Dacia Spring shifts production to Europe, starts at €17,900
The redesigned Dacia Spring EV moves production from China to Slovenia, offering up to 155 miles of range for a starting price of €17,900 in Italy.
Dacia has revealed a completely redesigned Spring electric vehicle. The new model shifts production from China to Slovenia while maintaining an entry price of €17,900 in Italy.
The second-generation Spring shares its platform with the new Renault Twingo E-Tech. This European-built model aims to compete directly with affordable Chinese EVs on value.
Specifications and Performance
The Spring uses a front-mounted electric motor producing approximately 80 horsepower and 175 Nm of torque. It draws power from a 27.5-kilowatt-hour LFP battery, with Dacia confirming the stated capacity is the usable figure.
| Metric | Dacia Spring | Renault Twingo E-Tech |
|---|---|---|
| WLTP Range | 250 km (155 miles) | 263 km (163 miles) |
| 0-100 km/h | 12.1 seconds | Not specified in source |
| Top Speed | 130 km/h (81 mph) | Not specified in source |
Dacia states the car can achieve a consumption figure of 4.9 miles per kilowatt-hour. The brand notes that existing Spring owners average just 34 kilometers per day, with most charging done at home.
Charging and Practicality
Charging options are tailored for urban use. The standard 6.6-kW onboard charger takes 2 hours and 55 minutes to go from 15% to 80% using a 7-kW home wallbox.
An optional 11-kW AC charger reduces that time to 1 hour and 55 minutes when connected to a three-phase supply. DC fast charging is not standard but is available as an option bundled with the more powerful AC charger.
Even at its modest 50-kW maximum, the DC charger can replenish the battery from 15% to 80% in 28 minutes.
Design and Trim Levels
The new model is significantly larger than its predecessor. It measures 3.85 meters long, an increase of 15 centimeters, and is 18 centimeters wider. Dacia says this gives it a more planted stance compared to the previous tall, narrow design.
Two main trim levels are offered. The base Expression trim includes manual air conditioning, rear parking sensors, a seven-inch digital instrument display, and a smartphone-based multimedia system that forgoes a central screen.
The higher Journey trim adds a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reversing camera, and keyless entry. Dacia reports the Journey trim remains under €20,000.
Development and Market Position
Dacia developed the new Spring in under two years, according to the source. Platform sharing with the Twingo helped control costs and development time.
The move to European production in Slovenia is a key shift. The original Spring was built in China. The new model's pricing remains similar to the outgoing China-made version while offering improved specifications.
This strategy provides a European-made alternative for buyers seeking an affordable electric vehicle. Dacia's aim is to compete on value without the perceived premium often associated with European production.
