Electric vehicles (EVs) in India are gaining a lot of traction, and Renault has now entered the pool with the the launch of the wait-for-it Renault Kwid EV. The firm capitalised on the immense popularity of its petrol-powered Kwid to develop a budget-friendly and good-looking electric car.
The Renault Kwid EV is designed to offer Indian consumers a compelling mix of design, range and affordability, which is one of the key factors behind its success in the Indian EV market. Packed with power, a modern SUV-inspired zest and full of punchy details, the Kwid EV is going to surprise you with what a small electric can really do, featuring a remarkable range of 405 km on a single charge.
The new Renault Kwid EV is not just about green mobility but also offers contemporary comfort and style. Renault has ensured that even with this new electric variant, the youthful and bold identity that made the Kwid so popular amongst urban drivers holds true.
The vehicle has a futuristic design, a tech-loaded cabin and the utility that Indian families desire. Renault is firmly of the belief that early adopters of electric vehicles aren’t their only target audience but rather that the Kwid EV will appeal to just about anyone in the market for a smart, stylish and eco-friendly car to use on a daily basis.
A New Design with a Contemporary Electrical Flair
Renault Kwid EV adopts the design language of the global “Kwid E-tech” concept and is however customized for Indian market requirements. The compact SUV styling the Kwid is well known for is carried forward in the car but the Kwid EV brings futuristic design elements to the front to hint at its electric nature.
The front end has a solid grille-like element with narrow LED daytime running lights, resulting in a sharp and premium look. The newly shaped bumper, aerodynamic features and sporty alloy wheels contribute for refreshing EV styling. New LED taillamps joined by a light bar enhance the Kwid EV’s rear which looks more hi-tech.
The higher ride height, chiseled body lines and rugged body cladding further make sure the hatchback maintains its rugged appeal quintessential to an SUV, while the new dual-tone colour options and blue EV highlights make it pop on city streets. From every angle, Renault has of course made the Kwid EV to look youthful and lively and electric, and not at all dull.
Power, Range & Performance
The advanced electric powertrain is the core of the Renault Kwid EV which ensures seamless, quiet and efficient functioning. The vehicle has a 26.8 kWh battery pack and is capable of achieving a driving range of up to 405 kilometers on one charge (under standard test conditions).
That adds up to among the most usable vehicles for daily commuting and occasional long journeys. Instant torque in the electric motor means driving is responsive in stop and go city traffic. It is quick on its feet and it gently glides along without any noise or vibration of the engine.
Renault has concentrated on The Kwid EV feels assured and even at high speed stable. You can even get a little bit of battery recharge every time you tap the brakes, thanks to the regenerative braking miming efficiency. Renault has provided the normal and rapid charging for charging.
Kwid EV can be chargedup to 80% in 45 minutes on a DC fast charger, which is ideal for those with busy schedules. A normal home AC charger will take around 6 to 8 hours to charge the battery completely, which is good for charging through the night.
Tech-Savvy & Spacious Interior Space
Open up the Renault Kwid EV, and unmistakable modern technology meets warm comfort in the cabin. The dashboard is minimalist and futuristic, dominated by a big touchscreen infotainment system. This unit has support for Smartphone connectivity (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay), Bluetooth and Navigation. The instrument has a digital cluster giving live data of battery level, range and drive mode.
New ambient lighting elements inside the cabin enhance the premium feel, Renault says. The seats are good padding and the cabin is big enough for four people, front and rear, it keeps the practicality of the original Kwid. It may be a small car, but it has generous legroom and headroom that you’d find sufficient for short city drives and long journeys.
Convenience features such as power windows, keyless entry, push-button start, automatic climate control, and several USB ports to keep your devices charged. The interior has been kept simple with style, minimalism and functionality to provide comfort without clutter: Renault has achieved surprising things with the least amount of material possible.
Safety and Build quality
In terms of safety, Renault has equipped the Kwid EV with up-to-date safety features that ensures peace of mind for drivers. The vehicle has dual front airbags, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brake-Force Distribution), rear parking sensors and a reverse camera to assist in parking.
In addition, the overall body structure has been reinforced to provide superior crash protection. The EV pack is securely situated under the floor with adequate thermal management and waterproofing.
It satisfies international quality and safety standards and is tested in harsh environment. Renault has introduced safety equipment such as hill start assist and electronic stability control in top-end variants to ensure maximum security for the occupants.
Driving Experience and Ride Comfort
The exhilaration of driving the Renault Kwid EV is also the result of being able to do so with a high degree of comfort. The flat torque curve of the electric motor delivers a zippy and smooth riding experience, especially in city traffic. The steering is light, which helps you weave in and out of traffic.
Suspension has been finetuned keeping Indian roads in mind, rides are compliant even over bad roads. The quietude created by the absence of engine noise further adds to the calm and relaxed atmosphere inside the cabin which makes the journey even more enjoyable.
If you have a tendency to get stuck in traffic jams on a regular basis, one-pedal driving will be handy for you, too as you can modulate acceleration and deceleration (using mostly the one pedal).
Price, Variants Availability
Renault has been aggressive in pricing the Kwid EV to be within the reach of most buyers looking to transition to electric mobility. Pricing in this will differ by region, with the base expected to start at around ₹9.5 Lakh (ex-showroom) and the top variant Expected to be priced at around ₹12 Lakh.
This makes it one of the cheapest long-range EVs in the country. The company will have multiple variants base, mid and top level trims for the Duster Oil and Duster Prices for oil variants in India (at launch) have been: Base Variant Rs 9,99,000 (ex-showroom) Diesel Comparison of Duster variants and prices 3 versions of Duster are available.
The company also provides an extended warranty and special after-sales packages to ensure hassle-free ownership of the EV. Bookings for the sales the vehicle have already opened at dealerships in major Indian cities, with deliveries to start soon.
Conclusion
Renault Kwid EV is a big step forward in India’s electric mobility roadmap. It is the right balance of cost-effective, practical, and technical factor that will make electric driving easier for the common man.
Its long range, quick charging and good looks will attract young buyers and urban families, who want a green car but don’t want to compromise on style or comfort. With this launch, Renault has not only diversified its portfolio but also brought electric mobility closer to the people.
The Kwid EV has the lot range, performance, style and safety and could be among India’s best-selling small electric cars anytime soon. This is not just a replacement for petrol it is the dawn of a new epoch of intelligent, sustainable and connected urban mobility.”