The Renault 4 returns!

Hatchback that served generations of French families from the ’60s into the ’90s will be revived as the 4Ever EV. By Jake Groves.

Insider / Future scoop / Illustration: Andrei Avarvarii

Secrets of the reborn Renault 4

1 BACK TO THE FUTURE

Renault is looking forward as well as back when it comes to its new-generation EVs. While the VW ID.3-rivalling Megane E-Tech Electric is a thoroughly modern car, the planned 5 EV and the new 4Ever are distinctly retro in their design, aiming to draw in those who fondly remember what the originals looked like.

2 LOFTY GOALS

Leaked patent images of the new Renault 4 show a crossover-like shape with a tall rear end, while the ‘face’ that comprises the headlights and grille-like panel has been compared to the Honda E’s. Chunky design cues and similar wheels to the Renault 5’s are expected, too.

3 MAKING IT COUNT

Renault’s agonising over costs and weight to make its new EVs competitive. The new CMF-BEV platform that’ll underpin the 4Ever shares 50 per cent of its components with the CMF-B architecture used by the current Clio, with Renault claiming it’s around 33 per cent cheaper to make than the Zoe’s platform.

4 BIG THING, TINY PACKAGE

Renault’s new power unit houses the e-motor and power electronics in one small package. Renault says it’s the size of the Clio’s fuel tank, fed by lithium-ion batteries in the floor. Expect the 4Ever to be capable of around 250 miles, thanks in large part to those weight savings.

Luca De Meo CEO, Renault Group

‘We’ve taken the iconic Renault 5 and given it an electric twist. But, as well as the 5 EV, we will revive another major star. Internally, we’ve named it 4Ever to signify our intention to make it an instant classic. This is our nouvelle vague (new wave); an intent to bring modernity into the conversation.’

Factfile

• POWERTRAIN 52kWh battery, single e-motor, 250-mile range (est)
• CHASSIS Steel and aluminium monocoque
• DUE 2025