Renault has unveiled a van version of its electric Twingo city car, designed primarily for utility use. This compact vehicle swaps rear seats for a 797-liter cargo area, accessible through both the tailgate and rear windows. The concept, initially created for energy company EDF, is unique with its custom blue color and black headlight detailing.
Adaptability and Potential Cost
The Twingo van isn’t a permanent conversion; Renault states it can revert back to a standard passenger car after commercial use. If produced, it would likely sell for under £15,000 (plus VAT). The vehicle would share its 27.5kWh battery and approximate 163-mile range with the standard Twingo, using the same 80bhp motor.
UK Availability and Alternatives
Despite the concept’s potential, Renault has no current plans to bring it to the United Kingdom. The company does offer a small electric commercial option through its Dacia brand, with the Spring Cargo. Renault has a history in this space, having previously converted the first-generation petrol Twingo into a delivery van, though that version was never officially sold in the UK.
Market Context
The Twingo van enters a growing market for small electric commercial vehicles. Citroen has already launched an urban delivery version of its e-C3, while Renault itself currently offers the larger Kangoo van with both electric and traditional engine options. The demand for these vehicles is driven by increasing logistics needs in dense urban environments, where a smaller footprint can be advantageous.
The Twingo van concept highlights the growing trend of repurposing compact electric vehicles for commercial use. Its absence from the UK market suggests differing logistical strategies between Renault’s French and British operations.
The full review of the standard, four-seat Renault Twingo will be published on Autoexpress.co.uk on March 31st.
