From Icons to iPads: Why Classic Cars Like the Renault 5 Are Making a High-Tech Comeback
The future of cars is electric, digital, and… surprisingly familiar. In a strange twist, car manufacturers are digging into their dusty archives to resurrect classic models — only this time, they’re packing batteries, screens, and enough tech to make Tesla sweat.
Leading the charge? The Renault 5 — a beloved hatchback from the ‘70s and ‘80s — reborn as an affordable EV with retro looks and futuristic guts. And it’s not alone.
So what’s driving this retro-futuristic revival, and why does everyone suddenly want to drive their dad’s old car… but electric?
The Renault 5 Is Back — and It’s Brilliant
The Renault 5 E-Tech is set to launch this year and might be one of the most exciting things to happen to the EV market since the original Tesla Roadster.
Same compact, cheeky styling — boxy arches, minimalist grille, neon accents — but under the skin?
- Battery options: 40kWh or 52kWh, targeting 200–250 mile range.
- Price: Estimated starting at under £25,000 — massive for affordability.
- Interior: Full digital dash, open-source infotainment platform, and Google built-in.
It’s fun. It’s simple. It’s not trying to be a spaceship — and that’s exactly why people love it.
Who Else Is Rebooting Classics?
The Renault 5 is just one of many legendary models getting a 21st-century reboot:
- Mini Cooper EV
The classic shape is still there, but now it’s packing advanced driver assistance, sharper steering, and serious range boosts. Made in the UK again from 2026 — big win for local jobs. - Fiat 500e
Launched with massive success across Europe. Iconic silhouette, ultra-compact, perfect for city driving. One of the few EVs that still feels “human-sized.” - Lancia Delta (2026)
Yes, it’s coming back. Italian style meets sharp electric performance. Lancia’s betting the brand on it. - VW ID. Buzz
OK, not a car — but the spiritual successor to the VW Camper is now electric, practical, and somehow still groovy.
Why Retro Is Winning
Let’s break it down:
- Nostalgia sells — We grew up with these cars. Now we want them back — but updated.
- Trust factor — Familiar names make people more comfortable jumping into EVs.
- Cost savings for manufacturers — Reviving an old brand means skipping expensive concept work and instantly getting brand recognition.
- Design language — Classic shapes stand out in a world of samey EV blobs. Boxy is back.
The Tech Underneath
These reborn classics are anything but old school:
- Over-the-air updates
- AI-based driver assistance
- Voice control
- Smartphone integration
- Regenerative braking
- Sustainable materials inside
Think 1980s look, 2080s tech.
What It Means for the Car World
This isn’t just a quirky trend — it’s a smart strategy. EVs are often criticised for being dull, soulless appliances. Retro reboots bring personality back to the market.
They also open the door to mainstream electrification. When the average person sees a car they recognise (and maybe even loved once), they’re far more likely to consider buying it — especially at a decent price point.
Expect more to come: Peugeot, Ford, and even Honda have all hinted at digging into their past.
Final Thoughts
In a world where cars are becoming rolling computers, it’s refreshing to see design that makes you feel something again. The Renault 5 E-Tech, Mini EV, Fiat 500e — these aren’t just EVs. They’re love letters to the past, written with future tech.
And for anyone who ever owned one of these classics: Get ready to fall in love all over again.