Renault revives the 70s with one-off R17 Electric Restomod

Renault has unveiled a new concept car that reimagines a classic from its past: the Renault R17 Electric Restomod. Based on the sporty Renault 17 coupé from the 1970s, this modernized electric version was developed in collaboration with French designer Ora Ito. The R17 Electric Restomod is to remain a one-off and will make its public debut at the Paris Motor Show.

Renault continues reviving classic models with a modern twist, as seen with the electric R5, the upcoming R4, and the new Twingo. Now, with the R17 Electric Restomod, the automaker hints at a potential future for the R17 line.

The original Renault 17 launched in 1971 as a four-seater coupé with a large hatchback, a front-wheel-drive layout, and engines ranging from 90 to 108 horsepower. About 92,000 units were produced until the model was discontinued in 1979. And, of course, an electric driveline was a far cry in those days.

A nod to the past, a glimpse of the future

That’s all changed in the R17 Electric Restomod, where the combustion engine is replaced by a 270-horsepower electric motor mounted on the rear axle. The chassis is crafted from carbon fiber, keeping the electric coupé’s weight under 1,400 kilograms—slightly heavier than the original R17.

Design-wise, the R17 Electric Restomod stays true to its predecessor’s lines but has been widened by 17 centimeters for improved road handling. The classic dual round headlights have been replaced with slim, yellow-tinted LED lights, while the grille adapts the shape of the Renault rhombus with slanted slats.

The restomod retains the classic windows and doors, while all other elements have been modernized. A sleek LED light strip spans the rear, mirroring the front’s grille pattern. The C-pillar features vent slats, similar to the original, and the car sits on large, disc-style alloy wheels.

Inside, the reborn R17 embraces its retro roots with four standalone instrument pods featuring retro-style, yet digital, dials. The two-spoke steering wheel is flat on all sides (a squircle form), and a central display—likely a touchscreen—sits in the center console. Wood-effect trims brushed aluminum accents, and seats upholstered in Merino wool and brown fabric complete the retro-chic look.

Showstopper for Paris Motorshow

Renault describes the R17 Electric Restomod as a vehicle that “reflects the history and integrity of the Renault 17 while combining the classic charm of the original with today’s technologies and materials.”

Renault has no production plans for the R17; the concept hints at the brand’s willingness to explore new electric avenues and serves as a showstopper for the brand’s stand at the upcoming Paris Motor Show.

Renault isn’t the only car brand teleporting itself to its heydays. During the Hyundai’s Investor Day presentation, a PowerPoint slide revealed that the South Korean carmaker is bringing the Vision N47 to its assembly halls.

Although a hydrogen driveline is also suggested, this high-performance EV is inspired by the 1974 Pony Coupé, a rival to the Renault R17. Yes, the seventies are alive and kicking in the minds of the automotive leaders.