This eclectic assortment of modern transportation devices is a vibrant tribute to the charm of French innovation and eccentricity. Titled ‘4 Movements,’ this project has been crafted by the creative agency TheArsenale to celebrate the debut of the new Renault 4 E-Tech, which made its first appearance at the 2024 Paris Motor Show. Founded by Patrice Meignan, TheArsenale has curated a selection of four transportation start-ups, each reflecting the timeless and rugged aesthetic that Renault aspires to embody with the R4.
Meignan expresses the essence of the project, stating, “4 Movements represents everything we believe in at TheArsenale – pushing boundaries, honouring legacy, and reshaping what mobility can be.” This initiative builds upon a previous collaboration, ‘5 Movements,’ which accompanied the launch of the Renault 5 E-Tech. It highlights Renault’s renaissance in both design and creative partnerships, including the standout Ora-ïto-designed Renault 17 restomod unveiled earlier in 2024.
The four featured companies collectively represent air, sea, and land transportation, with each design elegantly finished in the Cloud Blue hue that first graced the original Renault 4 when it was introduced in 1962. The lighting and materials used in these designs are also inspired by the new electric vehicle, creating a cohesive aesthetic that pays homage to the brand’s heritage.
Renault’s global chief marketing officer, Arnaud Belloni, proudly states, “We are thrilled to partner with four French start-ups showcasing four all-electric means of mobility.” This collaboration serves as a stylish demonstration of how e-mobility has evolved to encompass a diverse range of transportation options, inviting the public to explore the future of sustainable travel.
First on the list is Aura Aero, a start-up from Toulouse, showcasing its Integral E, an electric two-seater private aircraft that serves as a stepping stone towards zero-emission aviation. Measuring just 7.26 meters in length with a wingspan of 8.78 meters, the Integral E boasts a flight duration of one hour and can be fully recharged in under thirty minutes.
Next, we have the caravan crafted by Nantes-based Carapate Aventure, inspired by the classic American teardrop travel trailer. Weighing in at a mere 560 kg, this ultra-light caravan comfortably accommodates two people and can be effortlessly towed by an electric vehicle. It features a standard indoor-outdoor kitchen and a versatile interior that can be transformed to suit various needs.
Ateliers HeritageBike produces stunningly robust electric bikes and motorbikes, merging vintage aesthetics with a tough, adventurous spirit reminiscent of 1980s off-road bikes. The Heritage Spirit Scrambler, highlighted here, offers a standard range of 110 km and is meticulously handcrafted at the company’s facility in Annecy.
Lastly, we have Searider, which focuses on water e-bikes. Its Seacruiser model is equipped with dual 22 kW electric motors, reaching speeds of up to 55 km/h. With a runtime of up to 90 minutes, it features design elements inspired by the R4, particularly its distinctive headlight, which it shares with the Heritage Spirit Scrambler.
All four models presented are aimed at small-scale production, with initial orders being taken at the Paris show. The goal is to have each vehicle ready for launch by spring 2025, coinciding with the debut of the first Renault 4 EVs on the roads.