Renault is making waves in the electric vehicle market with its latest concept, the Savane, a rugged variant of the new Renault 4 crossover. This exciting development hints at a potential 4×4 model that could soon hit the production line, and it’s stirring up quite a bit of buzz among car enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers alike.
What’s Special About the Savane Concept?
The Savane isn’t just a pretty face; it’s designed for adventure. Riding 15mm higher than the standard Renault 4, this concept boasts a more aggressive stance, complemented by utility-style wheels wrapped in grippy Goodyear tires. Inside, you’ll find a cozy cabin adorned with deep brown textile fabrics, giving it a warm, inviting feel. But the real story lies in its performance capabilities.
Unlike its front-wheel-drive counterpart, the Savane features a second motor on the rear axle, transforming it into a permanent four-wheel-drive vehicle. While Renault hasn’t released specific technical details yet, we can speculate based on the existing models. The standard Renault 4 comes with two motor options: 118bhp and 148bhp. If the Savane adds another motor of similar power, we could be looking at a combined output of around 300bhp. That’s impressive, especially when you consider its potential to rival the performance of other twin-motor electric vehicles like the Skoda Elroq vRS.
Is a Production Model on the Horizon?
While Renault has yet to officially confirm plans for a production version of the 4×4, the Savane concept showcases the flexibility of Renault’s Ampr Small architecture, which is capable of accommodating a dual-motor setup. A spokesperson mentioned that the company is currently exploring the technical feasibility and financial implications of bringing a 4×4 variant to market. So, while nothing is set in stone, the wheels are certainly in motion.
If the 4×4 does make it to showrooms, it would stand out as one of the smallest electric cars available with a twin-motor powertrain. That’s a significant selling point for those looking for compact vehicles that don’t skimp on performance.
What About the Renault 5?
The introduction of the Savane raises intriguing questions about its sibling, the Renault 5. Could it also adopt a similar twin-motor setup? While it’s uncertain if the 5’s more compact design can accommodate a rear motor, the possibilities are tantalizing. The original Renault 4 was always the more rugged option compared to the city-friendly Renault 5, and it seems that their electric successors are following suit.
Interestingly, the new Renault 4 was initially previewed in 2022 with a concept called the Trophy, which was heavily influenced by rally raid designs. This concept hinted at Renault’s ambition to create an off-road-ready variant, and the Savane seems to be a step in that direction. On the other hand, Renault has not indicated any plans for a twin-motor version of the 5, leaving us to wonder what the future holds for this beloved model.
Potential for Performance Boosts
If the Renault 5 can indeed support a twin-motor setup, it could have significant implications for the performance-oriented Alpine A290 hot hatch. Imagine a vehicle that not only benefits from a power boost but also utilizes torque vectoring across its two axles to enhance agility and responsiveness. That’s the kind of innovation that could redefine what we expect from compact electric vehicles.
As we look forward to what Renault has in store, it’s clear that the Savane concept is more than just a flashy design. It represents a commitment to blending sustainability with performance, all while keeping the adventurous spirit of the original Renault 4 alive.
The big takeaway? The Savane isn’t just about rugged looks—it’s about redefining what a small electric vehicle can do. Keep an eye on Renault; they might just surprise us all with what comes next.