
Renault is backing a fan-built LEGO® version of its spectacular Renault 5 Turbo 3E, and is calling on the public to help turn it into an official set.
Created by British LEGO® designer Dave Collins, known as devonbricks on Instagram, the model brings Renault’s most extreme road car to life in miniature. The Renault 5 Turbo 3E – a 555hp, all-electric “mini-supercar” with a limited production run – is already one of the boldest expressions of the brand’s modern line-up. Now, Renault wants to see that same energy translated into LEGO®.
Collins’ model captures in striking detail the exaggerated stance, aggressive proportions and unmistakable silhouette that define the R5T3E. Built from around 1,200 pieces, his creation is the result of around a hundred of hours of work.
Now submitted to the LEGO® Ideas platform, it needs 10,000 supporters to progress to the next stage, where it could be selected for production as an official LEGO® set. Renault is urging fans of the brand, the original Renault 5, the new Renault 5 and LEGO® itself to get behind the project and help make it happen.
Collins, an engineer from Newton Abbot in Devon, began creating his own LEGO® designs during lockdown in 2020, driven by a passion for precision and problem-solving.
“I had LEGO® and Technic as a kid, and as an engineer I have an inherent need to design, and love getting details right,” he said.
“Angular cars are easier to do in LEGO®, so the R5 was a natural choice. Plus it looks great, and it’s immediately recognisable as an update of the eighties classic. I’ve certainly tried to race a few off the lights in my youth.”
The response so far has been overwhelming. “I am totally blown away,” Collins added. “Some of the early coverage has already been amazing, and I can’t believe I’ve got national journalists from around the world following me on Insta. My wife and daughter are insanely proud of me – I guess this is the result of six years and many hundreds of hours of hard work refining my LEGO® designs.”
For Collins, the possibility of taking the next step would be a dream come true. “If LEGO® were to consider it, that would be a great boost… and who knows where that might lead. If they actually made a set, I think that would be great for LEGO®, Renault and for me. The car is iconic with people who grew up in the eighties, and the look and power of the electric R5 appeal to all ages now, so I truly believe it would be a success.”
With Renault now firmly behind the idea, the next move belongs to the fans. Supporters can back the LEGO® Renault 5 Turbo 3E on the LEGO® Ideas platform, helping it reach the 10,000 votes needed for official consideration. If successful, it would transform a one-off passion project into a set that enthusiasts around the world can build for themselves.
To support the project and help bring the LEGO® model to life, supporters must first sign up for a free LEGO® account, and then place their vote by visiting Dave’s creator page.
For more information on the full-size Renault 5 Turbo 3E and the chance to reserve and customise one of your own, visit: https://www.renault.co.uk/electric-vehicles/r5-turbo-3e.html