According to a media report, Renault is gearing up to launch the electric version of the Kwid in India. The timeline for the same is within the next 12-18 months. The Kwid EV will be based on a modified version of the ICE-version.
The electric version of the Kwid will have some visual differences to distinguish it from the regular Kwid. These could include bumpers, lights and the front grille.
In overseas markets like China and Europe, Renault already sells the Kwid EV. However it is sold under Dacia and Dongfeng brands. In India, the Kwid EV could make electric vehicles even more accessible for the consumers. The electric hatchback could be an affordable alternative with low running costs.
Coming to the powertrain, the all-electric Kwid could get a 44 HP / 125 Nm motor with a 26.8 kWh battery. These are the specs offered in Europe. The same could be offered in India as well. Renault claims a range of 295 km on the WLTP cycle. While a small battery means faster charging, but infrastructure in India is still developing which could mean that Renault might offer a larger battery.
Renault is aiming to start Kwid EV production in India with a 55-60 percent localisation. However, to do this, the regular ICE version would have to be modified. Elements like the engine, gearbox and the fuel tank would have to be removed amongst others. The floor would also be flat and would require strengthening to accommodate the heavy batteries.
Renault could also tweak the suspension to accommodate these changes.
The Kwid EV will go against the likes of the Tiago EV, Citroen eC3 and MG Comet EV. Tata has witnessed good sales for EV and already has crossed 50,000 sales mark. This shows good customer response as well. With increasing awareness for electric vehicles in India, the Kwid EV could also do good numbers.
Also Read – Renault launches Experience Days in Maharashtra.