Renault 5 Turbo 3E Becomes Europe’s First Production EV With In-Wheel Motors
Developed in collaboration with Protean Electric, one of the world’s leading developers of in-wheel motor systems, the all-electric Renault 5 Turbo 3E uses Protean Drive technology to deliver power directly to the rear wheels. The result is a compact electric mini-supercar producing an impressive 555 horsepower while achieving 0–62 mph in under 3.5 seconds.
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E represents a modern reinterpretation of the legendary Renault 5 Turbo from the 1980s, blending retro-inspired design with advanced EV engineering. By integrating the motors directly into the wheels, Renault and Protean eliminate the need for traditional drivetrain layouts, helping optimize packaging, responsiveness, and driving dynamics.
According to Alpine CEO Philippe Krief, the development team focused on creating a true enthusiast-focused electric performance car while maintaining the spirit of the original Renault 5 Turbo. Protean’s in-wheel motor system reportedly met the demanding torque and power requirements necessary for the project within an accelerated two-year development timeline.
Protean Electric CEO Andrew Whitehead described the partnership as an important moment for vehicle electrification, highlighting how in-wheel motor technology can expand design flexibility and performance possibilities for future electric vehicles.
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E continues to position itself as one of the most ambitious retro-inspired EV projects currently in development. Beyond its dramatic styling and high-output electric powertrain, the project also serves as a showcase for next-generation propulsion systems that could influence future performance EV architectures.
Additional technical details regarding the Renault 5 Turbo 3E and Protean’s in-wheel motor system are expected to be revealed during the 2026 International Vienna Motor Symposium, where both companies will present engineering papers covering the vehicle and powertrain development.
