Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV Garners 850 Orders in First Week at $176,000 Price Point

Renault‘s electrified revival of the iconic 1980s R5 Turbo, unveiled as the Renault 5 Turbo 3E at the 2022 Paris Auto Show, has sparked significant enthusiasm among electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts. The limited-edition hatchback, priced at 155,000 euros ($176,000), secured 850 reservations within its first week of orders, according to Reuters, highlighting strong demand for high-performance EVs that blend nostalgia with cutting-edge technology.

A Modern Take on a Rally Legend

The Renault 5 Turbo 3E pays homage to its combustion-engine predecessor, a rally sport icon, by retaining its distinctive body-built rear wings while transitioning to a fully electric powertrain. With a robust 555 horsepower, this EV accelerates from 0 to 62 miles per hour (100 kph) in just 3.5 seconds, a feat made possible by its innovative dual in-wheel electric motors on the rear wheels. Renault plans to produce only 1,980 units, a nod to the original Turbo’s 1980 debut, with deliveries expected to begin in 2027 from its Alpine plant in Dieppe, northern France.

In-Wheel Motor Technology Sets a New Standard

The Turbo 3E introduces a groundbreaking feature for production EVs: in-wheel electric motors. Supplied by Protean, a UK-based specialist, these motors are integrated directly into the rear wheels, eliminating the need for traditional axles and powertrains. This design not only frees up interior space but also reduces the vehicle’s weight, enhancing both power output and battery range. According to industry experts, in-wheel motors represent a significant leap forward for EV efficiency, offering manufacturers new ways to optimize performance and design. For buyers, this translates to a more spacious cabin and improved driving dynamics, making the Turbo 3E a standout in the high-performance EV market.

Strong Demand Signals Growing EV Enthusiasm

Renault opened reservations for the Turbo 3E on April 22, and the response was immediate. “Renault received 850 reservations for Turbo 3E in the first week after orders opened,” a company spokesperson confirmed, noting interest from regions including Europe, Japan, the Middle East, and Australia. To secure a unit, buyers must place a 50,000-euro ($56,800) deposit, reflecting the premium nature of this collector’s item. The $176,000 starting price (based on an exchange rate of 1 euro = $0.8806) positions the Turbo 3E as a luxury EV, yet its rapid order rate underscores a growing appetite for exclusive, high-performance electric models.

Implications for the EV Industry

The success of the Turbo 3E highlights several trends shaping the EV landscape. First, it demonstrates the appeal of blending heritage design with modern technology, a strategy that resonates with enthusiasts seeking both nostalgia and innovation. Second, the adoption of in-wheel motors signals a shift toward more efficient EV architectures, potentially influencing future designs across the industry. For consumers, this could mean lighter, more agile vehicles with extended ranges, addressing common concerns like battery life and practicality.

Economically, the Turbo 3E’s strong pre-order numbers suggest that high-end EVs can command premium prices without deterring buyers, especially in markets like Europe and Japan, where EV adoption is accelerating. However, the 2027 delivery timeline may test buyer patience, and Renault will need to ensure production quality to maintain its reputation in the competitive EV space. Regulatory incentives for EVs in key markets could further boost demand, but manufacturers must also navigate supply chain challenges to meet delivery schedules.

The Renault 5 Turbo 3E is more than a car—it’s a statement about the future of electric performance vehicles. With its blend of rally-inspired design, advanced technology, and strong market reception, it sets a high bar for what EVs can achieve.

Photos courtesy of Renault / Autocar