Renault plans to radically transform its next SUVs, drawing inspiration in particular from the recently unveiled Emblème concept.
At the moment, we can truly say that Renault is not idle. The diamond manufacturer is in fact increasing the number of new products, and notably made a show at the last Paris Motor Show, in October. In addition to the R5 E-Tech, which is a huge success, the French firm also lifted the veil on the R4 E-Tech, as well as on the Embleme concept, which announces the future. And precisely, Renault will profoundly evolve its aesthetic strategy by drawing inspiration from the latter.
New SUVs at Renault
The Boulogne-Billancourt-based firm has confirmed that it will begin a major transformation in 2028 with the launch of a new generation of electric vehicles. However, Renault will not abandon its heritage. Icons such as the Renault 5, 4 and Twingo will continue to preserve their distinctive design, underlining the brand's commitment to combining modernity and tradition. For Gilles Vidal, design director at Renault, the main challenge lies in the ability to reinvent shapes and forms. the concepts of tomorrow's vehicles.
“The big question is how to reinvent the next step in terms of concepts and silhouettes. What do they represent? What are they for? » he declared. This reflection takes place in a context where criticism of SUV multiply. The latter, although still widely acclaimed by consumers for their practicality, are increasingly being called into question, particularly in large metropolises like Paris, where additional parking fees are imposed on these vehicles considered bulky and energy-consuming. Gilles Vidal calls for broader reflection: “This leads us to ask ourselves what we should do that is less questionable in terms of heritage, more effective, and which therefore deserves a new type of form. »
A vision focused on the future
The concept Embleme embodies this vision of the future: generous, elegant shapes, but simplified compared to the complex designs of recent models like the Scénic. He explains that “The cars that preceded the Emblem were perhaps a little misleading. because we see a 5, a 4, a Twingo. The 5 and 4 are retro-futuristic, and the Twingo has never stopped [sa production]but we return to the design elements of the premiere. But this is very misleading because each design is specific to a car. »
For Renault, it is a question of reconciling desirability, efficiency and respect for the expectations of European consumers, attached to practical formats such as station wagons. Gilles Vidal emphasizes that “many people regret the disappearance of the latter. For electric vehicles, a low, aerodynamic and practical product is a very good idea. But we want them to be sexy. Sports estate cars are attractive. » This transformation is also accompanied by technological and aesthetic challenges: how to design EVs that combine increased autonomy, low ecological impact and attractive aesthetics?
Renault seems to want to establish itself as a pioneer by offering innovative solutions and placing user expectations at the center of its strategy.
