Renault Kwid EV Launch By 2025 Confirmed: Read All Details

Renault is gearing up to introduce the Renault Kwid EV in the Indian market within the next 12-18 months. This upcoming electric vehicle, priced under Rs 10 lakh, will utilize a modified version of the existing Kwid platform that has been enhanced to accommodate the electric powertrain. As an electric car, the Kwid EV is likely to feature distinct design elements such as revised bumpers, lights, and grille to reflect its electric nature.

Let's look at what the Kwid EV will offer at its launch and some more details.

Renault Kwid EV Confirmed

Currently, the Kwid EV is on sale in international markets under brand names like Dacia and Dongfeng. In India, it will retain the Kwid moniker with added EV tagging. However, the highlight of the upcoming EV is the affordability, with under 10 lakh rupees pricing. On top of this, it could also be the most affordable EV in the Indian market.

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"We are going ahead with our EV plans," says Venkatram Mamillapalle, MD of Renault India, in a conversation with a media outlet. "The EV for India is built around the CMF-A platform, and you may see it in 2024 or 2025. We are trying our best to bring it at the earliest, but the exact timeline is not yet firmed up. Renaults first EV for India is likely to come with a localization level of 55-60 percent to begin with. However, the company is very keen on sourcing batteries and cells locally to bring down the cost to ensure higher penetration for Renaults EVs in the future."

Renault Kwid EV- What Changes?

The global version of the Kwid EV undergoes substantial modifications to transform it from an ICE car to an electric vehicle. This includes the removal of the rear fuel tank and the installation of a flat floor to accommodate the battery. Furthermore, the structure is reinforced as well to support the added weight of the battery. Alterations are also made to the suspension system to handle the increased load of the battery. These changes are essential to adapt the existing Kwid platform for electric propulsion and optimize its performance as an electric car.

Battery, Power, And Range

The European version of the Kwid EV comes with a 44hp electric motor and a 26.8kWh battery pack, providing it with a claimed city range of 295km on the WLTP cycle. The compact size of the battery contributes to quicker charging times, as stated by the manufacturer. However, it's important to note that the specifications for the Indian variant of the Kwid EV may vary based on market requirements and preferences.

Meanwhile, the company is currently engaged in discussions with various Indian suppliers to procure battery cells. The aim is to achieve localization of these cells within the next few years. The goal of the company is to achieve a significant level of local manufacturing, targeting around 85-90 percent, once this localization process is successfully established.

At the time of launch, it will face tough heat from the likes of Tata Tiago EV, Citroen eC3, and more. However, pricing plays a major role in deciding the fate of this upcoming electric vehicle.

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