Dacia has introduced an extensively updated iteration of the Spring, aiming to revolutionize the landscape of affordable urban electric vehicles. The 2024 Dacia Spring embodies the manufacturer's latest design ethos, drawing inspiration from the acclaimed Duster model while preserving its characteristic high ground clearance and crossover elements. With a revamped interior boasting enhanced features, the Spring competes fiercely against contemporary adversaries, including the Citroen e-C3 and the forthcoming Fiat Panda, alongside prospective urban EVs like the Renault Twingo and the VW ID.1.
In terms of its exterior, the Spring exudes a more contemporary aura, primarily attributed to the incorporation of design elements reminiscent of the Duster, such as the grille and LED headlights, complemented by SUV-style features like the skid plate and bumper intakes. The rear facade receives a similarly bold transformation, characterized by a black trim connecting modern LEDs and a substantial application of plastic cladding on the bumper.
While the overall profile spanning 3,701 mm remains familiar, subtle enhancements include tweaked fenders, refined surfacing, and the addition of a decorative ribbon on the C-pillar, accentuating its crossover stance. Furthermore, new options for wheel designs, including sizes up to 16 inches in diameter, and a revised color palette featuring hues like Brick Red and Safari Beige, contribute to the Spring's refreshed aesthetic.
Stepping into the cabin, a complete overhaul replaces the dated dashboard with a contemporary layout. The flagship Extreme trim boasts a digital cockpit comprising a 7-inch instrument cluster and a 10-inch infotainment display, while entry-level variants offer a smartphone holder. Redesigned climate vents, gearbox selector, and dashboard-mounted tray align with the brand's design language, augmented by the inclusion of the YouClip accessory mounting system for personalized interior customization. Standard equipment encompasses the essential ADAS package mandated by EU regulations, accompanied by the "My Safety" button for convenient activation or deactivation. Additionally, a 35-liter frunk supplements the 308 liters of available boot space.
Dacia opts to retain the Spring's existing underpinnings, justified by data indicating that existing owners typically undertake daily trips averaging 37 km at a speed of 37 km/h. Thus, the carry-over electric motor, available in either 44 hp or 64 hp configurations, suffices in terms of performance, despite modest acceleration capabilities. Similarly, the 26.8 kWh battery pack facilitates a WLTP range exceeding 220 km, owing in part to the vehicle's lightweight construction, tipping the scales at 984 kg. Charging capabilities, however, appear somewhat lackluster, with weaker models supporting 11kW AC charging and stronger variants accommodating 30kW DC charging. A notable addition to the updated model is the bi-directional charging functionality, enabling the utilization of the battery to power external electric devices.
While pricing details for the 2024 Dacia Spring are yet to be disclosed, the company reaffirms its commitment to offering "the most affordable full-electric model on the market." According to reports from Autocar, deliveries in the UK are slated to commence in October 2024, with pricing expected to fall below the £18,000 ($22,732) threshold. Production of the new Spring will continue in China, following the footsteps of its predecessor.