A digital artist has created a modernized rendering of the Renault Espace F1, and it’s got us itching for one. The rendering is based on the concept model that Renault unveiled at the 1994 Paris Motor Show to celebrate the nameplate’s 10th anniversary and the French automaker’s involvement in Formula One. Nothing came out of the Espace F1, but 27 years later, it’s still fondly remembered as one of the gnarliest minivan concept vehicles ever showcased at an auto show.
The rendering created by artist Alexandre Gouraud from the sketches of fellow artist Laurent Schmidt is based on the current version of the Espace. The design is far more aggressive than the current production Espace. That’s understandable considering the Espace F1 was developed to showcase what a super minivan with Formula One technology could be all about.
Gouraud and Schmidt did a great job being faithful to the original concept’s look while also applying fresh design elements that go well with the current Espace’s aesthetics. The aggressive splitters, massive rear wing, lower ride height, and generous use and placement of carbon fiber are all solid hat tips to the 1994 concept.
No mention was made on powertrain, but for consistency’s sake, the modern rendering of the Espace would likely have a powertrain that’s as crazy as the one Renault used in the original concept from 1994.
Don’t count on Renault bringing the concept back to life, but if it did, it should come in the form of a hybrid or an all-out EV with a powertrain setup that’s good for around 1,000 horsepower.