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Renault’s new R17 Electric Restomod, developed in collaboration with avant-garde designer Ora Ïto, reinterprets the 1970s Renault 17 coupe as an electric masterpiece. Featuring a carbon fiber chassis, this modern version preserves the iconic look of the original while delivering updated power and design. The R17 Electric Restomod will make its debut at the Paris Motor Show in October, showcasing Renault’s commitment to both heritage and innovation.
Under its hood, the R17 Restomod houses a 270-horsepower electric motor on the rear axle, achieving a balance between performance and efficiency with a 400-kilometer range on a single charge. The carbon chassis compensates for the battery's weight, keeping the car’s total weight at just 1.4 tons. Ora Ïto has adapted the classic design, introducing aerodynamic elements like a wider body (+17 cm) and flush, streamlined lines for enhanced stability. The car’s exterior color, Galactic Brown, is a custom shade for this concept, echoing the retro-futuristic spirit Renault aimed to capture.
Inside, the design respects the original’s aesthetics but incorporates modern technology. Rectangular “wells” in the dashboard hold small geometric screens inspired by the original dials, and a central display replaces the original radio slot. The upholstery uses premium materials, blending shades of beige and brown in Merino wool and lightweight wool bouclé fabrics. Ora Ïto describes his design process as "simplexity," a philosophy combining simplicity with complexity, creating a fluid look that respects the past while presenting a new, futuristic aesthetic.
This project is Renault’s fourth restomod collaboration since 2021, following the reinvented Renault 4, 5, and Twingo models, each created with renowned designers. With the R17 Electric Restomod, Renault and Ora Ïto successfully merge the timeless appeal of the original with cutting-edge features, paying tribute to the brand's legacy while setting new design benchmarks.
