WionDrive News Desk 
A Renault spokesperson revealed that development on the Twingo is progressing swiftly, with plans to complete it within a two-year timeline, Reuters reported. The spokesperson emphasised that the collaboration with a Chinese engineering partner aims to expedite development and reduce costs. The project is being overseen by Ampere, with styling and advanced engineering conducted in France, and production slated for Europe, as initially intended.
Renault’s ambition with the budget-friendly Twingo is to vie against Chinese competitors like BYD, which have flooded the market with affordable small electric vehicles (EVs). This move underscores the growing trend of partnerships between European and Chinese automakers, with Volkswagen teaming up with Xpeng and Stellantis partnering with Leapmotor.
The Twingo concept was unveiled by Renault in November, revealing an electric model that draws design inspiration from the iconic first-generation Twingo from the 1990s. Despite the homage to its predecessor, the prototype shares little resemblance with the current Twingo generation, which previously shared a platform with the now-discontinued Smart Forfour, aside from its compact size.
Renault had initially explored collaboration with Volkswagen for a small electric car. However, discussions stalled recently over disagreements, notably because Volkswagen sought to produce its own small electric vehicle in a Renault factory. VW subsequently announced plans to independently manufacture its small EV, priced at 20,000 euros.
Renault clarified that its decision to partner with a Chinese engineering firm was not a consequence of failed negotiations with Volkswagen, but rather a pre-existing strategic choice. Nevertheless, Renault CEO Luca de Meo expressed disappointment over the missed opportunity for European industry collaboration, stating, “I wanted to show that European industry could work together as a team, so I think this is a lost opportunity, but there may be others,” during an interview with Reuters.
