New edition of the Renault R17 as a study

Studies have an essential function: they are intended to generate attention, in the case of nostalgic shapes, ideally linked to memories. Now and again, treasures are pulled out of the company's history that were not an overwhelming success at the time. The Renault R17 undoubtedly belongs in this category. Nevertheless, it was the inspiration for the "R17 electric restomod x Ora Ïto" show car, which will be on display at Maison5 in Paris until September 11. The first pictures and key data are already available, but Renault has deliberately left the most exciting question unanswered.

More than twice as much power as the original

The original had front-wheel drive and four-cylinder engines delivering between 66 and 79 kW. Unsurprisingly, the study relies on a battery-electric drive system that is expected to deliver 199 kW. Renault speaks of a carbon-fiber chassis, with which the car should weigh only 1.4 tons. Renault is not giving any details about the battery.

At the moment, Renault is focusing on emphasizing the design proximity between the original and the study. Both are indeed very similar in their basic shape, although the new R17 is 17 cm wider. The cabin, doors, windows, glazing, seals and underbody are even said to be identical. In the interior, the instrument cluster is divided into four small displays, which complement a slightly larger screen low down in the center console.

Series production in sight?

The really exciting question with studies is how close they are to series production. In the case of the R17, Renault is keeping quiet about this. The following therefore remains explicitly speculation: the new R5 was also initially a study, which then went into series production with only minor changes. It could be that Renault is actually preparing a new edition of the R17. The fact that coupes do not currently promise large numbers speaks against this. In favor of this is the fact that the details of the study appear so little exaggerated that one can easily imagine series production in the near future. However, a new R17 would undoubtedly be good for the diversity of the range.

(mfz)