Renault’s new Twingo E-Tech electric has made its UK debut at the rnlt London Battersea showroom, offering up to 163 miles WLTP range from a 27.5 kWh LFP battery and a starting price under £20,000. This A-segment EV targets urban drivers seeking affordable electric mobility, with order books opening later in 2026 and UK deliveries expected in 2027. City dwellers stand to benefit from its compact size, low running costs, and features like one-pedal driving amid rising demand for budget EVs.
Background: Renault’s Push into Affordable EVs
Renault brings back the Twingo nameplate with this fourth-generation model, a fully electric reboot developed in just 100 weeks on the AmpR Small platform. Engineered between France and China, it will be built in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, qualifying for potential UK electric car grants due to European production. The original Twingo gained cult status for its playful design and city-friendly footprint; this version aims to revive that spirit while meeting modern EV demands.
Renault positions the Twingo alongside its growing EV lineup, including the Renault 5 E-Tech and Renault 4 E-Tech, showcased at the immersive rnlt London Battersea space on Electric Boulevard. Renault UK Marketing Director David Isherwood noted: “Twingo E-Tech electric is built for the city, so there’s no better place for its UK debut than rnlt London Battersea.” Globally, Renault unveiled it at Le Défilé Renault-The Carwalk in Paris, emphasising its role in urban electrification with a retail price under €20,000 before incentives.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery | 27.5 kWh (usable) LFP |
| Range | Up to 163 miles WLTP (real-world: 110-140 miles) |
| Motor | 82 hp (60 kW) front electric motor |
| Performance | 0-31 mph in 3.85 s; 0-62 mph in 12.1 s; top speed 81 mph |
| Weight | From 1,200 kg |
| Charging | 10-80% in 30 minutes (DC, UK spec TBC) |
| Infotainment | OpenR Link with Google built-in; 7-inch digital display; 10-inch touchscreen |
| Safety | Up to 24 ADAS, including hands-free parking, rear AEB, lane keeping |
| Doors/Seating | 5 doors; sliding rear seats |
| Trims | Evolution, Techno (UK spec TBC) |
| Price | Under £20,000 (UK starting price TBC) |
| On Sale | Order books late 2026; UK deliveries 2027 |
Sources confirm these specs, though final UK configurations may vary.
Design and Urban Practicality
The Twingo E-Tech measures compact for tight city streets yet offers modular space with five doors and sliding rear seats. Its playful exterior features eye-catching colours like green, red, and yellow, plus exclusive graphic typefaces and cheeky animations on screens, including a welcome jingle by Jean-Michel Jarre. Inside, the foldable front passenger seat (not UK-available) enhances versatility, while a spacious cabin belies its small footprint.
Built for daily commutes—Renault estimates typical owners drive 22 miles per day—the lightweight 1,200 kg body ensures brisk urban acceleration despite modest power. One-pedal driving simplifies stop-start traffic, and 12 sensors enable hands-free parking, a segment first.
Technology and Safety Features
Connectivity shines with OpenR Link and Google built in for navigation and apps across a 10-inch infotainment screen and 7-inch driver display. The Reno app supports preconditioning. Safety leads with up to 24 ADAS systems: traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, rear automatic emergency braking, and occupant safe exit alert.
Renault Twingo project head engineer Marc-Antoine Sanchez highlighted: “The generous array of driver assistance systems… ranks Renault Twingo E-Tech electric’s safety at the top of its class.” This tech-dense package at a sub-£20,000 price challenges perceptions of budget EVs as basic.
Market Entry and Early Access
Visitors can view the sole UK Twingo example at Battersea Power Station from 7-15 February 2026. The £100 Renault Twingo R Pass secures priority ordering, plus perks like a miniature model and concierge service. Production starts early 2026, with UK sales following in 2027—potentially aided by grants if available.
Comparison with Competitors
The Twingo targets rivals like Citroën e-C3, Fiat 500e, BYD Dolphin Surf, and Dacia Spring, emphasising European build and no-compromise affordability. Versus the Fiat 500e (similar range but higher price), it offers more doors and ADAS; against Dacia Spring (cheaper but shorter range), it provides superior tech and safety. The Citroën e-C3 matches urban focus but lacks confirmed hands-free parking. At under £20,000, the Twingo undercuts many while matching or exceeding features.
Verdict
Renault Twingo E-Tech electric delivers a credible, affordable city EV with strong range, safety, and fun factor, ideal for urban commuters and fleets prioritising low costs over long-haul capability. Unanswered questions remain on the exact UK pricing, final specs, and grant eligibility by 2027. Urban drivers tired of pricey EVs should watch for order books— this could redefine A-segment electrics if priced aggressively.
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