Renault has been wowing with its all-electric retro facelifts in recent years, and someone over there seems committed to keeping the party going with the launch of this new Renault Gordini 8 EV concept.
Launched in 1964, the original Renault 8 Gordini had a 95 HP four-cylinder engine mounted behind the rear axle. It was unimaginably unstable at the limit, with sudden oversteer that could strike fear into the driver’s heart, especially on slippery or gravel roads. However, in the right hands, the La Gorde offered genuine racing performance and earned a reputation as an excellent “training car” for a generation of motorsport legends that included French rally champion Jean Ragnotti.
This newer version retains the iconic look of the original, but packs it with modern electric power (270 horsepower, in fact) combined with modern suspension, wheels, and wings to keep it on the ground.
“We updated the distinctive styling of the original Renault 8, which was practically symmetrical from front to rear, to give it a more dynamic appearance. With the flowing lines of the cabin, the wide tracks, the prominent wings and the 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, it seems to hug the road,” explains Alexandre Malval, Vice President of Renault Design. “The decision to enlarge the rear wheels creates a visual sense of momentum – a nod to the rear design that was a hallmark of the enormously enjoyable ride the original offered.”
has the appearance
Renault says its design team delivered more than 300 sketches “spontaneously” for the Gordini project, with concepts that fused traditional styling with a modern twist, or even more GT-inspired looks. Of these approximately 300 proposals, two advanced, allowing them to be compared and create what the company calls “a new model,” bringing together the best of each.
On the way to construction, all the details were considered: even the “Renault blue” is not exactly the Renault blue used in classics like the Clio Williams or even the new Filante Record 2025 or the elegant Beach electric concepts.
“The color of the concept car was inspired by Bleu de France, the signature color of the original Renault 8 Gordini,” says Thomas Altet, color and materials designer. “This modern reboot is based on a three-layer construction, combining mother-of-pearl with a blue-dyed binder for added depth and richness. Under light, the historic shade of blue can be glimpsed along the edges, fully revealing the sculpted lines of the body.”
The retro nods continue inside, with rally-ready design details underlining the serious sporting intent of the new Gordini concept. You can take a look at them yourself below and then let us know what you think about the rally’s latest resurgence in the comments.
the office
If you’re thinking about going solar, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from some installers. To ensure you find a trustworthy and reliable solar installer near you offering competitive prices, check out energywisea free service that makes it easy for you to use solar energy. They have hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high-quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use and you won’t receive sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.
Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll have access to unbiased energy advisors to help you every step of the way. Start here.
FTC: We use automatic affiliate links that generate income. Further.
