3

Dacia has confirmed that its value-focussed Spring electric SUV will launch in the UK next year.

The brand described the Spring as “Europe’s most affordable new electric car” and will boost competition with brands like MG, which has already made a significant impact with its valued-focussed EV models.

The five-door supermini has been on sale in mainland Europe since 2021 and has built up over 120,000 customer orders over the last two years, helping Dacia increase its total global sales by 6.8% year-on-year.

European pricing would gives an indication that the Spring would be priced at around £15,000 and while official specifications are yet to be confirmed, its zero emission range in Europe is up to 143 miles.

Dacia also said three quarters of the Spring’s sales have been to the retail market, rather than to fleet customers.

The brand said the Spring’s profile of customer is often for those looking for a second car that will do the majority of the transport for the week.

Data collected from the Spring’s connected services has also provided an insight into how the full four-seat hatchback has met European customers’ requirements, and how it could fit in with the needs of UK drivers whose travel is mostly in urban areas.

On average, customers’ daily commutes last under 20 miles and are covered at 16mph, while in 75% of cases, the Spring is charged at home for an average duration of 3.5 hours.

Luke Broad, Dacia brand director for the UK, said: “The Spring will plug a gap in the UK electric car market for a highly usable, quality EV that won’t break the bank and which makes electric vehicle ownership more realistic than ever.”

Xavier Martinet, Dacia SVP sales, marketing and operations, added that the Spring has “democratised electric vehicle ownership in Europe, offering people the chance to enjoy sustainable driving without the often-associated price premium”.

Full details, including timings, pricing and specification, will be announced in 2024.