by Renault adds a huge canvas folding roof to the electric 4 E-Tech crossover for an extra £1,500
Renault, with its retro-styled 4 E-Tech, has already borrowed plenty of design cues from the original Renault 4, but now it revives one of the coolest features of the old model. Meet the new Plein Sud version, which replaces the standard roof with a huge electric canvas folding mechanism.
The fabric opening measures 800 by 920 mm (31.5 x 36.2 inches) and folds electrically in several stages, providing a true open-air feel for both front and rear passengers. Renault claims this is the only fully electric B-segment crossover currently offering such a configuration.
Nod to the original and modern technology
The roof itself is a rather obvious nod to the simple manual folding canvas roof of the original Renault 4 from the 1960s. But this one is much smarter. Not only is it fully electric, but it can also be opened by asking the voice assistant Reno if you’re too lazy to press a button.
Mechanically, nothing changes in the SUV sibling of the Renault 5 E-Tech. Buyers still get the familiar front-mounted 148 hp (150 PS / 110 kW) motor and a 52 kWh battery, providing a range of up to 242 miles (389 km) on the WLTP cycle. This is only slightly less than the fixed-roof version, which can travel up to 249 miles (400 km), proving that the folding roof hasn’t significantly harmed efficiency.
Cheaper than a beach vacation
The Plein Sud is available in the mid-level Techno+ and top-tier Iconic+ trims and costs £1,500 ($2,000) more than equivalent models with a fixed roof. Prices start from £27,445 ($37,412) in the UK after applying the government grant of £3,750 ($5,111) for electric vehicles. In France, prices start from €31,110 ($36,684) after incentives.
Pre-ordering opens immediately for Renault R Pass holders — customers who previously paid for priority access to skip the queue. Everyone else will be able to place orders from May 14.
Updated safety systems
In addition to the roof, Renault has also updated safety technologies across the entire 4 E-Tech lineup to meet the latest European regulations. New systems include driver fatigue monitoring and an emergency stop function capable of safely slowing the car if the driver becomes unable to control it.
This move by Renault demonstrates how automakers can blend nostalgia with modern technology, offering unique features that set the electric vehicle apart from competitors. The folding roof not only adds practicality but also creates an emotional connection with the brand’s history, which can be especially appealing to buyers looking for not just a vehicle but a way to express a lifestyle. At the same time, the safety system updates underscore the company’s commitment to meeting strict standards, which is critical for success in the European market.
