Renault has unveiled the new Twingo E-Tech Electric, a compact city car aimed at offering a fully electric option under €20,000 while avoiding the compromises typical of budget models. The vehicle, produced at the company’s Novo Mesto plant in Slovenia, marks a strategic effort to fill a gap in the small car market.
“Offering an affordable and competitive electric city car required more than simply adjusting the price. Renault had to rethink its entire design and production process,” the company said, noting that the Twingo was developed faster than any other model in Renault’s history. The new generation is built on the AmpR Small platform, shared with the Renault 5 and Renault 4, but with cost-optimised adjustments to the rear suspension and simplified interior systems.
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The Twingo E-Tech Electric features a 60 kW electric motor and a 27.5 kWh LFP battery supplied by CATL, delivering a WLTP range of up to 263 kilometres. Charging capabilities include up to 50 kW DC, allowing a 10–80% charge in around 30 minutes, and an 11 kW AC charger for full charging in under three hours. Renault has also integrated battery and cabin preconditioning systems to maintain performance in colder climates.
Design and practicality are central to the model. Measuring 3.79 metres in length with a 2.49-metre wheelbase, the Twingo offers five doors, four adult-sized seats, and flexible rear seating to balance passenger space with cargo capacity of up to 1,000 litres. The car also includes the OpenR Link infotainment system with Google integration and Renault’s voice assistant “Reno,” featuring ChatGPT-powered general knowledge support.
Renault highlighted the role of its Shanghai-based R&D centre in accelerating development. The facility handled all powertrain engineering and collaborated with local partners, including CATL for batteries and Shanghai E-Drive for the electric motor. “This joint effort shortened the usual development times and optimised costs without compromising quality,” Renault said.
With the Twingo E-Tech Electric, Renault aims to compete in a segment largely abandoned by other manufacturers, providing a city-friendly EV that blends affordability, technology, and everyday practicality while leveraging international engineering collaboration.
Photo Gallery: Renault Twingo E-Tech Electric