Renault unveils E-Space concept, teases electric Espace

Renault will unveil the E-Space concept at the 2026 Paris Motor Show; the company says the E in the name signals a fully electric reinterpretation of the Espace minivan.

Renault describes the E-Space as a reinterpretation of the original 1984 Espace, a model it credits with pioneering the European MPV segment.

The first-generation Espace was developed with Matra, produced from 1984 to 1990, and offered a bright, flexible cabin for up to seven seats with removable and reconfigurable rear rows and front seats that could swivel.

Early sales were slow—the first month in France saw nine units sold—but the Espace helped create demand for flexible family vehicles across Europe.

Motor1 notes an ironic element to the new concept: Renault still markets an Espace nameplate, but the sixth-generation model has become an SUV rather than a traditional minivan.

Design cues on the E-Space reference the original Espace with a boxy silhouette, short overhangs and a classic grille motif updated with LED detailing. The concept adds very large wheels, an illuminated brand badge, cameras in place of wing mirrors and wing-like flush door protrusions integrated into the beltline in place of conventional handles.

Renault has not released full technical specifications. It lists the concept’s length at 4.7 metres, roughly equal to the sixth-generation Espace SUV. The company has not confirmed battery, range or drivetrain details, and it is unclear whether the E-Space is a pure design study or a preview of a production vehicle.

If Renault moves a production E-Space to market, it would compete with other nostalgia-driven electric MPVs such as the Volkswagen ID. Buzz. The report also raises the speculative idea of an Espace F1 concept, noting that a modern V6-powered show car could be striking, though this remains conjecture.

Renault has not disclosed further specifications or a production timetable ahead of the Paris reveal.