The automotive industry is experiencing a resurgence of classic designs, with car manufacturers increasingly bringing back iconic nameplates from the 1960s through the 2000s in the form of electric vehicles (EVs). This trend aims to blend nostalgic appeal with modern electric technology, catering to a new generation of EV buyers.
The movement gained significant traction with the launch of the Renault 5 E-Tech, a modern interpretation of the popular Renault 5 from the 1970s and 1980s. The overwhelming demand for the R5 E-Tech, resulting in waiting times of up to three months, has spurred other manufacturers to follow suit.
Several manufacturers are now offering or preparing to release retro-inspired EVs:
Ford
The Ford Capri, originally a low-slung sports coupé that ran from 1969 to 1986, has been controversially revived as an all-electric sports coupé. Despite mixed public reactions to its modern, larger design compared to the original, the new Capri EV offers a range of up to 389 miles and a 0-62mph acceleration time of 5.3 seconds. The Ford Explorer, which debuted in 1990 as a family SUV, has also been re-imagined as an EV designed with European drivers in mind. This electric family SUV provides up to 374 miles of range and features practical storage solutions, including a central MegaConsole and a 14.6-inch touchscreen with a hidden compartment.
Audi
The Audi A2, a compact family car known for its efficiency and short production run from 2000 to 2005, is set to return as the A2 e-tron. While not yet fully unveiled, the forthcoming model is expected to offer up to 400 miles of range and is anticipated to be Audi's most efficient car to date. It will retain the original's distinctive sloping roofline and rounded nose, updated with a sleeker design, new tail-lights, slim light bars, and aerodynamic wheels.
Mini
The Mini Cooper, first introduced as a performance variant in 1961, is now available as an all-electric model promising to retain its "100 per cent concentrated Cooper" character. The modern electric Cooper seats four and offers up to 250 miles of range with a 49.2kWh battery capacity and 255bhp. Inside, it features a 9.6-inch circular OLED central display.
Vauxhall
Vauxhall has relaunched the 1990s Frontera nameplate as a compact electric SUV for 2024, with electric power becoming exclusive from 2028. The new Frontera EV maintains a somewhat boxy shape reminiscent of its predecessor and serves as a family SUV. It offers up to 253 miles of range, an optional seven-seat configuration, and a 460-litre boot with a movable floor.
Renault
In addition to the R5 E-Tech, Renault is bringing back the R4 nameplate with the Renault 4 E-Tech. Originally launched in 1961 and a staple for French middle classes for three decades, the new R4 E-Tech is designed for everyday utility with a 420-litre boot, underfloor storage, an optional canvas roof, and a range of 248 miles. The Renault Twingo E-Tech, inspired by the original 1992 model, is also set to be a compact EV priced under £17,000, offering a range of 163 miles and advanced driver assistance systems.
Nissan
The Nissan Micra, an iconic model known for its reliability and nimble handling since its UK arrival in 1983, is being revived as an electric vehicle. Sharing a platform with the Renault 5 EV, the new Micra features 'bug-eye' headlights and a more SUV-inspired look, along with a dual 10-inch screen setup and Google integration. It offers up to 253 miles of range and up to 148bhp.
Citroën
Citroën is also planning a concept version of a new EV city car inspired by the original 2CV, which was designed to traverse rural French fields. Expected to be smaller than the Renault Twingo EV and priced under £15,000, this model is anticipated to focus on urban driving, though specific range and battery details are yet to be confirmed.