When it comes to electric vehicles (EVs), Renault's budget brand Dacia has proven with the Spring that affordability and profitability can be combined. With over 140,000 units sold since its launch in 2022, the Spring is undergoing a massive makeover for the 2024 model year. Don't expect a new generation, but a radical facelift that follows the brand's latest design language seen in the new Duster SUV.
Dacia Spring 2024 it boasts a rugged look, thanks to the abundance of plastic trim and squared-off wheel arches. The exterior changes bring a more modern look compared to the original version, which acted like it was stuck in the 1990s. The interior reveals an all-new dashboard with a 7-inch digital instrument and 10-inch touch screen, revised climate controls and new look vents. The updated steering wheel now bears the new DC logo and, more importantly, allows for height adjustment.
Despite its small size, it is Spring surprisingly practical. The front trunk can accommodate 35 liters, while the rear luggage compartment offers 308 liters of volume, which is six liters more than before. With the rear bench folded, the volume increases to 1,004 liters. Multiple storage areas throughout the cabin offer an additional 33 liters of volume.
The Spring retains its title as the only EV in Europe weighing less than 1,000 kilograms, despite additional equipment and improved driver assistance technology, which has increased its weight by just six kilograms. The fully equipped version in the highest equipment line weighs only 984 kilograms.
The basic Spring model boasts everything 45 horsepower, but a more powerful electric motor with as much as 65 horsepower is also available. The latter allows the happy electric car to accelerate to 100 km/h in less than 14 seconds. If you opt for the basic motor, the job will be done in less than 20 seconds. Small battery with capacity 26.8 kWh provides autonomy more than 220 kilometers and is charged from 20 to 80 percent in 45 minutes via the DC charger. With the 7-kilowatt AC charger, it will take almost 11 hours to charge the battery from 20 to 100 percent. Bi-directional charging is also now supported, meaning Spring can power your toaster or other electrical devices.
The range is not overly impressive, but Dacia claims that it is more than sufficient for a typical Spring user. After analyzing the data collected from the infotainment system of the pre-renovation model, the owner of the Renault brand found that the owners drive their cars on average 37 kilometers per day. About 90 percent of all routes are shorter than 70 kilometers. The data also showed that Spring is driven at an average speed 37 km/h and yes 75 percent of car owners charge their cars at home.
While the Spring may not get your heart racing, those looking for a simple, low-cost, zero-emissions vehicle will appreciate this car. It is ideal for the urban jungle and as a tool for small shops that deliver goods. The price of the new version has not yet been revealed, but the old version cost around 20,000 euros on the domestic market in Romania, before subsidies.
Interestingly, the model is made in China and has a Renault version known as the City K-ZE. Both EVs follow the roots of the Renault Kwid, which was launched in 2015 with petrol engines.
Dacia Spring 2024 proves that electric mobility can be offered at an affordable price without sacrificing modern technology and attractive design. With extensive updates that follow Dacia's latest design guidelines, Spring remains a leader in the segment of affordable electric vehicles that combine practicality and durability. As the cheapest EV in Europe, Spring continues its mission of democratizing electric mobility while setting new standards in its class.
