Renault is preparing an update to its two compact electric cars, the R4 and R5, which should be unveiled in late 2026 or early 2027, Autocar reports.

The main changes will concern their electric engines, which will become more powerful and more economical. The R5—released in 2024—and the R4—presented in early 2025—are built on the same AmpR Small platform and use second-generation electric engines. Currently, two powertrain options are offered for them. The base version of the R5 Urban Range is equipped with a 121-horsepower engine and a 40 kWh battery.

The more expensive Comfort Range version has a 148-horsepower engine and a 52 kWh battery. In the UK, the R4 crossover is available only in the Comfort Range version.

Depending on the addition, the Renault R5 has a range of about 310–405 km. In the case of the larger R4, this is slightly lower, at about 402 km in the maximum version.

Renault is now working on a new upgraded version of the engines, which has been called Gen 2 Evo. These engines are being created taking into account the experience of developing more advanced powertrains for future Scenic and Megane models, which are expected closer to 2028.

According to Marianne Bataillon, Renault’s director of EV motor and battery development, the main focus is on increasing efficiency and optimizing components such as the inverter and gearbox. This should simultaneously increase power and reduce energy consumption. The updated engines will enable the R4 and R5 to remain competitive amid new models from other manufacturers.

Meanwhile, this new technology is already being partially implemented in the future Renault Twingo urban model, which will be introduced at the end of the year, although its engine power will be reduced to 80 horsepower due to its focus on urban operation.