Renault 4 E-Tech and Renault 5 E-Tech to reach 500 km range in 2027

If the Renault 4 E-Tech and Renault 5 E-Tech’s up-to-409 km WLTP range does not meet your needs, there is encouraging news: the French brand is already planning to extend it to 500 km.

According to a report by L’Argus, confirmed by Ampere - the Renault Group’s electric vehicle division - these new longer-range versions are due to arrive in 2027. Renault will rely on two key developments to achieve this: a revised, higher-capacity battery chemistry and an upgraded version of the 6AK powertrain currently fitted to both models.

At present, both the Renault 4 E-Tech and the Renault 5 E-Tech - read our latest test - are available with two NMC lithium-ion battery options: 40 kWh and 52 kWh, with the latter providing the greater range.

Higher-capacity battery for the Renault 4 E-Tech and Renault 5 E-Tech

The new lithium-ion battery will still be supplied by AESC, which holds the exclusive contract for the Renault 4 and 5, and will retain NMC chemistry - nickel, manganese and cobalt. However, its chemistry will be updated, allowing capacity to rise from the current 52 kWh to 56 kWh.

More efficient motor

As for the powertrain, both cars use an externally excited synchronous motor (EESM). This technology does not require permanent magnets, avoiding the costs linked to rare earth materials and dependence on China. It produces up to 150 hp (110 kW), although the technology is not as efficient as that used by other electric motors.

The replacement unit, called the 6AK Evo, will address those shortcomings through new components - the rotor shaft and motor housings - as well as a new inverter and stator. The stator will use hairpin winding technology, which employs U-shaped copper bars similar to a hairpin, delivering several benefits including higher output and efficiency.

Together, the new battery and 6AK Evo will enable the current Renault 4 and 5 to gain almost 100 km of range on a single charge, reaching 500 km. However, these upgrades will not reach the market until 2027.