Renault has revealed a repainted prototype of its forthcoming all-electric 5 ahead of the French Open, as the brand continues its partnership with the tournament at Roland-Garros for 2023.
The new R5, expected to become a fully-fledged production model in 2024, has been given a metallic satin-white finish for the event among other changes - in what will become a future Roland-Garros special edition range.
As well as the new paintwork adorning the car's body, the unique Renault 5 also takes styling cues from the striking Roland-Garros venue, such as the Saint Andrew's crosses that can be found dotted around the stadium incorporated into the lateral grilles. An illuminated Roland-Garros logo also features where the 5's model badge was previously fitted.
The car's window contours have also been retrimmed in chrome satin for the event, while the prototype's rims now feature shades of anodised blue in their finish. The Roland-Garros 5 Prototype will be showcased to the public at the French Open, from 22 May to 11 June, alongside other new models such as the Espace E-Tech hybrid (not coming to Ireland) and the Renault 4Ever Trophy concept car.
Renault 5 Prototype - what we know
Expected to go into production next year, the electric Renault 5 is a revival of the design of the hatchback produced from 1972 to 1996. The designers have attempted to incorporate cues from the original car's functional, boxy look, while also remaining faithful to the more streamlined designs of modern Renaults.
Irish pricing is currently unconfirmed, but the R5 is expected to be an affordable model. Performance-oriented versions are also in the works, with Renault's Alpine division unveiling an all-electric tuned variant of the hatch in concept form recently, to be called the A290.
Renault and Roland-Garros
Renault entered into a five-year partnership with the Roland-Garros tennis tournament in 2022, and this year sees the carmaker bolster its visibility in the competition. The firm's double-diamond logo will be featured on the nets of the main courts for a start.
This year also sees the return of Renault's "Let Challenge", part of its "Give Me 5" programme that focuses on helping young people. Each time the net is hit by a served ball, Renault will pledge €100 to the initiative. The challenge proved a massive success last year, as €161,400 was raised, and Renault increased its donation to €235,000 - enabling three tennis courts to be built in France.
"We are very happy and proud to reinforce our partnership with Roland-Garros," said Head of Global Marketing for Renault, Arnaud Belloni.