Renault has once again pushed the boundaries of automotive design with the debut of the Renault 4 E-Tech Electric at the 2024 Paris Motor Show. This bold entry into the electric vehicle market celebrates the past while blazing a path forward with its revolutionary backlit grille and illuminated logo, a first for the brand.
A Modern Twist on a Classic Icon
The original Renault 4, known for its distinctive rectangular grille with rounded corners, set a benchmark in automotive style during the 1960s. The Renault 4 E-Tech Electric revisits these iconic features but with an electrifying upgrade: a grille illuminated by LED technology. As Renault's Chief Designer Stefano Bolis remarked, "Light is today's new chrome," perfectly encapsulating the marriage of heritage and innovation in this design.
Key Features of the Grille Design:
- Illuminated Logo: Compliant with the European Union's 2023 regulations on illuminated logos, which enforce stringent size and symmetry requirements.
- Integrated Lighting: The grille and lighting work seamlessly to provide a futuristic aesthetic.
- Enhanced Durability: A single-piece illuminated grille spans 1.45 meters, setting a new standard for robust design in the automotive world.
Contemporary Design for a New Generation
The Renault 4 E-Tech Electric transcends nostalgia, offering a futuristic design that appeals to a diverse audience. While respecting the DNA of its predecessor, the new model emphasizes modernity with:
- A sleek sculpted grille pattern contrasting the black radiator interior with luminous lines.
- LED technology integrated into daytime running lights and compact main lighting modules.
- Redesigned rear lights inspired by the original Renault 4, now more refined and minimalist.
Stefano Bolis emphasizes that this design doesn't simply mimic the past but reinterprets it for a modern audience, ensuring its appeal spans generations.