Dacia’s Tiny EV Keeps Its Name, But Not Much Else

Dacia unveiled the second generation of its Spring electric vehicle this week, retaining the "Spring" name but significantly altering its production and design. The 2024 Dacia Spring will be manufactured in Europe, specifically at the Mioveni plant in Romania, a shift from its previous production in China. This relocation is expected to impact the vehicle's cost and potentially its availability, aligning it more closely with European market demands and regulations. While maintaining its position as one of Europe's most affordable EVs, the new Spring incorporates updated styling inspired by the Dacia Bigster concept, featuring a more rugged and modern aesthetic. The interior also receives a refresh, with a new 7-inch digital instrument cluster and an optional 10-inch central infotainment screen, representing a substantial upgrade from the outgoing model's 3.5-inch display. Dacia has also enhanced the powertrain, offering a more powerful 65 horsepower (48 kW) electric motor option alongside the existing 45 horsepower (33 kW) unit, aiming to improve driving dynamics. The battery capacity remains at 26.8 kWh, providing an estimated range of up to 220 kilometers (137 miles) under the WLTP cycle, a figure that Dacia states is sufficient for urban commuting. Charging capabilities have also been improved, with the new Spring supporting bidirectional charging, allowing it to power external devices like a hairdryer or a coffee machine, a feature previously unseen in its segment. Pricing for the new Dacia Spring is anticipated to remain competitive, though the shift in production location may influence the final cost for consumers.