Renault Kwid EV, a rebadged Dacia Spring, is spied testing in India. Expect an affordable electric car with 220 km range launching in 2025. Details inside.
Table of Contents
Renault Kwid EV Spied Testing: Affordable Electric Car Launching in 2025
The Indian electric vehicle (EV) market is heating up, and Renault is preparing to make a significant impact with its upcoming Kwid EV. Recently spotted on a flatbed truck near Chennai port, this new electric car promises to be a game-changer in the affordable EV segment.
With a competitive price expected to be below Rs 7 lakh (ex-showroom) and no battery rental scheme, the Renault Kwid EV aims to make electric mobility accessible to a broader audience.
Renault’s Commitment to Green Mobility in India
Renault has been steadily increasing its focus on green mobility solutions in India. The company recently introduced CNG retrofit kits priced at Rs 74,999 for all its vehicles, signalling its commitment to environmentally friendly transportation options. The Kwid EV is the next step in Renault’s strategy to offer sustainable and affordable vehicles tailored to Indian consumers’ needs.
This move aligns with India’s broader push towards electric mobility, supported by government incentives and growing consumer interest in EVs. Renault’s entry into the affordable EV segment with the Kwid EV could accelerate the adoption of electric cars in urban and semi-urban areas.
The Renault Kwid EV: What Is It?
The Renault Kwid EV is essentially a rebadged version of the Dacia Spring EV, a popular electric car in Europe. The Dacia Spring has been tested in India since August 2024, but when launched locally, it will carry the Renault badge and the Kwid nameplate. This strategy leverages the Kwid’s already strong brand recall in India, where it has been a popular compact hatchback.
Unlike the Duster SUV, which Renault has decided not to launch in India in 2025, the Kwid EV is positioned as a practical, affordable electric vehicle for everyday use. It targets buyers looking for a budget-friendly EV without the complications of battery leasing or rental schemes.
Spy Shots Reveal Key Details About the Kwid EV
The latest spy shots show the Kwid EV test mule strapped on a flatbed truck, indicating it is undergoing final testing and certification. The vehicle was spotted near Chennai port, a common location for automotive testing and regulatory approvals.
From the images, several features stand out: rear tail lights, a rear washer and wiper, steel wheels, and a shark-fin antenna. The car is heavily camouflaged, so finer design details remain hidden, but the overall shape and size suggest it retains the compact, city-friendly dimensions of the original Kwid.
Expected Specifications and Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery Pack | 26.8 kWh |
| Driving Range | Up to 220 km (single charge) |
| Motor Power | Approx. 64 bhp |
| Dashboard | Fully digital TFT instrument cluster with EV-specific info |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | Below Rs 7 lakh (without BaaS) |
The Kwid EV is expected to be powered by a single electric motor producing around 64 bhp, which is sufficient for city driving and short commutes. The 26.8 kWh battery pack should provide a driving range of up to 220 km on a single charge, making it practical for daily use and short trips.
Inside, the car will likely feature a modern dashboard with a fully digital TFT instrument cluster. This display will provide real-time information on battery status, range, and other EV-specific data, enhancing the driving experience and making it easier for owners to manage their vehicle’s energy consumption.
How Does the Kwid EV Compare to Competitors?
India’s electric car market is still in its early stages but growing rapidly. Currently, the affordable EV segment includes models like the MG Comet EV and Tata Tiago EV. The MG Comet EV is priced at Rs 7.36 lakh without Battery as a Service (BaaS), while the Tata Tiago EV starts at Rs 7.99 lakh.
Renault’s Kwid EV aims to disrupt this segment by offering a more affordable option without the complexity of battery rental schemes. This could make EV ownership simpler and more attractive to first-time electric car buyers.
| Model | Price (Ex-showroom) | Battery Rental | Driving Range (km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renault Kwid EV | Below Rs 7 lakh | No | Up to 220 |
| MG Comet EV | Rs 7.36 lakh | Optional | Approx. 150-200 |
| Tata Tiago EV | Rs 7.99 lakh | No | Approx. 250 |
The Kwid EV’s competitive pricing and decent range could make it a preferred choice for urban commuters and budget-conscious buyers looking to switch to electric.
What to Expect at Launch?
While Renault has not officially confirmed the launch date, industry experts expect the Kwid EV to arrive sometime in 2026. This timeline follows the launch of Renault’s other updated models, including the Duster, Kiger facelift, and Triber facelift.
The recent sighting near Chennai port suggests the vehicle is in the final stages of testing and certification, possibly heading for approval from the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).
Why the Kwid EV Matters for India’s EV Future
The Renault Kwid EV represents a crucial step in making electric vehicles more accessible to the average Indian consumer. By offering a no-frills, affordable EV with a practical range and no battery rental, Renault is addressing two major barriers to EV adoption: cost and complexity.
If priced right, the Kwid EV could accelerate the shift towards electric mobility in India, especially in tier 2 and tier 3 cities where affordability is key. It also complements the government’s vision of reducing pollution and dependence on fossil fuels.
