The Renault 4L is a French icon, and had one of the longest production runs of any car in the world.
Made between 1961 and 1992, more than eight million examples were sold in more than 100 countries.
To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the classic 4L, Renault has helped build a concept version that can actually fly…
Swapping wheels for propellers
Built in collaboration with radical retail brand TheArsenale, the AIR4 is said to be a ‘modern reinterpretation’ of the original Renault 4.
The bodywork of the concept is made entirely from carbon fibre. Access to the cabin is through the body shell hinging open, with a simple cockpit and storage space inside.
Four twin-blade propellers are used for propulsion, with lithium-ion battery packs providing the power. Weighing just 380kg, the AIR4 can reach an altitude of 700 metres. During level flight, it can achieve nearly 60mph.
An eternal cultural icon
Like the original, the AIR4 has been entirely designed and produced in France. For Patrice Meignan, CEO and Founder of TheArsenale, the AIR4 has been a passion project.
“I have dedicated my life to the passion for mobility and I continually explore all aspects of the moving world,” says Meignan.
He added: “After 25 years of forward-looking research, we believe that the icons of car culture are eternal, whether on earth or in the air. For 60 years, the Renault 4 has been driven by ordinary people who make it extraordinary. It is a car that symbolises adventure: simple, practical, useful and as modern as it is retro.”
The AIR4 is set to go on display in Renault’s flagship Paris store until the end of the year. It will then travel to Miami, New York, and finally Macau.
Sadly, for now at least, the AIR4 remains a commemorative concept only.
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