Renault K-ZE (Kwid Electric) Concept Unveiled: Paris Motor Show 2018

We expected Renault to make a big splash in their home turf - the ongoing Paris Motor Show 2018. And we’re glad to report they haven’t disappointed us one bit. At Renault’s pavilion you’d find the concept avatar of what will eventually become the electric version of the Kwid.

The Kwid Electric, or K-ZE as it’s actually called, has been developed by e-GT New Energy Automotive Co. This company is a joint venture between Dongfeng Motor Group (China) and Nissan. K-ZE is short for Kwid Zero Emissions, and that’s no surprise considering there’s no internal combustion engine under the bonnet.

While there are no confirmed specifications with respect to the battery pack or the electric motor, Renault has revealed the range. The manufacturer says the K-ZE is capable of being driven as much as 250km on a single charge in the NEDC cycle. It’s also equipped with a ‘double charging system’ that’s equally compatible with domestic chargers as well as public charging infrastructure. The charging port is located on the front right fender of the car.

One look at the K-ZE, and it’s instantly recognisable as a Kwid. Of course, it’s got a revised front end with sleeker headlamps, a bigger grille, gigantic wheels and a redone rear end. But, these are concept car elements which are most likely to be binned as soon as it hits the production lines. However, we have to admit the K-ZE does look smashing, and the white-blue paint scheme underlines the cars clean characteristics amply. There’s no sneak peek into the interior just yet, but Renault says that the K-ZE gets features such as a rearview camera, parking sensors and a central touchscreen with navigation. Notably, all of these features are already available on the top-spec Kwid sold right here in India.

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We aren’t expecting Renault India to bring the electric Kwid to our markets anytime soon. As is the case with most electric cars, pricing might be one of the biggest limiting factors. Considering the Kwid is looked at as an affordable hatchback, an expensive e-version might not sit all that well with buyers. We can’t rule it out completely though. As battery tech evolves and becomes even more affordable every day, Renault might just see enough sense to introduce the e-Kwid in India.