Renault 5 Turbo 3E: A Sneak Peek at the World’s First Electric Mini-Supercar
Three years after its initial concept launch at the Paris Motorshow in 2022, the highly anticipated Renault 5 Turbo 3E has finally made its debut at a brand-hosted event near Renault HQ in Paris. This electric reboot of the iconic Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2 has generated quite the buzz, with many speculating that it could sell out even before the interior is revealed. The unveiling of the hot hatch’s exterior has given enthusiasts a glimpse of what to expect from this hyper-hatchback, and the initial impressions are nothing short of impressive.
Design and Performance: A Blend of Heritage and Innovation
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E pays homage to its iconic namesake, drawing inspiration from the 1982 Renault 5 Turbo rally model. The striking yellow and black livery is a nod to the rally heritage of the original Turbo, while incorporating modern design elements from the Renault 5 E-Tech electric. The compact hot-hatch features prominent bumper and rear wing extensions, giving it a distinctive and aggressive look that sets it apart from traditional electric vehicles.
Unlike its predecessor, the Turbo 5 3E is rear-wheel drive and built on a new platform that optimizes performance. With rear in-wheel motors delivering 540hp to the car’s 20-inch wheels, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E boasts impressive specs that rival supercars like the Ferrari Roma and McLaren Artura. The car accelerates from 0 to 60mph in just 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 168 mph, making it a formidable contender in the electric vehicle market.
Charging and Customization: Tailored for Enthusiasts
Renault has equipped the 5 Turbo 3E with a lightweight carbon fiber body and a high-performance electric architecture that supports fast charging. The car is capable of DC fast charging up to 350 kW, allowing it to charge from 15 to 80 percent in just 15 minutes with the right charger. This, combined with an 800-volt architecture, ensures that the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is not only powerful but also practical for everyday use.
While details of the interior remain a mystery, Renault has hinted at a personalized experience for buyers. The interior is expected to feature bucket seats, six-point harnesses, and a rally-style vertical handbrake, reflecting the car’s performance-oriented design. Buyers will have the opportunity to work with Renault’s designers to customize the interior to their preferences, creating a unique and personalized driving experience.
Limited Availability and Pricing: A Collector’s Dream
Despite its anticipated 2027 launch, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is already generating excitement among enthusiasts. Pre-orders are set to open in the coming weeks, with only 1,980 individually numbered units available—a tribute to the year the original Turbo was released. While official pricing has yet to be announced, estimates suggest a starting price of around £130,000 (approximately $168,000), with customization options potentially pushing the price to £200,000 ($260,000) or more.
Renault’s decision to limit production to 1,980 units not only adds exclusivity to the Renault 5 Turbo 3E but also positions it as a collector’s item. With the potential to generate over $500 million in revenue if all units are sold, the “mini-supercar” is poised to make a significant impact on the electric vehicle market. As buyers eagerly await the opportunity to secure their own Renault 5 Turbo 3E, the anticipation continues to build for this groundbreaking electric vehicle.
Finish the meaning of the sentence: The anticipation continues to build for this groundbreaking electric vehicle as enthusiasts eagerly await the opportunity to secure their own Renault 5 Turbo 3E.
