With a slew of new electric vehicles getting launched this year, it’s refreshing to see that automakers are looking to offer something in the affordable range. The latest mulling to join this segment is Renault, as the Kwid EV has been spotted on the flatbed in Chennai. Currently, this class only offers two options, the Tata Tiago EV and the JSW MG Comet EV. If Renault plays its cards right, then the Kwid EV could be the most affordable electric vehicle in the Indian market. The French automobile manufacturer has not yet revealed the launch dates of the Kwid EV, but it will make its debut as early as the end of the year. Here’s all we know so far about Renault’s budget EV.
Renault Kwid EV: What to expect?
This isn’t the first time the Kwid EV was caught testing, but the latest image posted by TeamBhp reveals some new design elements. Earlier this month, the EV was fully revealed in spy images, but the latest one showcases the Kwid EV from the rear. Even though it is camouflaged, it has a clean rear design with Y-shaped tail lamps. The spotted EV could be an entry-level variant as it sports steel wheels.
Renault Kwid EV: Features
The Kwid EV is equipped with a range of features, including a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 7-inch fully digital driver’s display, a height-adjustable steering wheel, and an e-Shift gear lever. It offers wireless smartphone mirroring compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function. For added convenience, the Kwid EV is equipped with two USB charging ports. It also provides ample storage space with a 308-litre boot and an optional 35-litre front trunk (frunk) available as an accessory.
It will be interesting to see if Renault will offer the ADAS safety suite as the international model comes with it.
Renault Kwid EV: Battery Specifications
Based on the Dacia Spring EV, the Kwid EV will come with a 26.8 kWh battery. Like the global model, it is expected to come in two variants — the Electric 45 and Electric 65. The Electric 45 churns out 44 bhp at 2,521 – 8,200 rpm and 125 Nm at 2,521 rpm. According to Dacia, the Electric 45 trim does 0 – 100 kmph in 19.1 seconds and has a top speed of 78 kmph.
The top trim, the Electric 65 model, produces 64 bhp between 4,057 and 6,000 rpm, along with 113 Nm of torque from 500 to 4,057 rpm. According to Dacia, the Electric 65 accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 13.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 78 kmph.
Renault confirms that both EV variants offer a driving range of 225 km. When it comes to charging, the Electric 45 can recharge from 20% to 100% in under 5 hours, while the Electric 65 charges from 20% to 80% in just 45 minutes.
