Renault has unveiled its new electric Twingo small car, which is set to go on sale in early 2026. The vehicle has been developed in just two years, with an engineering team in China playing a key role in its creation. The new Twingo will be manufactured in Slovenia and will retain the distinctive silhouette and round headlights of its 1992 predecessor. This latest launch is part of Renault’s strategy to revive classic model names, which was initiated by former CEO Luca de Meo.
The Twingo is a significant model for Renault, with over 4.1 million units sold in 25 countries over three decades. However, the small car market in Europe has shrunk considerably in recent years, due to tight profit margins. The European Commission is considering new regulations to revitalize this category of cars. Renault’s new Twingo is priced under £20,000 ($23,000), making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
To accelerate development and reduce costs, Renault designed the new Twingo in France but developed it at its research and development center in Shanghai. The vehicle will be assembled in Europe and will feature a more affordable LFP battery from Chinese manufacturer CATL. The Twingo will be available in just four colors, and Renault’s alliance partner Nissan will also produce a version of the car. Additionally, low-cost brand Dacia will sell a version of the Twingo for less than 18,000 euros.
Renault’s new CEO, François Provost, has pledged to maintain a sustained pace of new launches over the next few years, although it is unclear whether this will include further revivals of iconic model names. The launch of the electric Twingo is a significant step for Renault as it seeks to boost its electric vehicle sales and compete in the increasingly crowded market. With its affordable price tag and classic design, the new Twingo is likely to appeal to buyers looking for a stylish and economical city car.