teleport" the Renault 17 into the future while retaining its distinctive features. The restomod shares components with its predecessor, such as the doors and underbody, but has been thoroughly modernized with a wider frame and a much lower stance.

However, the most significant upgrade is under the hood. The original Renault 17 was powered by a modest four-cylinder petrol engine, but the restored version boasts a 270hp electric motor mounted on the rear axle. While Renault hasn’t disclosed specific battery details, the car is expected to deliver an impressive range of around 250 miles on a single charge. At a reported curb weight of 1,400 kg, it promises a significantly faster and more agile driving experience than its predecessor.

A Concept That Captures the Imagination

Though Renault has no plans to mass-produce the R17 Electric Restomod, the concept is generating buzz, particularly with its sleek and innovative interior design. The cabin showcases a "streamlined dashboard, new fabrics, revived door panels, and redesigned cushions," all aimed at combining retro charm with modern luxury. Featuring luxe materials like "chine brown satin Merino wool" and "bouclé wool as soft as a cloud," the interior is as eye-catching as the exterior.

For those lucky enough to attend the Paris Motor Show next month, the R17 Electric Restomod will be on display at Renault's stand. While it may be overshadowed by the upcoming Renault 4 revival, there’s no doubt this striking coupe will turn heads, especially among those with a fondness for the brand's history.

Could the R17's Comeback Spark a Coupe Revival?

Although Renault has made it clear the R17 Electric Restomod won’t be hitting showrooms anytime soon, the concept taps into the growing interest in retro-inspired electric vehicles. With the market for two-door coupes dwindling, it's unlikely that Renault will bring back a production version of the R17. But the enthusiasm generated by this concept shows that there’s still plenty of love for vintage-inspired designs, especially when they’re powered by clean, modern technology.

As Renault continues to reimagine its past with a forward-thinking approach, we can’t help but wonder if we could see more two-door coupes in the future. For now, we’ll keep our fingers crossed.

Renault's R17 Electric Restomod x Ora Ïto is a striking blend of past and future, proving that nostalgia can be a powerful tool when paired with modern innovation. While the market for coupes may be small, this concept car demonstrates that there’s still a place for bold, retro-futuristic designs in today’s automotive landscape.