Revamped Renault 5 Blends Vintage Style with EV Innovation

A group of automotive experts has collaborated to create an electrifying version of the iconic 1970s Renault 5 GTL, seamlessly merging vintage aesthetics with cutting-edge tech. One of the standout features is the customisable digital instrument cluster, meticulously designed for this project.

This ambitious venture brought together industry specialists, including Incari, renowned for their innovative human-machine interface (HMI) solutions, who focused on the creation of the digital dash. The 2CV Méhari Club Cassis contributed invaluable insights into preserving the vehicle's retro appeal, while L2Concept added aesthetic enhancements.

Gallery: Renault 5 Restomod

The revamped dashboard is a true highlight of this restomod. The original analogue speedometer has been replaced with a fully customisable digital display, courtesy of Incari's HMI development platform, Incari Studio. Drivers now have the option to switch between a classic analogue look and a modern digital interface, ensuring that the spirit of the '70s is just a tap away.

The transformation of a vintage petrol-powered vehicle into an electric car is no small task. The team had to seamlessly integrate modern EV components while preserving the iconic Renault design. This involved replacing the internal combustion engine with an electric motor, enhancing the performance of the braking and suspension systems, and redesigning the interior with sporty seats and a fresh paint job.

Celso Albuquerque, the Managing Director of Incari Labs, commented, "Incari's development platform has allowed us to sensitively 'restomod' the Renault 5, retaining the look and feel of the original instrumentation while introducing driver displays that the original Renault engineers from the 1970s could only dream of. With a bespoke task, a limited budget, and a tight deadline, Incari delivered a stunning driver information system perfectly suited to this updated classic."

This project showcases the growing trend of "restomodding," where classic vehicles are revived and modified with modern technology. It demonstrates how innovation and tradition can coexist, providing a sustainable path for vintage car enthusiasts in an increasingly eco-conscious world.

Source: Incari