The Renault Voiturette (Renault Little Car) was Renault’s first ever produced automobile, and was manufactured between 1898 and 1903
Renault Type A – 1898
It all began in 1898, with the Type A, Renault’s first vehicle. On his buggy-like car, Louis Renault drove up Montmartre hill along the steep street Rue Lepic. The vehicle’s innovative direct-drive gearbox and front-end engine gave the Type A features of today’s cars. Enthralled by its driving simplicity and lightness, onlookers on Rue Lepic placed their orders. The Type A was not originally intended for sale, yet this embodiment of Louis Renault’s bold, pioneering spirit it sparked the firm Renault Frères
Renault Type A, which is the first car produced by Renault in 1898. It features a distinctive design typical of early automobiles, including a brass radiator, a boxy body, and large spoked wheels. This classic vehicle marks the beginning of Renault’s long history in the automotive industry.
The Renault Type A, produced in 1898, has the following specifications:
- Engine: Single-cylinder De Dion-Bouton
- Displacement: 273 cc (0.27 L)
- Power Output: 1.75 horsepower at 450 rpm
- Top Speed: Approximately 20 km/h (12 mph)
- Transmission: 3-speed manual
- Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive
- Body Style: Two-seater, open-top design
- Weight: Approximately 350 kg (772 lbs)
Renault Type B – 1899
Wanting to make sure his customers were comfortable, Louis Renault introduced the Type B, often considered to be one of the world’s first cars with an interior driving position. While offering features of the Type A (direct-drive gearbox, driveshaft transmission), the Type B was a more powerful model. Its closed bodywork protected passengers from bad weather: users could do without their fur coats, which had been vital for driving in wind, rain and snow.
- Production Year: 1899
- Manufacturer: Renault
- Engine: Single-cylinder, 450 cc, producing around 3.5 horsepower
- Top Speed: Approximately 20-25 km/h (12-16 mph)
- Design: The vehicle had a simple design with a carriage-like body, and it featured a front-mounted engine.
- Transmission: The Type B used a direct-drive transmission with a belt drive.