Renault Kwid E-Tech Launched in Brazil as Most Affordable Electric Vehicle

Renault has officially launched the Kwid E-Tech electric vehicle in Brazil, positioning it as the country's most affordable electric hatchback. The electric version of the popular Kwid model represents Renault's strategy to expand electrification in Latin American markets, manufactured at the company's Ayrton Senna Industrial Complex in São José dos Pinhais, Paraná. 

The Kwid E-Tech carries a price tag of BRL 99,990 (Brazilian Real), equivalent to approximately Rs 16 lakh. This pricing establishes the vehicle as the entry-level electric offering in Brazil's growing EV market. The model builds on the same platform as the Dacia Spring EV, which is sold in European markets. 

The electric hatchback features a 26.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack paired with a 48 kW electric motor producing 64 horsepower and 113 Nm of torque. The vehicle delivers acceleration from 0-50 kmph in 4.1 seconds and achieves a certified range of 180 km according to Brazil's Inmetro testing cycle. 

The Kwid E-Tech supports multiple charging options, including a 30 kW DC fast charger that replenishes the battery from 15% to 80% in approximately 40 minutes. Using a 7.4 kW AC wallbox charger, the same charging range requires approximately 2 hours and 54 minutes. 

The 2026 model year Kwid E-Tech incorporates revised exterior styling with sharper lines and redesigned panels. The front features a closed grille with piano-black trim, full LED daytime running lights, and projector headlights. The interior has been completely redesigned with a horizontal dashboard layout, featuring a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. 

The Kwid E-Tech becomes the first vehicle in its class in Brazil to offer 11 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features as standard, alongside six airbags. Additional safety equipment includes ABS with brake assist, electronic stability control, hill start assist, tyre pressure monitoring system, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. 

The launch forms part of Renault's broader electrification strategy for Latin America, with the company operating Brazil's largest EV distribution network. The Kwid E-Tech is expected to compete with models including the Tata Tiago EV and Citroën eC3 when it eventually reaches the Indian market. 

Test prototypes of the Kwid EV have been spotted on Indian roads, indicating potential plans for local market introduction. However, no official timeline has been announced for the India launch, with the company likely to focus on establishing the model in the Brazilian market first.