Renault Twingo E-Tech mimics memorable 1992 model

After revealing the design last November, Renault has now built the Twingo E-Tech electric prototype showcar which is on display at the 2024 Paris Motor Show this week. The concept model references the 1992 model of the same name which was formed from the words ‘twist’, ‘swing’ and ‘tango’, reflecting its character.

The Twingo E-Tech electric prototype rekindles the original flame, with an all-electric powertrain designed for city driving. Like the original design, it has a minimalistic silhouette, mischievous headlamps and a small footprint, with 5 doors for practicality.

Its monovolume silhouette includes a fixed glass roof to fill the generously sized interior with light, and epitomises Renault’s philosophy of the ‘voitures à vivre’ – ‘cars for life and living’, an emblematic slogan from the 1980s.

Developed by Ampere (Renault’s EV-focussed subsidiary), a series of details inspired by the original Twingo heighten this prototype’s character, and enhance its modern proportions and liquid-like surfaces. Most obvious are the headlamps (which are now inside floating LED rings) that combine techy and fetching looks.

The rear design also brings to mind the original Twingo’s emblematic tail, and the black rim around the rear glass screen adds a modern touch. The protruding taillights, which are the same shape as the headlamps, give the car a high-tech feel.

Also present are those memorable handles across the two doors on either side – their design comes  straight from the 1992 model and now have a round rim that lights up. The 3 small openings on the bonnet aren’t there to let air into the engine bay (since there is no engine but are a tribute to the car’s legacy. On the front of the bonnet, a screen displays the logo that comes to life. As for the front headlight, it goes out in a sneaky way, as a wink.

The prototype show car is the next chapter in a story that began more than 30 years ago, and previews the fourth generation of the Twingo. Renault plans to start selling it in 2026, with an entry price of less than €20,000 (about RM93,300).

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