Renault unveils affordable EV to compete with Chinese rivals

Renault SA introduced the R4 E-Tech, a compact electric vehicle aimed at rivalling budget models from Chinese manufacturers like BYD.

The new EV, unveiled at the Paris auto show on Monday, is set to cost under €35,000 ($38,252) and will be produced in Maubeuge, France, using locally sourced components.

The R4 will offer a range of 400 kilometres (249 miles) per charge and will feature a bidirectional charger and a ChatGPT-powered digital assistant. Renault plans to begin sales in the first half of next year.

Renault CEO Luca de Meo is focusing on locally made EVs to strengthen the brand’s position against Chinese competitors.

The European Union recently raised tariffs on Chinese EV imports, and France adjusted its subsidy rules to exclude most Asian-made models.

Renault also plans to expand its EV lineup with the addition of a more affordable electric Twingo in 2026, priced around €20,000.

Attribution: Bloomberg

Subediting: M. S. Salama