Summary
- Dacia is developing a new electric city car based on the same platform as the Renault Twingo EV
- The development cycle for the new Dacia EV will be unusually short at 16 months, with a targeted release in 2026
- The new Dacia EV will cost €18,000, which is about €2,000 more than its Renault counterpart
- Dacia aims to improve on the Spring model with more room, better technology, and European manufacturing to bypass import tariffs
- The new Dacia EV will share components with the Renault Twingo EV, with both models aiming for affordability and simplicity in design and construction
Article
Introduction
Dacia, owned by Renault, is set to release a new electric city car in 2026, built on the same platform as the Renault Twingo EV. Despite a short 16-month development cycle, the Dacia EV is expected to offer more room and better technology compared to its predecessor, the Spring. Priced at €18,000 ($18,800), the new model aims to compete in the affordable electric vehicle market segment.
Dacia’s Electric Vehicle Success
Dacia found success in the electric vehicle market in Europe with its affordable Spring model, selling over 140,000 units between 2021 and 2024. However, the Spring faced challenges as it was manufactured in China through a joint venture, resulting in import tariffs for European sales. To address this issue, Dacia is designing its own electric model to be manufactured in Europe, offering improved features and performance over the Spring.
Development Process and Pricing
Dacia CEO Denis Le Vot revealed that the new electric A-segment model is being developed within a short 16-month period, targeting a price point of €18,000 or $18,800. The new model is expected to address the weaknesses of the Spring, offering more room and enhanced technology. With a teaser sketch previewing the design, Dacia plans to offer both a standard hatchback model and a raised Stepway variant to attract a wider range of buyers.
Platform and Cost Savings
The new Dacia EV will share its underpinnings with the Renault Twingo EV, which showcases a design inspired by 1990s nostalgia. The use of the same platform as the Twingo allows for cost savings, with Renault aiming to reduce manufacturing costs by 40% compared to traditional vehicles. Dacia is exploring further cost-saving measures to offer a competitive price point for the new electric city car.
Production and Release
It is yet to be determined whether the new Dacia EV will be manufactured at the company’s Romanian plant or on the same assembly line as the Renault Twingo. The model is expected to debut and go on sale in 2026, a year ahead of the next-generation Sandero which will also include a fully electric variant. The release of multiple electric models demonstrates Dacia’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle lineup and cater to the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions.
Conclusion
The upcoming Dacia EV represents the brand’s efforts to establish a strong presence in the affordable electric vehicle market segment in Europe. With a focus on efficient development processes, cost-saving measures, and improved features, the new model aims to build on the success of the Spring while addressing its shortcomings. As Dacia continues to innovate and expand its electric vehicle offerings, it is poised to compete effectively in the evolving automotive industry landscape with sustainable and accessible mobility solutions.
Read the full article here
