The novelty is inspired by two historical versions of the Renault 4 — the Plein Air from 1969 and the JP4 from 1981. The name JP4x4 stands for Journée à la Plage, meaning "day at the beach".
Unlike the production R4 E-Tech, the concept lost its rear doors and features a shortened two-door body with half doors. The roof was also completely redesigned: an open frame with an X-shaped element for carrying a surfboard appeared.
There are no side windows or soft roof at all. The interior is constantly open to sun, dust, and rain — just like the classic beach buggies of the 1970s.
An electric car for surfing and skateboards
Renault made the concept as "vacation-ready" as possible. The body is painted emerald green, contrasting with the bright orange interior. At the back, an open cargo area with a folding tailgate was added, so the R4 JP4x4 simultaneously serves as a small pickup. A surfboard was installed on the roof, and a pair of skateboards were placed in the luggage area.
All-wheel drive and increased clearance
Technically, the concept is close to last year's show car Renault 4 Savane 4x4 Concept. The JP4x4 uses a dual-motor powertrain with all-wheel drive, although the production R4 E-Tech is currently only available with front-wheel drive.
The clearance was increased by 15 mm, and the track was widened by 10 mm on each side. The concept also received 18-inch wheels with Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+ tires.
In the cabin, Renault retained the production model's digital instrument panel but added new seats with integrated headrests and a "floating" type center console.
There will be no production version
Renault has confirmed that the JP4x4 will remain a single prototype with no plans for mass production. The concept will be showcased at the Roland-Garros tennis tournament alongside the production R4, R5, and Twingo E-Tech electric cars.
For those still wanting a more open R4, the company already offers a Plein Sud version with an electric soft top. Its starting price in France is about €37,000.