Concept E-Space: finally, Renault wants to bring back a *proper* Espace MPV

A modern Renault Espace already exists, but it’s an SUV, so it doesn’t count. What doesn’t exist is a proper modern Renault Espace; one that looks like a big, friendly box that can be filled with people and things and joy.

So Renault wants to – in its own words – ‘reboot’ the long-running nameplate with something along the lines of the big, friendly box you see above. In news that’ll surprise, said rebigulation is called the Renault E-Space Concept, and even more surprisingly, it is a concept Espace.

So watch out, VW ID. Buzz and Kia PV5, because the OG is making a comeback. We namecheck those two because this concept is the same length – 4.7m – with a similarly container-esque silhouette.

That’s all we’re getting from Renault for now, along with the more surprising news that the new E-Space Concept is powered by Renault’s E-Tech, um, electric technology. Which likely means a large-ish LFP battery (because that’s the ‘accessible’ battery tech it now wants across its entire range of EVs), a motor, fast DC charging and tonnes of tech including – surprise! – AI.

Oh, there’s the stuff you can see, too: the ‘U’-shaped lights front and back (even if we can’t yet see the back), a little roof spoiler, a chunky stance and massive concept-spec wheels. Tone all of it down, stick it in a fetching shade of yellow, and you’re about there.

“With E-Space Concept, Renault is rebooting the spirit of Renault Espace, a model first launched in 1984 that has left its mark on automotive history,” said Renault. “More than 40 years on, E-Space Concept is a future-focused vision of the original, true to the approach that has always set Renault apart: innovating for the benefit of people, human emotion and the in-car experience.”

You know what’ll be thoroughly innovative, Renault? Whacking in an 3.5-litre V10 F1 block in the back and sending it around Magny-Cours. We can but hope that can exist.