Renault has officially pulled the wraps off the next chapter for its most accessible electric vehicle, the Kwid E-Tech, in Brazil. This significant facelift goes beyond a simple nip and tuck, introducing a sharper design, a more modern cabin, and a surprising infusion of advanced safety technology, all while holding its position as Renault’s entry-level EV. Priced at approximately ₹12.7 lakh for the sole Techno variant, the updated model aims to make electric driving more appealing to a broader audience.
A Bolder Stance on a Familiar Frame
The new Kwid EV carries itself with a newfound confidence. Renault’s designers have given it a comprehensive aesthetic overhaul, employing a mix of glossy black and matte finishes at the front and rear to create a more dynamic and urban-friendly appearance. Striking LED daytime running lights define the face, while a sculpted bonnet and pronounced bumpers add a touch of muscularity.
Despite its compact dimensions—3,701mm long with a 2,423mm wheelbase—it offers a practical 290-litre boot, a notable advantage over smaller city EVs like the MG Comet. While the design is largely contemporary, a few elements, like the conventional door handles and key-insert slot, serve as a reminder of the car’s budget-conscious roots.
An Interior of Contrasts
Step inside, and you find a cabin that beautifully illustrates the transition from conventional to electric mobility. The dashboard layout is upright and functional, with some surfaces using hard-wearing but less premium plastics. User-friendly, manually-adjusted climate control dials speak to a philosophy of simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
However, the old-school charm is balanced by significant technological upgrades. Drivers are greeted by a flat-bottom steering wheel, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a prominent 10-inch touchscreen at the center of the dashboard. This system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration, ensuring connectivity is thoroughly modern.
A Big Leap in Safety with ADAS
Perhaps the most significant update in this facelift is the inclusion of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), a segment-first feature for a vehicle in this price bracket. This elevates the Kwid EV from a basic commuter to a surprisingly high-tech package.
The suite includes up to 11 features designed to prevent accidents, such as:
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane Keeping Assist and Alert
- Traffic Sign Recognition with Speed Alerts
This is complemented by other essential safety gear like electronic stability control, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, and hill-start assist, making it one of the most well-equipped small cars in terms of safety.
Performance and Range
Under the hood, the Kwid EV’s powertrain remains focused on urban efficiency. It uses a 48kW (65hp) electric motor drawing energy from a 26.8kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Performance is adequate for city streets, with a 0-100 kph time of 14.6 seconds and a top speed of 130 kph.
According to the Brazilian INMETRO test cycle, the car offers a range of 180 km. This makes it ideal for daily commutes but rules out lengthy highway journeys. For charging, it supports up to 7kW AC charging and 30kW DC fast-charging, allowing for quicker top-ups when needed.
While this updated model strengthens the Kwid EV’s appeal internationally, Renault has indicated that its launch in the Indian market remains unlikely for the time being.
