Renault Kwid EV: In a significant development for the Indian automotive market, the much-anticipated Renault Kwid EV has been spotted undergoing road tests in India.
This electric version of the popular Kwid hatchback is set to make its debut in 2026, marking Renault’s entry into the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) segment in India. With its launch, Renault aims to compete with established players like Tata Motors and MG Motor in the affordable EV space.
Introduction
The Indian automotive landscape is rapidly evolving, with electric vehicles gaining significant traction. As the government pushes for cleaner mobility solutions, automakers are racing to introduce affordable electric cars. Renault, a key player in the Indian market, is set to join this race with the electric version of its popular Kwid hatchback.
Renault Kwid EV: What We Know So Far
The Renault Kwid EV, spotted testing on Indian roads, is expected to be based on the CMF-A platform, which also underpins the current ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) version of the Kwid. This electric variant is likely to share its powertrain with the Dacia Spring EV, which is already available in European markets.
Key points:
- Expected launch: 2026
- Platform: CMF-A (modified for EV application)
- Powertrain: Shared with Dacia Spring EV
- Target market: Affordable EV segment
Design and Features
While the test mules were heavily camouflaged, certain design elements were discernible:
- Exterior:
- Similar silhouette to the current Kwid
- Redesigned front grille (closed-off design typical of EVs)
- New LED headlamps and DRLs
- Aerodynamic wheel covers
- Interior:
- Expected to feature a large touchscreen infotainment system
- Digital instrument cluster
- New gear selector design for the EV drivetrain
- Possible inclusion of connected car features
- Safety Features:
- Dual airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Rear parking sensors
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
Expected Performance and Range
Based on the specifications of the Dacia Spring EV, we can make educated guesses about the Renault Kwid EV’s performance:
- Battery: 26.8 kWh lithium-ion pack
- Power: Around 44 bhp (Electric 45 variant) or 64 bhp (Electric 65 variant)
- Torque: Expected to be between 113-125 Nm
- Range: Approximately 225-250 km on a single charge (ARAI certified)
- Charging Time:
- Standard charger: 8-10 hours (0-100%)
- Fast charger: 80% in about 50 minutes
Pricing and Variants
Renault is expected to position the Kwid EV competitively in the Indian market. Here’s a speculative pricing structure based on industry insights:
| Variant | Expected Price Range (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| Base | ₹7.00 lakh – ₹7.50 lakh |
| Mid | ₹7.50 lakh – ₹8.00 lakh |
| Top | ₹8.00 lakh – ₹8.50 lakh |
Note: Actual prices may vary at the time of launch.
Comparison with Competitors
The Renault Kwid EV will enter a market with established players. Here’s how it might stack up against its main competitors:
| Feature | Renault Kwid EV (Expected) | Tata Tiago EV | MG Comet EV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Range | 225-250 km | 250-315 km | 230 km |
| Battery Capacity | 26.8 kWh | 19.2 kWh/24 kWh | 17.3 kWh |
| Power | 44-64 bhp | 60-74 bhp | 41 bhp |
| Price Range | ₹7.00 – ₹8.50 lakh | ₹8.69 – ₹11.99 lakh | ₹7.98 – ₹9.98 lakh |
Customer Reviews and Expectations
While the Renault Kwid EV is yet to be launched, customer reviews of the ICE version and expectations for the EV variant provide valuable insights:
- Abhigyan Rai (via CarDekho): “Nice car, good experience. Great service and build quality. Mileage is also very good. Service center nearby for maintenance and good safety features also especially for children and women.” Source
- Rajat (via CarDekho): “In the entry-level EV and 5 lakh price range, this car will be a game-changer in the Indian market where value and affordability are the main concerns of customers. Moreover, for daily commuting, it’s best in size for Indian roads. Desperately waiting to spend 5 lakh on this EV.” Source
- Muhammed Sahad (via CarDekho): “This car is perfect for small families on a budget. Its spacious interior gives the feeling of a much larger vehicle, while its exterior resembles a luxurious SUV. Plus, its impressive range adds to its appeal.” Source
These reviews highlight the expectations of affordability, good build quality, and practicality for Indian conditions.
Expert Opinion
Automotive expert Rajesh Khanna shares his thoughts on the upcoming Renault Kwid EV:
“The Renault Kwid EV has the potential to be a game-changer in the Indian EV market. Its success will largely depend on three factors: pricing, range, and after-sales service. If Renault can price it competitively, offer a real-world range of over 200 km, and ensure a robust service network, they could have a winner on their hands. The Kwid’s existing popularity and Renault’s experience with EVs in Europe could give them an edge. However, they’ll need to move quickly, as the affordable EV space is heating up rapidly in India.”
Charging Infrastructure in India
The success of the Renault Kwid EV, like any electric vehicle in India, is closely tied to the availability of charging infrastructure. As of 2025, India has made significant strides in this area:
- Public Charging Stations: Over 10,000 across the country
- Fast Charging Corridors: Established on major highways
- Home Charging Solutions: Increasingly available and affordable
Renault is expected to partner with charging infrastructure providers to ensure a seamless experience for Kwid EV owners.
Conclusion
The Renault Kwid EV represents a significant step in India’s electric mobility journey. With its expected launch in 2026, it has the potential to democratize electric vehicles in the country, much like its ICE counterpart did for entry-level cars.
Key takeaways:
- Affordable pricing expected (₹7-8.5 lakh range)
- Promising range of 225-250 km
- Familiar Kwid design with EV-specific updates
- Competitive features and performance
As India moves towards a cleaner automotive future, the Renault Kwid EV could play a crucial role in making electric mobility accessible to a wider audience. Its success will depend on Renault’s ability to balance cost, performance, and features while addressing the unique challenges of the Indian market.
Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the 2026 launch date of the Renault Kwid EV, a vehicle that could potentially reshape the affordable EV landscape in In
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Tata Nano EV 2025 coming with a range of 300 km on single charging, priced at just Rs 3 lakh
