Turn a car from the past into an electric model. Some companies specialize in this “transformation”. A market that is gradually growing more and more, and this also affects car manufacturers. For some of his models Renault decided to intervene directly. Thanks to one partnership with R-FITthis will be possible electrify the first generation Renault 4, Renault 5 and Twingo. The retrofit kit will be limited to the French market for the time being.
Kit for Renault 4 (manufactured by R-FIT) can be ordered from February 1 and will cost with installation, 17 900 euros. The kit for the Renault 5 will arrive in mid-2023. Instead, the kit for the first generation Twingo will be available later. The transformation involves the removal of the internal combustion engine and gas tank, which will be replaced by an electric power plant and battery.
According to the specifications of the kit for Renault 4, the electric motor will be able to count on 14.5 kW of continuous power and 48 kW of peak power. The device will be powered by Battery 10.7 kWh (LFP). Announced autonomy 80 km, not much, but enough to move around the city. It takes 3 and a half hours to get full power from a regular outlet. After the conversion, the car still has the same weight distribution as when equipped with an internal combustion engine.
It is also emphasized that, having successfully passed various UTAC homologation tests, this conversion boasts a level of safety in line with market standards. The owner can safely drive the vehicle as it will be equipped with proper type approval and registration certificates.
At present, as mentioned above, the retrofit kit will only be available for the French market. However, it is possible that in case of “success” the operation can be repeated in other European markets. Hughes Portrondirector of The Originals Renault, commented:
We are excited about the idea of releasing electric vehicle upgrade kits that will allow both motorists and the younger generation to drive on French roads in our legendary Renault 4, Renault 5 and Twingo. In addition to the fact that new electric motors contribute to the circular economy, electric vehicle retrofit kits provide a solution to combine driving pleasure, cost savings and reliability without distorting the style or timeless original lines of these popular icons.
Source: HD Motori
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.