The French automaker is once again showing the world that an electric car can mean more than just a silent mode of commuting to one’s job. While at the Roland-Garros French Open 2026, Renault unveiled its latest concept by calling it Renault 4 JP4x4, which is a bright-colored version of both an SUV and a beach buggy. The vehicle does not even have a conventional roof or complete doors; therefore, in case it happens to rain during the drive, one may get slightly drenched while still looking cool.
The vehicle design reflects the trends of the ’60s and ’70s when “leisure vehicles,” such as the Citroën Méhari and the Mini Moke, became widely popular in coastal towns. The Plein Air and the JP4 were the names of Renault’s offerings during those times. These vintage cars were pretty easy-going and fun, and this new EV aims to replicate this attitude in design. The JP4 is the fourth limited edition of Renault 4 E-Tech electric models, each one showcasing the talents of Renault’s designers when freed up from corporate obligations.
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This time, Renault designers chose Emerald Green as the color of the JP4, with a pearlescent coating, which reminds of modern interpretation of the green coating of the original 4L cars. For extra attention, the interior has been painted entirely orange, and the JP4 certainly will not blend in with any crowd. Even its doors are something else – tiny blade-like doors, making getting into the car incredibly easy.
This concept car is designed entirely outdoors. There is neither a convertible roof nor a soft-top roof. The car has a metal cross that keeps the body from warping. The rear part of the car has been cut out, creating an area similar to the bed of a pickup. It becomes great for transporting items for the beach. Renault designers added a surfboard to the roof and some skateboards to the rear area to demonstrate how it works. The tailgate can be opened like in regular trucks; it becomes easier to load heavy items.
The cabin of the car has unique seats. Their design is known as “Egyptian mummy.” It means that headrests become an integral part of the seat itself. Such seats were popular among Renault cars in the 1970s. It is interesting that the passenger’s side of the dashboard has a special grab handle. It becomes quite useful when the driver wants to make an attempt to race over a sand dune. The central console seems to hover over the floor, allowing passengers to have more legroom.
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But beneath its flashy exterior, there is some serious engineering at work. The idea includes two engines since Renault has equipped the rear axle with another electric engine to ensure all-wheel-drive capabilities. Powering all wheels allows the vehicle to cope much better with rough terrain like sandy or stone surfaces or paths without any pavement. It proves that despite their modest size, the RGEV platform can be adapted to operate not only on city roads.
Another technical characteristic is the increased ground clearance compared to the regular Renault 4 E-Tech variant. The JP4x4 model benefits from an additional 15 mm of clearance to make it able to pass over bumpy and rocky paths. Also, the tires have been moved outward, thus increasing the width of the vehicle’s track by 10 mm on both sides. It comes with 18-inch wheels mounted on special 225/55 Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+ tires capable of maintaining traction in harsh conditions.
Apart from the Zoe, there are also other models on display at Roland-Garros thanks to Renault. These include the Twingo E-Tech and Renault 5. In addition, there is also a model of Renault 4 called the Plein Sud that features a convertible roof made out of canvas. The JP4x4 model is currently only a prototype, but it may actually be produced one day based on the reactions it gets from the crowd.
