Renault 5 Turbo 3E: A Retro-Inspired Electric Hot Hatch with Supercar Ambitions
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Renault has revealed the 5 Turbo 3E, a contemporary, all-electric tribute to its classic 1980s hot hatch, the Renault 5 Turbo. A limited-production model that brings nostalgic design elements together with advanced electric performance, it's a new kind of player in the high-performance EV market.
Performance and Engineering
The 5 Turbo 3E is driven by twin rear-mounted electric motors producing a cumulative output of 536 horsepower and an incredible 3,540 lb-ft (4,800 Nm) of torque. This powertrain enables the car to accelerate 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in about three seconds, with an 168 mph (270 km/h) top speed.
A 70-kWh battery gives an estimated range of as much as 249 miles (400 km) on the WLTP test cycle. The car's 800-volt architecture enables ultra-fast charging at a maximum of 350 kW, with a 15-80% charge in 15 minutes.
Design and Customization
Inspired by its rally DNA, the 5 Turbo 3E sports a body-width enlargement, ferocious aerodynamics, and styling inspired by retro-looks found in the iconic Renault 5 Turbo. Inside, there's a minimalist attitude towards creating driver immersion and powertrain orientation. Renault allows plenty of custom possibilities in the forms of special livery options and trim designs that permit customers to highly personalize their cars.
Production and Availability
Renault will manufacture just 1,980 examples of the 5 Turbo 3E, a reference to the year when the original was launched. The car will be sold in certain markets, such as Europe, the Middle East, Japan, and Australia. Potential customers have to undergo a reservation process of dealer choice and discussion with Renault designers to seal their car specs.
Pricing
The 5 Turbo 3E has a starting price of £135,000 (some $180,000), which makes it the priciest Renault-branded car yet. This price does not include option or customization, which can drive the final price up sharply. For all its price tag, the 5 Turbo 3E's performance figures and uniqueness are on par with those of the established supercars.
