Renault’s future plan: Classics, icons, and entirely new models
Image: Renault (illustrative)
Renault is working on redesigning key model lines such as the Clio and Renault 5. According to brand chief Fabrice Cambolive, the French company’s main goal at present is to introduce entirely new models into its existing portfolio. The firm aims for a balanced structure that will consist of one-third “iconic vehicles” like the renewed versions of the Renault 4 and 5 as well as the Twingo, one-third established classics such as the Clio and Scenic, and one-third purely new designs.
The manufacturer has focused in recent years on retro-inspired electric cars such as the Renault 4, 5, and Twingo, along with new SUVs, achieving success with them. However, Cambolive emphasized in a conversation with Autocar that the portfolio should not be filled solely with retro models. Each model must fit into the modern era. He explained, “You can go retro if you have a purpose, but without one, you will fail.”
In developing the successor to the Clio, Renault is focusing on the B-segment (compact cars) without SUV characteristics. The brand has so far considered this market segment unoccupied. The new Clio is not intended to be designed in a retro style but rather to serve as a continuation of an established model line. Details regarding the powertrain remain unknown, though a purely electric version is likely at launch.
Next platform for electric vehicles and range extenders
The next-generation platform is designed to support both all-electric drives and so-called range extenders. The latter are electric vehicles equipped with a compact combustion engine that functions exclusively as a power generator to charge the battery. Renault aims to achieve 100% electrification by 2030, with half of its fleet consisting of pure electric vehicles.
A second generation for the new all-electric Renault 5 is planned, according to the company’s CEO. Cambolive said, “I don’t know if we’ll reinvent the R5 in five years, but we will try to bring something to market that is groundbreaking in terms of the car’s appeal.” The success factors of the current model are currently being analyzed in detail.
An upcoming update for the Renault 5 is expected to include more powerful engines and a larger battery. Developers have identified weaknesses in this popular electric compact car. Cambolive noted that these issues were detected before customers reported them. The goal is not merely to address shortcomings but to create additional value.
According to Cambolive, the success of the Renault 5 lies in not making any compromises. Despite internal and external pressures to adopt hybrid engines, the company stuck to the all-electric concept. The aim is to emphasize driving pleasure and practicality throughout its entire lifecycle.
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Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with professional experience in the automotive industry and finance sector. Since 2011, he has been covering electric vehicles, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions for ecomento.de. Learn more.
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