RENAULT REVIVES 1970s COUPE AS STRIKING EV

17 restomod has 270bhp, RWD - and could lead to a production car

- FELIX PAGE

Renault has revived the 17 coupé of the 1970s as a sleek, sporting EV with as much power as a modern Volkswagen Golf GTI and a carbonfibre chassis.

Created in partnership with French designer Ora Ito, the restomod is the latest in a series of reimagined Renault classics that pair retro design cues with modern technology.

The 17 was launched in 1971 as Renault's first frontwheel-drive coupé, based on the underpinnings of the hugely popular 12 saloon.

It was only really its four round headlights and distinctive louvred rear pillars that differentiated the car from the technically identical 15 coupé.

Described as "very much a modern vehicle", the 17 restomod swaps the original 1289cc petrol engine and FWD format for a 270bhp electric motor on the rear axle. This is thought to be closely related to the 'e-PT-200kW' motor Renault will install in its most powerful EVs from 2027.