R17 electric restomod x Ora Ïto is a unique model and not the forerunner for a future production vehicle.
Styled as a restomod by Ora Ïto, it was developed in collaboration with Renault’s Design team.
With Sandeep (Bhambra) and Gilles (Vidal), we worked on a theme that was retro-futuristic, almost cinematic. I wanted to drape Renault 17 in a second skin, showcasing the design while giving it a more contemporary look in terms of flow, dynamics and rationality through my own approach to design and my own signature: simplexity. I wanted to simplify the more complex aspects – said Ora Ïto
A leading figure in contemporary design, France’s Ora Ïto is a child of the 1970s. Revealed by his avant-garde creations and bold approach, Ora Ïto made his name by hacking leading brands with his digital products. A firm believer in simplexity, a mix of simplicity and complexity, he is a pop culture phenomenon in his own right, taking part in prestigious collaborations and picking up awards around the world. R17 electric restomod x Ora Ïto is his first joint project with Renault.
While reflecting the history and integrity of Renault 17, the show car is also a restomod, combining the classic charm of the original with the technologies and materials of today. This revolutionary approach unlocks synergies between past and present, creating a modern experience without losing sight of the spirit of Renault 17.
A retro-futuristic, elegant and stylish version of R17
A two-door coupé with a tailgate, Renault 17 featured a sporty design accentuated by four round headlamps, frameless doors, a body with no central pillar, fully opening rear side windows and second quarter windows with louvers.
Based on the monocoque structure of the original, R17 electric restomod x Ora Ïto has the same cabin, doors, windows, glazing, seals and underbody.
The body is 17 cm wider for better roadholding. The design of the wings and wheels give it a look that is both spectacular and elegant.
R17 electric restomod x Ora Ïto is very much a modern vehicle. The headlamps take the form of four rectangular modules with rounded corners, while the rear lights form a single strip. It also features an all-electric 270 bhp powertrain at the rear.
The carbon fibre chassis with its flush lines keeps the weight down to just 1.4 tonnes. The Galactic Brown body colour is an original shade developed specially for the show car.
R17 boasted all the interior features of a true tourer, with its specific driving position, comfortable seats, full range of equipment and meticulous finish. The restomod version maintains the original standards of comfort, while making a number of changes to the dashboard and centre console. The seats have been redesigned around the original “petal” structure, with new upholstery inspired by the world of interior design: a heathered satin in fine Merino wool for the brown fabric and a delicate lightweight wool bouclé that is both long and thick, for the beige fabric. As a contemporary vehicle, R17 electric restomod x Ora Ïto features a central screen with the current Renault graphic environment and four small geometric screens behind the steering wheel, inspired by the dials of the original model.
We kept the most distinctive design features of Renault 17, starting with the front end. My aim was to add stye and flow, but without altering the character of R17. You can still see the original Renault 17 and its sports coupé looks. I wanted to add my own design codes, accentuating some of the characteristics with a futuristic touch to give them a more timeless look. This is what I did with the wheels, for example. My signature is also visible inside the car. We teleported Renault 17 into the future, making a few subtle changes that give it a whole new look. Our key phrase was: ‘a detail is not a detail’. There is a certain ambivalence in that it is not intended to be taken entirely at face value. We were also aiming for a light-hearted touch. Renault has a strong identity and I like that. You recognise a Renault when you see one, and this restomod is no exception to the rule – Ora Ïto said.
Creating a new artistic take on R17 threw open a huge field of exploration, giving us the opportunity to come up with something unexpected and memorable. The creative dialogue between Ora Ïto and our Design team maintains the body lines and spirit of the original R17 while giving it a minimalist, ultra-contemporary look. Inside the car, the main features of R17 are given a new twist through the creative vision of Ora Ïto. The style of the geometric lines and shapes takes passengers into the comfortable world of interior design and furnishings – Sandeep Bhambra, Chief Designer, Concept Cars, Renault added.
R17 electric restomod x Ora Ïto is on show at Maison5 (Paris) until 11 September. This unique prototype will then be presented at the Chantilly Arts & Elegant Richard Mille competition from 12 to 15 September, before being exhibited on the Renault stand at the Paris Motor Show from 14 to 20 October.
Source: Renault
In the following links you can read the serie of two articles about the Renault 17
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