Renault reveals 4EVER Trophy electric off-roader concept
Renault revives the spirit of the Quatrelle with 4EVER Trophy
Even though we haven't had an official importer in the Philippines since before many of us were born, Renault has always been an interesting manufacturer. Their designs are rather unique and they have true motorsport credentials in rallying and F1.
Lately, however, there haven't really been any Renaults that have caught our fancy. But that may be changing.
At the Paris motor show, Renault revealed the 4EVER Trophy, a throwback to one of their classic models produced for just over 30 years until 1992: the Renault 4L or Quatrelle. Basically, it can be somewhat considered the French equivalent of the Beetle or the Mini.
The new 4EVER Trophy, however, is very different from the classic one. For one, it's more of an SUV. Actually, Renault says this will pave the way for a future B-segment SUV because it measures 4160mm long with a wheelbase of 2570mm; that puts it squarely in the class. What Renault did was reinterpret and modernize some of the styling cues of the original model.
“To bring 4EVER Trophy into the modern era, we have infused its streamlined shape with technological sophistication,” said Gilles Vidal, VP for Renault's design. “All these ingredients have been carefully crafted so that the design resonates with those who are familiar with the 4L and its illustrious history, and with younger generations.”
Some of the design cues that Renault revived are the silhouette with the bonnet, the bumper, and the way the rear is angled. Renault described the model in more detail, but what really stands out is the appearance that seems more 4x4 dune buggy than a road SUV.
Renault didn't mention any details about the powertrain except that it will be electric and will use the CMF-BEV platform. We presume it will come with a 4x4 drivetrain given the styling. The 200mm clearance, the large 19” wheels, the spare tire strapped on the roof, and the shovel and waffleboards on the rear are perhaps the most notable indicators of this. They even reinforced the underside of the monocoque for such off-road adventures.
For now, the 4EVER Trophy will just be a show car, but it's a promising indicator of Renault in the future. In ASEAN, Renault doesn't really have a significant presence, but if they go on with the production of such a model, maybe they can explore expanding their presence here. We're quite sure a lot of people will be interested in a capable, fun, and neat-looking little crossover from an already established brand. What really matters will be whether it will be affordable in our market once imported.
