Renault and Volkswagen are currently in “good discussions” about jointly developing a small and affordable electric vehicle (EV), aiming to counter the threat posed by cheaper Chinese cars in the European market, where a significant portion of their sales originate.
Renault CEO Luca de Meo confirmed this week at the Geneva auto show that talks with VW are underway, along with discussions with other potential partners, although he did not disclose their names. “I am open to anybody who wants to jump in. I have production capacity. I have the platform. I know how to do it,” he stated.
See also: Renault Denies Reports of Cooperation with Smart for Electric Twingo Successor
Renault’s upcoming offering in this segment is the new Twingo EV, expected no earlier than 2026 with a targeted price of under €20,000. The talks with VW involve using the Twingo’s platform, which is a shortened version of the AmpR Small architecture used in the recently introduced Renault 5 E-Tech electric.
The Twingo could potentially utilize LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries to reduce costs. Regardless of the partnership outcome, Renault plans to proceed with the Twingo’s development. “I don’t have any time to waste, so I will not postpone it,” de Meo emphasized.
See also: Renault Explores Partnership for New Twingo EV, Volkswagen Among Potential Collaborators
VW brand CEO Thomas Schaefer has expressed openness to partnerships to bring EV prices below €20,000. While a deal between VW and Renault is plausible, these discussions are still in early stages.
Collaborations among European carmakers on minicars are not unprecedented, with examples like the Toyota Aygo/Peugeot 108/Citroen C1 trio, and Ford producing the second-gen Ka on the Fiat 500’s platform. De Meo, credited with reviving the Fiat 500 while leading Fiat, is recognized for his expertise in creating popular small cars, making his involvement in this potential joint venture particularly significant.
