Renault’s Stunning 17 Concept: A Look Back and a Move Forward
Renault recently unveiled the eye-catching 17 Electric Restomod, a modern reinterpretation of a vintage 1970s coupe. This striking concept car boasts a sleek new design, a cutting-edge carbonfibre chassis, and a powerful 270bhp rear-mounted electric motor. However, despite speculation about its potential for production, Renault has confirmed that the 17 will remain a concept vehicle.
Renault Group’s design chief, Laurens van den Acker, described the 17 concept as a “brand kicker” designed to generate buzz and capture the attention of design-savvy audiences. He compared the 17 to previous concept cars like the Twingo and the 4, emphasizing that these creations are more about making a statement than entering production.
Van den Acker acknowledged that not all of Renault’s historic models have the same appeal as their recent revivals, such as the new 4, 5, and Twingo. He pointed out that while some models, like the 17, may have had a short lifespan and limited popularity, others, like the avant-garde Avantime from the 2000s, hold a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts but may not be resurrected.
The design boss also hinted that the chances of reviving older models like the Safrane saloon are slim, as the focus remains on moving away from retro designs and embracing new directions in automotive design. While there may be interest in bringing back certain recent models, Renault is selective about which vehicles to bring back to the market.
Overall, Renault’s decision to keep the 17 concept as a showpiece highlights the brand’s commitment to innovation and forward-thinking design. As they continue to revive and reimagine their classic models, Renault is paving the way for a new era of automotive excellence.
