Renault Unveils E-Space Concept to Revive the Electric MPV Segment
The concept features steer-by-wire tech and rotating seats, positioning itself as an alternative to SUVs.
Renault has revealed the E-Space Concept, an electric multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) designed to challenge the market dominance of SUVs and sedans. Unveiled at the Paris Motor Show on Monday, the concept serves as a modern, electrified reinterpretation of the original 1984 Renault Espace.
What Happened
The E-Space Concept measures 4,700 mm long, 2,020 mm wide, and 1,670 mm tall, placing it in the same size bracket as the Kia PV5 Passenger and the short-wheelbase VW ID. Buzz. Renault describes the vehicle as "a real alternative to SUVs and saloons," featuring a lower stance and smooth lines that pay homage to the Espace 2 and 3 generations.
The interior design draws inspiration from Bauhaus architecture, specifically German-American architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, resulting in a fully glazed cabin with a low waistline. This design allows visibility into the cabin from outside and enables drivers to rest their elbows on the doors. The vehicle features double-hinged rear doors opening to a flat floor with six individual seats housed in "lacquered shells" that appear to float.
Why It Matters
The concept highlights a shift in MPV design philosophy, moving away from traditional bucket seats toward modular flexibility. Each seat can rotate, and the second-row seats can swivel 180 degrees to face the third row, creating what Renault terms a "TGV train square." This configuration includes a folding tray table and 12.3-inch screens mounted on the headrests. In a four-seat layout, the second-row seats fold to create a large table with a remote-control console containing an air purifier, small fridge, video game controllers, and a Connect 4 game.
Technologically, the E-Space Concept introduces steer-by-wire technology, which Stéphane Maiore, Renault Brand Head of Interior Design, noted is "free from all the physical constraints typically associated with steering." The cockpit features a massive pillar-to-pillar curved display known as the OpenR Panorama, along with a center infotainment screen; both displays can swivel around a base behind the compact steering wheel.
The Bottom Line
While Renault has not confirmed if or when a production version of the E-Space Concept will arrive, the company states it outlines a vision for "the car of the future" and represents a "contemporary retake on travel and family mobility in the electric age." The concept signals Renault's intent to revitalize the MPV segment by combining spacious, convertible interiors with advanced autonomous-ready features.
