Electric Revival of the Iconic Renault 5 Turbo, featuring In-wheel Electric Motors

Renault to Launch Limited-Edition Electric Hot Hatch in 2027

Renault has announced that it will be releasing a new limited-edition electric hot hatch, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, in 2027. The vehicle will be assembled in the Alpine factory in Dieppe, France, with a production run limited to 1,980 units.

The 5 Turbo 3E boasts a unique design, with proportions that set it apart from its predecessors. The windshield has been moved rearward, and the wheelbase has been extended. The width of the vehicle has also been increased to rival a modern supercar, measuring in at 80 inches.

Under the hood, the 5 Turbo 3E utilizes a custom platform for its rear-wheel-drive powertrain. The powertrain consists of a pair of in-wheel motors delivering a combined 533 hp, with each motor positioned within a 20-inch wheel. This setup promises 0-62 mph acceleration under 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 168 mph.

The battery of the 5 Turbo 3E is said to be capable of "several hot laps" at the track, and a range of about 250 miles is possible on the WLTP test cycle. It also features an 800-volt electrical system and a 70-kwh battery capable of charging at rates of up to 350 kw, allowing for a 15-80% charge in around 15 minutes using a suitable DC fast charger.

Inside, the 5 Turbo 3E features bucket seats, six-point harnesses, and carbon-fiber components to help save weight. A rally-style vertical handbrake is a nod to the 5 Turbo heritage, and the vehicle offers the option of fully customizable liveries.

The 5 Turbo 3E shares its general design with the Renault 5 E-Tech electric subcompact hatch launched last year, but beyond the basic link, the two vehicles have very little in common. The 5 Turbo 3E is the spiritual successor to the 5 Turbo and 5 Turbo 2 homologation specials of the 1980s.

The price of the 5 Turbo 3E hasn't been revealed yet, but the reservation process will begin in the coming weeks. The option of custom liveries includes some designs that match historic liveries used on the original 5 Turbo and 5 Turbo 2, such as the yellow, white, and black combination inspired by the 1982 Tour de Corse rally car.

While the 5 Turbo 3E isn't related to any racing program, its performance capabilities and design heritage make it an exciting addition to the electric vehicle market. The vehicle will be made available in showrooms starting in 2027, but specific countries of accessibility are not yet detailed in the available sources.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Renault 5 Turbo 3E as they become available.

Electric Revival of the Iconic Renault 5 Turbo, featuring In-wheel Electric Motors