Renault India is all set to make a significant stride in the Indian Electric Vehicle (EV) market, announcing its plans to launch Kwid EV in the coming eighteen months. The company has emphatically confirmed its venture into the realm of electrification, a strategic move intended to captivate the growing EV market in India. This upcoming EV, strategically positioned below the Rs. 10 lakh price point, aims to rival popular contenders such as the Tata Tiago EV, Citroen eC3, and MG Comet.
A Renault India’s spokesperson emphasized the brand’s resolute commitment to its electrification strategy, shedding light on the underpinning architecture for the forthcoming EV. The India-specific model will be based on the CMF-A architecture, a versatile and adaptable platform that has proven its worth in the automotive industry all over the world. With a launch window anticipated in either 2024 or 2025, the French automotive major is working relentlessly to expedite the unveiling of this promising Electrified Kwid for Indian consumers.
Renault Kwid EV: Localization Targets
The company’s initial focus will be on localizing the production of the Kwid EV to a significant extent, aiming for a localization rate ranging from 55 to 60 percent. This strategic maneuver aligns with Renault’s overarching goal of delivering competitive pricing to the Indian consumer, a hallmark of the brand’s appeal. Notably, Renault India aspires to take this initiative even further by sourcing the Battery Pack and its associated Components from Local Suppliers. This vertical integration is poised to bolster cost-effectiveness and streamline the manufacturing process.
A noteworthy aspiration of Renault India, is to reach an impressive milestone in local content incorporation – a staggering 90 percent. This ambitious vision underscores the Company’s dedication to utilize Domestic Expertise, fostering a Robust Ecosystem for EV manufacturing within India.
Renault Kwid EV: Platform & Design
The EV version of the Kwid will be constructed on a modified iteration of the ICE Kwid’s Platform. This strategic adaptation enables the EV to carve out its own distinctive identity, setting it apart from its Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) sibling. Anticipated Exterior changes, will include a Redesigned HeadLamp Cluster, a Revamped Grille, as well as updated Front and Rear Bumpers, culminating in an overall aesthetic evolution.
Renault Kwid EV: Battery Pack and Range
Drawing from its international counterparts, the global Kwid EV exhibits a flat floor design – a key attribute necessitating adjustments to the suspension and chassis to seamlessly accommodate the battery pack. Particularly within the European market, where it is also retailed under the Dacia Brand, this Electric Hatchback features a modest 26.8 kWh Battery Pack. Bolstered by a Power Output of 44 Bhp and 125 Nm of Torque, the Kwid EV boasts a commendable Driving Range of 295 kms on the WLTP cycle. It’s reasonable to anticipate an even more impressive range exceeding 300 kms on a Single Charge for the Indian version of the Kwid EV.
Renault-Nissan Alliance’s blueprint for the Indian market spans the next two to three years, promising a series of Innovative models poised to grace the Indian roads. This comprehensive roadmap underscores the conglomerate’s earnest commitment to capitalizing on the burgeoning Indian Automotive landscape.
Renault Kwid EV: Expectations
In sum, Renault India’s imminent entry into the Electric Vehicle segment underlines a strategic vision aligned with the surging demand for Green Mobility in India. The upcoming Kwid EV, positioned strategically in terms of Pricing and Technical prowess, is set to make waves in the Indian market. As the Indian Automotive horizon braces for paradigm shifts, Renault’s EV Strategy, emphasis on Localized Production, and ambitious content incorporation targets are poised to propel the Brand into a Pioneering Role within the realm of Electric mobility in India.
