Renault is commemorating the 50th anniversary of the R5 model by unveiling a remarkable show car called the Renault 5 Diamond. This electric concept vehicle was meticulously crafted by designer Pierre Gonalons in collaboration with Renault Design Colors & Trim.
According to Gonalons, “The Renault 5 embodies a trendy and contemporary lifestyle. With the Renault 5 Diamond, I wanted to pay homage to its revolutionary design while infusing the shapes and colors from my creative universe into the automotive world.”
Gonalons has largely preserved the iconic design lines of the original 1972 model while enhancing and modifying significant elements of the beloved car. Notably, the headlights are no longer integrated into the body but are now mounted independently, resembling large diamonds housed within a delicate frame. Similarly, the rear lights of the three-door car, featuring a fabric folding roof, are faceted like precious stones.
The designer further accentuates the vehicle’s aesthetics by incorporating oversized round exterior mirrors, wide whitewall tires, and golden door knobs, complemented by a pink paint finish enhanced by golden add-on parts. Depending on the lighting conditions, the paint is designed to transition from golden lines in the sun to blue tones at night.
While staying true to tradition, Gonalons has also revamped the interior. The seat covers are sourced from the renowned textile manufacturer Métaphores, while the instrument panel is adorned with horsehair fabric from Le Crin, an esteemed artisanal weaving business.
Passengers are treated to the luxury of placing their feet on a mohair wool rug. Additionally, the glove compartment and steering wheel are crafted from marble. To achieve the curved design, recycled marble has been poured into tubes, facilitating the shaping process.
As the Renault 5 Diamond is a one-of-a-kind creation, enthusiasts will have the opportunity to purchase designer-inspired NFTs (non-fungible tokens) starting in the autumn. Both the NFTs and the Renault 5 Diamond will eventually be auctioned off as part of the Give Me 5 project, which aims to empower young people through sports and music.
In addition, Renault plans to reintroduce the R5 as an electric model starting in 2024. The brand’s design chief, Gilles Vidal, has reimagined the model in a modern and compact four-door format. The air outlet on the hood, reminiscent of the original R5, has been transformed into a charging socket.
This modern R5 will be based on the new modular electric platform CMB-EV, developed by the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance for all their forthcoming electric models. The redesigned R5 is expected to hit the market with prices ranging between 20,000 and 30,000 euros.
Pierre Gonalons is a highly esteemed designer and interior architect. The French designer established his own design studio at the young age of 23 and has since collaborated with renowned companies such as Lalique, Chloé, Pierre Frey, Nina Ricci, and Pernod. Gonalons combines a minimalist style with elements of decorative art and pop culture.
In recognition of his talent, he was included in AD magazine’s (Architectural Digest) list of top 100 designers in 2019. His work has been featured in numerous international publications, including Elle Décoration, Interni, Icon Design, and Departure.
The Renault 5 Diamant, created by star designer Pierre Gonalons, is not only a remarkable tribute to the 50th anniversary of the Renault 5 but is also being sold for a charitable cause.
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