The all-new Renault 5 E-Tech has finally emerged as a French contender against the Mini Cooper Electric. However, unlike its British counterpart, it will be exclusively offered in a five-door hatchback body. Rendering expert Theophilus Chin took the initiative and crafted a two-door convertible version of the R5 in the digital realm, evoking nostalgia for the days when drop-top models were still in vogue.
The fictional R5 E-Tech Convertible features a retractable fabric roof, which admittedly offers a more aesthetically pleasing appearance compared to a hard top option. The conversion involves eliminating the rear doors and undertaking a comprehensive redesign of the rear end, with smaller LED taillights and custom-made rear glass.
The exposed interior maintains a five-seater configuration, albeit with reduced room for rear passengers and significantly diminished cargo space due to the roof mechanism.
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Illustrations: Theottle
Unfortunately, investing in a drop-top version of the EV wouldn’t make any sense for Renault in today’s market. The transformation to a convertible would require significant modifications to the body and structure of the R5 E-Tech, increasing development costs for a segment that isn’t popular enough to justify it. After all, even the upcoming Alpine A290 hot hatch is keeping its rear doors for practicality’s sake.
This means that a two-door R5 Convertible could only materialize as a concept or a one-off conversion by an independent company, resulting in a hefty price tag. Do note that back in the ’80s, aftermarket companies Cleveland and EBS offered drop-top conversions of the first and second-generation R5 in limited numbers, inspired by the 1976 Renault 5 Cacharelle one-off.
As for the competition, Mini has confirmed it will offer the Cooper Electric in three-door, five-door, and two-door convertible versions, following the example of its ICE-powered sibling. The only other small hatchback that is available in multiple bodystyles is the Fiat 500e, coming in hatchback, cabrio and 2+1 guises. Needless to say, all the rest contestants in the small car segment have five doors.
Note: This story includes renderings that are not affiliated with nor endorsed by Renault.