Renault is injecting some serious fun into the electric vehicle space. Before the production-ready Renault 5 EV hits the streets, the brand’s design team has gotten creative, unveiling the R5 Turbo 3E, a striking electric concept car. This bewinged machine made its debut at the 2022 Paris Motor Show.
This all-electric concept car is designed specifically for drifting on the track, a bold statement from Renault designed to show that EVs aren’t just about efficiency; they can be exhilarating too. The R5 Turbo 3E boasts a 42kWh battery pack paired with a single electric motor, generating a potent 375bhp and a hefty 516lb ft of torque, all channeled to the rear wheels.
This setup allows the 3E to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 124 mph. Beyond its impressive performance figures, Renault highlights the car’s extreme drift capabilities, touting a steering angle exceeding 50 degrees. The design even includes multiple mounting points for cameras, perfect for capturing the car’s dynamic abilities.
With its powerful battery pack and the promise of a thrilling driving experience, Renault says the 3E is built for gymkhana events. While its aesthetics evoke a cyberpunk aesthetic, the car still retains a familiar connection to the original Renault 5, even if the resemblance is stylized. Design elements such as the generous vents in the bumper provide airflow and downforce, while the vibrant pink, yellow, and blue lighting pays homage to the aesthetics of Grand Theft Auto: Vice City.
The R5 Turbo 3E also features several drive modes inspired by video games. Drivers initiate the experience with a ‘Free Play’ button, and can then select from modes like Turbo, Track Invader, and Donut to enjoy drifting, track driving, and 360-degree spins, respectively.
Adding a modern twist, Renault is also set to release a collection of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) based on the car. Aside from its public appearances at the Chantilly Arts & Elegance contest and the Paris Motor Show, this move adds a digital dimension to the already exciting concept.
