Renault has just lifted the curtain on its latest electric marvel, the R4 E-Tech SUV, and it’s already turning heads. This new model pays homage to the iconic 1960s Renault 4L but brings a modern twist that’s set to shake up the EV scene. With a price tag under €30,000, Renault is making a bold statement about affordable electric mobility.
A Modern Take on a Classic Icon
Remember the charming Renault 4L from the swinging sixties? Well, it’s back, but not as you knew it.
This time around, the R4 E-Tech is all about blending nostalgia with innovation. Sharing more than two-thirds of its parts with the upcoming Renault 5, it uses the AmpR small platform to keep costs in check. This means you get cutting-edge tech without the hefty price tag.
Impressive Specs at an Affordable Price
So, what’s under the hood—or rather, the floor?
- Entry-Level Model: Comes with a 90kW electric motor and a 40kWh battery, offering a 300km range.
- Top-of-the-Line Version: Packs a 110kW motor with a 52kWh battery, pushing the range to 400km.
Not too shabby for a car that’s priced below €30,000, right? Plus, the top version can zip from 0 to 100km/h in just 8.5 seconds and hits a top speed of 150km/h.
Competitive Pricing Amid Market Challenges
It’s no secret that the EV market has been a rollercoaster lately.
Automakers are banking on lower prices to boost demand. Renault’s move to offer the R4 E-Tech at such an attractive price could be a game-changer. Thierry Koskas from Stellantis’s Citroen brand hinted that we might be nearing a tipping point for EV demand.
Other players like Citroen are also showcasing affordable models at the Paris auto show. The competition is heating up, and consumers stand to benefit the most.
Renault’s Vision for the Future
Renault CEO Luca de Meo seems pretty optimistic.
He mentioned that during a recent event in France, EV sales accounted for 35% to 40% of their total product mix. That’s a significant chunk, showing that the market is indeed warming up to electric vehicles. Renault’s strategy of offering quality EVs at accessible prices might just pay off.
