Renault Launches The Electric Kwid E-TECH In Brazil

• Renault Kwid EV has been launched in Brazil.
• Powered by a 65PS electric motor, paired with a 26.8kWh battery pack.
• Can do up to 298km according to Brazilian standards.
• Distinguishing elements include closed off grille, dual tone alloys, and EV-specific instrumentation.
• Priced from 142,990 Brazilian Real (Rs 23.20 lakh).

Renault has launched the all-electric Kwid E-TECH in Brazil at 142,990 Brazilian Real (approximately Rs 23.20 lakh, before taxes). The all-electric entry-level hatchback was showcased at the Auto Expo 2020 as the K-ZE and is sold as the Dacia Spring EV in Europe as well. 

The Kwid EV is powered by a 65PS electric motor in normal mode and 44PS in Eco mode,  paired with a 26.8kWh battery pack. The availability of all that power from zero rpm means the Kwid EV is a perky little hatch, doing 0-50kmph in 4.1 seconds. And in terms of range, the Kwid EV is capable of doing 265km in mixed conditions and 298km in urban conditions (Brazilian standards).

The Kwid EV’s battery pack supports fast charging, and can be topped up from 15 to 80 percent in 40 minutes using DC charging. Plus, there is regenerative braking as well. So while slowing down or decelerating, the energy will be restored into the battery pack. This effect is much stronger if you drive it in Eco mode. 

Now to the design. The Kwid EV looks largely similar to the standard car, albeit with minor distinguishing touches. Like typical EVs, the grille has been closed off, while dual-tone alloy rims uplift the overall stance and appearance of the hatchback. Even on the inside, the EV-specific dials and four-spoke steering wheel is the only change. 

In terms of features, the highlight has to be the safety list, which is far better than the India-spec Kwid. So the Brazil model gets six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill start assist, and tyre pressure monitoring system. Apart from that, it also gets the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system and power windows.  

The Kwid EV is unlikely to launch in India anytime soon as there is no talk about it after its display at Auto Expo 2020. If launched, it is expected to be priced around Rs 8 lakh, and will lock horns with the Mahindra eKUV100.