Before adopting the logo signed Vasarely, in 1972, Renault used another emblem for a few months, which it was ordered to abandon following a legal dispute with Kent. This diamond only exists on a handful of R5, R15 and R17.
It will not have escaped your notice that Renault recently renewed its logo, taking up the style of the emblem designed by Vasarely in 1972 for a refreshed diamond that was inaugurated by the concept of the electric R5 and the new Mégane E-Tech Electric. But did you know that the famous Vasarely logo, which was used until 1992, had been ordered by Renault in an emergency to replace a prohibited logo? In 1971, it is indeed another design that the manufacturer had chosen for its new vehicles.
TO READ. Renault. A constantly evolving logo since 1898
Did Renault “steal” its 1971 logo?
In 1971, Renault presented the R15 and R17, then the R5, with a very refined diamond at the end of their hood. Compared to the previous one, the horizontal lines and the name of the manufacturer have disappeared from the interior area, leaving only an empty quadrilateral with nevertheless thickened lines. But the Kent company, an automotive supplier and brand of car care products, finds that the new Renault emblem resembles (too) strongly its own symbol, that we would have rotated 90 °. The company therefore instructs its lawyers to put pressure on the Régie to change its icon. A dispute that Polestar meets today in France with Citroën.
A handful of “banned” cars remain
Despite Kent’s attacks, the first Renault 15, 17 and 5 left the factory decorated with the diamond of discord. But, in court, Renault was finally banned from using it and forced to replace it. Vasarely is therefore called to the rescue to find a new drawing.
Cars already sold return to the workshop to be rebadged, and the now famous logo with lines of several thicknesses is adopted. But some cars have fallen through the cracks and are now real collectors.
TO READ. Renault. The manufacturer’s and clubs’ stand at Epoqu’auto 2021
