Geneva returns to the motor show calendar

The Geneva International Motor Show Is back to Switzerland and Anagh Bhaskar brings you the highlights

- Anagh Bhaskar

The Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) has been, since 1905, arguably the greatest and most influential automotive exhibition on the planet. However, post the pandemic the 2020, 2021 and the 2022 shows were cancelled due to health safety norms. Having entered into an agreement with Qatar, the 2023 show was held in Doha last year.

This year marked the first return of the show to Geneva after the pandemic. However, almost every major automaker skipped the show, which has been the site for almost every major car launch and announcement for the past few decades. Chinese automakers though were in heavy attendance as these brands continue to push expansion in the lucrative European market.

THE FRENCH auto major revealed the productionspec Renault 5 E-Tech EV at Geneva. This honours the iconic Renault 5 and is more or less similar to the concept car which was unveiled a few years ago. This is based on the AmpR Small platform, which is a new-gen platform for small electric vehicles. The design of the car is a futuristic adaptation of the Renault 5’s design with a rectangular theme which also includes really cool looking LED signature lights on the lower section.

The taillamps are stacked vertically, and overall the car inspires a playful theme with the choice of vibrant colours. The cabin is a modern take on the older car’s theme mixed with vibrant colours, and has been made with sustainable materials. Renault will be offering two battery packs one 40kWh and a larger 52kWh pack. The company offers three e-motor configurations - 94bhp, 121bhp and a 147bhp motor with the last one capable of helping the car hit 100kmph in 8 seconds. Moreover the claimed range sits at 300km for the smaller battery and 400km for the larger battery.