No SUVs here: Renault reinvents the iconic 1984 minivan as an electric car with 4.7 meters in length and a futuristic design

06/10/2026 16:30

Updated to

06/10/2026 16:30

Renault continues to draw on some of its most iconic models from history to develop its next generation of vehicles. After reviving names and aesthetic elements from classics like the Renault 4 and Renault 5, the French brand has now turned its attention to one of the cars that completely transformed its lineup in the 1980s, namely the Renault Espace.

The result is the new Renault E-Space Concept, a prototype that will be fully unveiled on October 12th, just before the opening of the Paris Motor Show. So far, Renault has only shared a few initial images, enough to reveal a design directly inspired by the original Espace introduced in 1984.

The 1984 Renault Espace returns as a futuristic prototype

Renault describes the E-Space Concept as a modern reinterpretation of the spirit of the original Espace. That model was known for its monovolume body design that emphasized interior space and versatility, along with a very distinctive silhouette that eventually became one of the model’s hallmarks.

The new prototype restores some of those proportions exactly. Its profile stands out, featuring a very short front end and a huge windshield that is significantly tilted and visually extends toward the roof. The body maintains a minivan silhouette, thus moving away from the SUV approach adopted by the current production Renault Espace.

There is also a clear reference to the 1984 model in the glass surface. Renault has designed large side windows that visually enclose the cabin, while the front pillar practically merges with the windshield. The goal is to recreate that sense of brightness and spaciousness that characterized the early generations of this French minivan.

Renault will reveal all its secrets on October 12

The preview images also show a much more futuristic interpretation of that design. The front features an extremely thin illuminated badge and a practically closed surface, while the wheel arches have very distinct shapes and the huge tires emphasize its prototype status.

So far, Renault has not provided specific dimensions beyond stating it will be around 4.7 meters long. It has also not discussed technical specifications or details about its propulsion system (only that it will be 100% electric). The company has not confirmed whether the E-Space Concept will directly evolve into a future production model. It is keeping the main details for its full unveiling on October 12th.

Renault will also showcase other truly impressive cars

But the eye-catching Renault E-Space Concept won’t be the only model the French brand will display at the Paris Motor Show. The company will present new cars in prototype form, as well as some that will enter production soon.

One of these recent models is the new Renault Twingo, which, although already available in Spain, will now feature a glass roof that adds even more light to the interior. But this won’t be the only one. The company will also showcase prototypes such as the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, the Renault 8 Gordini Concept, and the Renault 4 JP4X4 Concept. As we’ve already mentioned, all these new models will be unveiled starting from October 12th at the Paris Motor Show.