Category
Autos
Adventure Downsizing
Trend cluster
Category
Modern
Retro
Automotive manufacturers are launching retro-inspired designs with modern EV features.
4.6
Trend score
Trend
What is the Modern Retro trend?
Modern Retro: Automotive manufacturers are launching new vehicles inspired by retro designs. These cars blend retro aesthetics with modern features, such as electric engines, network connectivity, or motion sensors. Often limited-edition products, these vehicles capture nostalgia without compromising on comforts.
Insight
The consumer insight behind the Modern Retro trend
While more consumers adopt electric vehicles (EVs) each year, there are still large subsets of drivers that prefer traditional gas-powered vehicles. Whether due to aesthetics or function, these consumers are hesitant to adopt EVs, despite these vehicles often being more environmentally friendly, having lower costs of ownership, and having more modern features. In an attempt to accelerate EV adoption amongst these consumers, brands are tapping into retro designs to capitalize on nostalgia.
Trend themes
Themes within the Modern Retro trend
Three behaviours holding the trend together01
Retro-Inspired EV Designs
New vehicles draw from retro aesthetics while integrating modern electric features to resonate with nostalgic consumers.
02
Limited-Edition Electric Cars
Auto manufacturers create exclusive runs of EVs that blend nostalgic design with cutting-edge technology for a unique market appeal.
03
Racing Heritage Revival
Automakers tap into iconic race car designs from the past, modernizing them with electric drivetrains to commemorate motor racing history.
Industry implications
What the Modern Retro trend means for industry
Where the trend changes the playbookFor
Automotive Manufacturing
The ongoing fusion of nostalgic design elements with modern electric vehicle technology is transforming car production standards.
For
Electric Vehicle Technology
Advancements focused on merging retro styling with state-of-the-art EV capabilities offer new competitive edges in the market.
For
Luxury and Collectible Cars
Creating limited-edition, retro-inspired electric vehicles provides a unique value proposition for both luxury and collectible car markets.
Workshop question
How could your brand incorporate nostalgia into its products or services without compromising on its quality?
Trend signals
Trend signals for Modern Retro
Trend score 4.6 out of 10, from popularity 52%, activity 63%, freshness 24%.
Popularity52%
Activity63%
Freshness24%
Audience
70%Men
30%Women
- Gen Alpha (not a primary audience)
- Gen Z
- Millennial
- Gen X
- Boomer (not a primary audience)
Market
North America
Europe
Asia-Pacific
Evidence
Examples of the Modern Retro trend
4 featured examples from Sep 22, 2022 to Apr 3, 2024CategoryAutos
Charged Electric Hatchbacks
Renault Re-Launched its R5 Turbo with an Electric Drivetrain
The automotive industry can take advantage of the trend by launching similar electric retro cars with advanced specs to cater to the niche audience.
CategoryAutos
Modern Electrified Retro Automobiles
Shane Baxley Designs the TWO8eSL Reinterpretation
The TWO8eSL design represents an opportunity for automotive designers to explore retro-inspired concepts with modern features, meeting the demand for nostalgic aesthetics in the m…
CategoryAutos
Retro-Styled Electric Convertibles
The Lightweight 'Carice TC2' Prioritizes Nostalgic Aesthetics
The introduction of the 'Carice TC2' demonstrates a unique approach to combining electric technology and retro aesthetics in the automotive industry.
CategoryAutos
Retro Car Design Houses
Rezvani will Debut its Retro Brand with the 'RR1' Coupe
Embracing retro design elements in vehicle production can differentiate brands and attract consumers seeking a blend of tradition and innovation.
