Dacia is accelerating its push into the electric vehicle market, driven by the need to meet increasingly stringent European Union emissions standards and a strategic shift towards affordability. The Romanian automaker, owned by Renault, is preparing to launch a new electric city car, the Evader, in , priced under €18,000, and is planning an electric Sandero by .
The urgency stems from Dacia’s failure to meet EU emissions targets, a situation expected to repeat in . This has resulted in financial penalties for the company, prompting a doubling down on electric offerings. The current Dacia Spring, launched in , while updated in , has proven insufficient to offset the emissions from its gasoline-powered fleet.
The Evader represents a significant departure from the Spring. Built on the AmpR Small platform – shared with the Renault Twingo E-Tech – it will be assembled at the Renault plant in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, rather than being manufactured in China like the Spring. This shift in production location is strategically important, allowing Dacia to access environmental bonuses offered by several European countries, potentially reducing the final price for consumers. In France, for example, the “Coupe de pouce véhicules particuliers électrique” program could bring the Evader’s price down to around €13,140.
The Evader is expected to offer a range of 200-250 kilometers (approximately 124-155 miles) on a single charge, a noticeable improvement over the Spring. This increased range, coupled with the lower price point, positions the Evader as a key component in Dacia’s strategy to capture a segment of the market seeking affordable electric transportation.
Dacia’s approach centers on providing basic, reliable transportation at minimal cost. The company caters to a market segment that prioritizes functionality over luxury or advanced technology. This strategy has proven successful, with the Dacia Spring selling over 179,000 units in Europe as of June . However, the Spring’s limited specifications and range have constrained its overall impact on Dacia’s emissions profile.
Renault CEO Luca de Meo emphasized the speed of development for the new electric models. He stated that the company is preparing to introduce the new car in just 16 months, a timeframe he believes is unmatched by competitors. This rapid development cycle is crucial for Dacia to address its emissions challenges and capitalize on the growing demand for electric vehicles.
The move towards European production also addresses concerns about import tariffs associated with vehicles manufactured in China. By building the Evader in Slovenia, Dacia can avoid these tariffs, boosting profitability and potentially offering even more competitive pricing to consumers.
Dacia’s commitment to affordability is further underscored by its plans for a fully electric Sandero by . This suggests a broader electrification strategy across the company’s core model lineup. The success of this strategy will depend on Dacia’s ability to maintain its low-cost advantage while delivering vehicles that meet the evolving expectations of electric vehicle buyers.
The Dacia Spring has already achieved a five-star sustainability rating from Green NCAP in , achieving 100% in the organization’s rating. The vehicle’s lightweight design (979 kg) and small battery (27.6 kWh) contribute to its sustainability score, reflecting Dacia’s minimalist approach to vehicle design.
Despite the positive steps, Dacia faces a challenging landscape. The electric vehicle market is becoming increasingly competitive, with established automakers and new entrants vying for market share. Dacia’s success will hinge on its ability to differentiate itself through affordability, reliability, and a clear understanding of its target customer base.
