Dacia will buck industry trends by offering both its existing Spring electric vehicle and a new, Twingo-based EV at the same time. This unusual strategy means customers will have a choice between two affordable A-segment EVs from the same brand, a move that reflects shifting market dynamics and supply chain considerations.
The New Arrival: A European-Built Alternative
The upcoming Twingo-based EV, set for a Paris motor show debut in September and sales by year-end, will be priced under €18,000. It will be slightly larger – around 3.8 meters long – than the current Spring, and boasts a design inspired by Dacia’s rugged SUV aesthetic. The new model is designed and will be manufactured in Europe, avoiding the import penalties currently levied on the Spring, which is imported from China.
Why Two EVs? A Strategic Approach
Dacia product boss Patrice Lévy-Bencheton clarifies that the two models will coexist because, despite sharing a segment, they differ in size, shape, and target customer. The company plans to keep both on the market for roughly a year, phasing out the Spring gradually based on local incentives and demand.
This strategy is unusual: most automakers streamline product lines rather than doubling down on similar offerings. Dacia’s decision suggests a calculated attempt to maximize market share in the competitive EV space.
The Spring’s Unexpected Extension
Despite the newer model’s arrival, Dacia recently invested in updates for the Spring, including increased power (up to 101bhp), faster charging, and suspension improvements. These updates were made late in the Spring’s production cycle, but are intended to maintain its appeal until markets adjust.
Key Implications
The parallel sales of the Spring and new EV highlight a critical shift in the automotive industry: automakers must now navigate complex supply chains, import restrictions, and evolving consumer preferences. Dacia’s move demonstrates that flexibility and a willingness to coexist with internal competition can be a viable strategy.
The two offers make sense and will stay on the market; it’s up to the sales teams to position them correctly, according to Dacia’s marketing boss Frank Marotte.
Ultimately, Dacia is hedging its bets: maximizing sales in the short term while preparing for the inevitable transition to a fully-European-made EV lineup.
