by Renault unveiled the new R4 JP4x4 concept: a two-door, all-wheel drive beach buggy
Renault has presented a new concept car based on the R4 E-Tech model, created specifically for summer leisure. The R4 JP4x4 features an open two-seat body, a redesigned cabin with two seats and an open cargo area, as well as an all-wheel drive powertrain for tackling sandy beaches.
Inspiration from the past
This concept borrows ideas from two previous versions of the R4: the Plein Air from 1969 and the JP4 from 1981. Its name stands for Journée à la Plage, which means “day at the beach” in French.
Unique design and features
The visual highlight is the half-doors, which replace the five-door layout of the production model. They work in conjunction with the redesigned roof structure, which features an X-shaped element for mounting a surfboard. The car has no side windows or fabric roof, so the cabin remains constantly open.
The concept is painted in a special Emerald Green color, which contrasts with the bright orange interior. In addition to its function as a beach buggy, it also serves as a pickup truck with a drop-down tailgate for easy loading. A surfboard is mounted on the roof, and two skateboards are placed in the cargo area.
Interior and equipment
Inside, the seats catch the eye, styled like “Egyptian mummies” with integrated headrests and combined upholstery. The instrument panel and digital cockpit are carried over from the production electric car, but the concept gains an additional grab handle for the passenger and a floating center console.
Technical specifications
Like last year’s R4 Savane 4×4 concept, the JP4x4 is equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain. Renault has not yet offered this configuration on the production R4 model.
The concept has a ground clearance increased by 15 mm (0.6 inches) compared to the standard version, and the front and rear tracks are widened by 10 mm (0.4 inches) on each side. The 18-inch wheels feature a futuristic design and are fitted with Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+ tires. The wheelbase remains unchanged at 2,624 mm (103.3 inches).
No production plans
Renault has clearly stated that the JP4x4 will remain a one-off model with no production plans. The show car will be presented at the French Open tennis tournament Roland-Garros alongside the production electric R4, R5, and Twingo E-Tech models.
For buyers who want an open-top R4 E-Tech, the manufacturer already offers the Plein Sud version with an electric fabric roof. It went on sale at the beginning of this month starting at €37,290 ($43,800).
This concept demonstrates Renault’s creative approach to creating niche models that highlight the brand’s heritage and its ability to experiment with design. Although the JP4x4 will not go into production, it could serve as a source of inspiration for future special versions or accessories for production electric vehicles. The lack of production plans does not diminish its value as a marketing tool that draws attention to the R4 lineup and showcases the platform’s potential for various body styles.
