New Model Presentation
Low-quality images of the new Renault Twingo E-Tech appeared online earlier this week, confirming that the production version retained the appeal of the 2023 concept. However, those shots revealed only part of the information.
Today, Renault officially presented its compact electric car and revealed all the technical details that demonstrate whether the Twingo has not only style but also technical refinement.
We will not dwell in detail on the exterior, given the previous information leak and the fact that everyone can independently assess the attractiveness of the design, including the original LED headlights and conventional door handles instead of the stylish but less practical ones from the concept.
However, it can be confidently said that the car’s design is successful regardless of whether you remember the original 1993 model, and in our opinion, it significantly surpasses competitors such as the BYD Dolphin Surf.
Technical Basis
What is hidden under the hood? Renault kept it simple by using a shortened version of the AmpR Small platform, which is also used in the 4, 5, and Nissan Micra models. However, while the Renault 5 offers a choice of 40 or 52 kWh batteries, the Twingo E-Tech is equipped with a smaller 27.5 kWh battery, which helps reduce cost and emphasize its urban purpose.
Small Battery, But Sufficient Range
According to the manufacturer, the battery uses a new type of chemical composition, less dependent on cobalt and nickel, providing a range of 262 km according to the WLTP standard. This is more than the VW ID. Every1 concept, which is the predecessor of the future ID. Up.
DC charging speed is limited to 50 kW, but this should be considered in the context of the small battery capacity. Thanks to this, charging from 10% to 80% takes only about 30 minutes.
Car Dynamics
The power and performance figures are also modest but sufficient for a city car. Probably, over time, Renault will offer additional powertrain options, but at the start of sales, the model will be equipped with a single 81 hp engine and 175 Nm of torque.
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 12.1 seconds, but it should be remembered that the primary environment for using the Twingo is the city, not race tracks.
Compactness and Space
The main advantage of the model is not the engine, but the placement of components. With a length of 3,790 mm and a wheelbase of 2,490 mm, the Twingo provides enough space for adult passengers, making it a competitor to larger cars.
Thanks to two independent rear seats that can be slid up to 170 mm, the driver can adjust the legroom or luggage space.
The trunk volume is 360 liters, and with the rear seats folded down – over 1,000 liters. These are impressive figures: the Fiat 500e has half the volume, the Renault 5 offers only 326 liters, and even the larger VW Golf has 381 liters.
Furthermore, even with a loaded trunk, access remains to an additional 50-liter compartment under the floor.
Interior and Technology
In the interior, Renault tried to preserve as many concept elements as possible while reducing production costs. The car’s price is expected to be less than £20,000 in the UK, and in Europe, the model may cost around €20,000, making it a competitor to the BYD Dolphin Surf.
The dashboard has a colorful finish, and the roof hides a pattern with the Twingo alphabet. The gear selector is made in the form of a stylized lipstick tube, adding individuality to the car.
Technology is represented by a 7-inch digital instrument panel and a 10-inch central screen, which in higher trim levels supports Google Maps and Google Assistant.
Additionally, the Twingo has its own avatar assistant named Reno, which helps with charging information and answers questions. The car also has an electronic welcome melody created with the participation of Jean-Michel Jarre.
Model Prospects
In summary, the Twingo has an attractive design, a large luggage compartment, but modest range and dynamics figures. However, if Renault can keep the price low, the model has every chance to become popular and even compete with the more expensive Renault 5 E-Tech.
It will be interesting to compare how the Twingo will look against the backdrop of the future VW ID.Up when both models compete for buyers in 2026.
The planned price and technical specifications make the Twingo E-Tech one of the most affordable electric cars on the market. Given the growing popularity of compact urban models, it could become an ideal choice for residents of large cities looking for an economical and eco-friendly vehicle. Furthermore, despite the small battery, the sufficient range and fast charging make it practical for daily use.