Spanish electric vehicle maker Silence is broadening its S04 lineup with new versions of its compact city EV, including fresh L6e and L7e variants and a new Cargo model, as the company looks to increase its urban mobility offerings across Europe. Sales of the vehicles will continue to be managed exclusively through Nissan’s European dealer network.
Designed to maximize space within a minimal footprint, the Silence S04 features a unique two-seat offset layout. The microcar measures 2.28 metres in length, 1.27 metres in width and 1.57 metres in height, and offers a boot capacity of 247 litres. All versions come equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, heating, a reversing camera, and integration with the ‘mySilence’ smartphone app.
The updated S04 range includes the new L6e-classified Unico and Vivo models, offering 4 kW and 6 kW of power respectively, with top speeds limited to 45 kph. In countries such as France and Germany, these models can be driven by young users as early as age 14 or 15 with an AM-class licence. Silence has not disclosed full battery specifications but states that the Unico version will offer up to 100 km of range. The Vivo, expected later this summer, will feature upgrades such as a 7-inch TFT display, enhanced brakes, and a multifunctional steering wheel.
The S04 Plus variant, falling under the L7e category, will deliver 14 kW of power and reach speeds of up to 85 kph. A new Cargo configuration – available in both L6e and L7e versions – features a single-seat setup and 414 litres of loading volume, designed to meet urban logistics needs.
As part of a broader strategy to lower barriers to EV adoption, Silence and Nissan will begin trialling battery swap stations in France in July 2025. “By introducing battery swapping and flexible battery ownership models, Nissan and Silence are helping to lower the barriers to EV adoption – particularly for city-based drivers who may not have access to home charging,” the companies said. The S04’s swappable batteries can be exchanged in under 30 seconds and are designed with wheels and handles for easy transport.
In tandem, Silence will offer French buyers a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) option for the first time, allowing customers to subscribe to battery use for a monthly fee, with the first year free of charge. The initiative is intended to reduce upfront costs and increase accessibility. Silence currently operates 160 battery swap stations in major Spanish cities, with plans to expand that number to over 200 by year-end.
The vehicles are manufactured at Silence’s facility in Barcelona, located at the former Nissan plant, which ceased operations in 2021. Nissan has served as Silence’s European sales and distribution partner since spring 2024, offering customers financing, service, and insurance options through its dealership network.