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Renault 5 e-Tech: the icon of the 80s makes a comeback
Long-awaited for the end of the year, the Renault 5 is making its comeback in a 100 % electric version, to the delight of fans of this iconic 80s model. With its retro but modernised design, it takes up the main aesthetic codes of the concept car previously presented in 2021. It's immediately appealing. This new version of the Renault 5 will keep its prominent wings.
The canvas roof, reminiscent of the 1972 models of yesteryear, does not feature on the standard version of the Renault R5 Electric. However, two-tone variants could be offered for the most luxurious versions. The headlights would retain their unique design, reminiscent of teeth firmly implanted in the bumper. The aim is to comply with current regulations. The charging port would remain on the bonnet, where the old R5 had a ventilation grille.
In terms of entertainment news, the French manufacturer has been tight-lipped on the subject. We do know, however, that future buyers will be able to benefit from Android Automotive. This directly on-board system will enable them to control the various functions of the electric vehicle (air conditioning, heating, heated seats, etc.). They will also be able to take advantage of directly integrated applications such as the Google Assistant to obtain directions, information or simply make a call. Unfortunately, for this revamped version of the Renault 5, we can't expect the cockpit to be as spectacular as its big sister, the Mégane e-Tech.
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Pricing will be between €25,000 and €30,000 for the basic version and €10,000 for the top-of-the-range 'Alpine' version. It should go on sale a year later.
Volkswagen ID.2: as spacious as a Golf, as inexpensive as a Polo
This is the promise made by VolkswagenWith this new model, largely inspired by the Golf, the German manufacturer intends to democratise the electric car for the masses. The ID.2 all concept car will give birth to a vehicle of the same name at an aggressive price. With its ID range, Volkswagen is making a firm commitment to electric vehicles. The ID.2, more compact than its big sister ID.3is perfect for city driving. Its range, which is slightly greater than that of the Renault 5, makes it a wise choice for those looking to combine performance and budget.
Positioning itself as a serious competitor in the electric city carsBut we'll have to be a little more patient to see it on our roads. It is expected to be available from 2026. Unlike other brands, Volkswagen has opted for clarity by unveiling a fairly comprehensive specification sheet for its future baby.
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Range (WLTP)
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450 km
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Battery
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56 kWh
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Fast charge (10 to 80 %)
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20 min
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Power
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166 kW (226 bhp)
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Maximum load power
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125 kW (DC)
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0 to 100 km/h
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7 sec
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Maximum speed
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160 km/h
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Boot volume
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490 L
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Length
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4,05 m
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Wheelbase
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2,6 m
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The dimensions are similar to those of the Peugeot e-208 with a boot equivalent to that of a Tesla Model 3. More discreet about the interior of the Volkswagen ID.2, the brand has already indicated that two screens will be present: a 10.9-inch dashboard and a 12.9-inch central infotainment screen. There will also be a head-up display.
Importantly, Volkswagen has corrected the main problem with the current I.D. series by adding illuminated physical buttons below the central screen. Like most of its rivals, entry-level prices will hover around the €25,000 mark, with an additional €10,000 for the most powerful versions.
Citroën ë-C3: the first €100/month electric city car
Despite the fact that this electric city car is the one that should reach the market the fastest in this top 5, we have very little information about it. So it's still a mystery, but the objectives are clear: to be able to offer affordable electric cars for everyone. "Mobility, especially electric mobility, must be affordable for everyone. We need more cheap cars again. says Thierry Koskas. The Citroën CEO wants to make the Citroën ë-C3 a pioneering model in electric mobility accessible to all.
It should cost less than 23,000 euros (before bonuses) and offer excellent value for money. This price is due in particular to a smaller battery than its competitors (40 kWh and 50 kWh), offering 82 bhp and 109 bhp respectively. With its highly futuristic design, it is directly inspired by the Oli concept car presented in September 2022. The first electric city car to be offered on a €100/month leasing basis, it is due to be unveiled on 17 October this year for sale in the 1ᵉʳ quarter of 2024.
Also read → An electric car for €100 a month?
Fiat e-Panda: the revival of the existing version for all
The Fiat Panda, best known for its internal combustion version, is going electric. Fiat is planning to launch an all-electric version of its Panda, following the example of the Citroën ë-C3. These two models, from the Stellantis group, will have many similar components. They have probably been designed simultaneously and will be based on the same technical specifications. As a result, we can expect their engines and batteries to be comparable, with a range of around 300 km for the electric Panda according to the WLTP cycle. Although these cars from the Stellantis Group have common foundations, their design is distinct.
The Panda, for example, could have a design reminiscent of its heritage with more 'traditional' touches, and a possible 4×4 version could complete the range, which Citroën is certainly not considering. The design of the next Panda would be largely inspired by the Fiat Centoventi concept car unveiled in 2019. The new generation of the Panda will be unveiled in mid-July 2024, so we'll have to wait a little longer to discover it.
To find out more, have a look at our article dedicated to the cheapest electric cars of 2023. Whether you're a city dweller looking for a small car for your daily commute, or a car enthusiast looking for the latest novelty, there's bound to be an electric vehicle for you. Ready to take the electric step? Contact our Beev experts if you have any questions. We'll get back to you within the hour.
