Renault has offered a glimpse into the future of urban electric mobility with the unveiling of the Twingo E-Tech electric prototype’s interior at the Brussels Motor Show. This show car provides a strong indication of what to expect from the production Twingo, slated for release in 2026 with a target price of under €20,000. The design cleverly blends nostalgic nods to the original Twingo with modern technology and a focus on practicality, promising a compelling package for city dwellers.
The interior design team has clearly taken inspiration from the first-generation Twingo, known for its spacious and functional layout. The prototype’s cabin retains this emphasis on usability, reimagining classic features for the electric age. The dashboard, described as airy, cylindrical, and suspended, is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. It houses a 7-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.1-inch central multimedia screen, providing seamless connectivity and a modern user interface with bespoke graphics. A charming detail is the translucent bubble housing the red hazard warning light button, a direct reference to the original Twingo.
Beyond the aesthetics, practicality is at the heart of the Twingo E-Tech’s interior. The streamlined layout maximises storage space, with easily accessible compartments under the dashboard and between the front seats, ideal for stowing bags and everyday essentials. A flat surface running the width of the cabin beneath the cylindrical dashboard provides a convenient spot for items like books, phones, or sunglasses.
Renault has also explored innovative materials for the prototype’s interior. The upholstery draws inspiration from the vibrant patterns of the first-generation Twingo, matching the exterior colour with subtle accents on the door panels and passenger-side dashboard. In a more experimental move, the vehicle floor is crafted from tinted cork, a material chosen for its durability and sustainable credentials.
A key element of the Twingo’s DNA has always been its adaptability, and the E-Tech prototype continues this tradition. The rear bench seat features a 50/50 split and folding mechanism, offering flexible configurations for maximising legroom, carrying bulky items, or increasing boot space. Five doors ensure easy access for all passengers. The cabin is bathed in natural light thanks to a generous rounded glass roof, creating an airy and spacious feel.
The design team has incorporated several clever details to enhance the user experience. These include magnetic areas on the front headrests for rear passengers to attach their phones, an elastic strap doubling as a map pocket and water bottle holder, and seatback adjustment knobs inspired by skateboard wheels – a playful nod to the Twingo’s urban environment. Adding a touch of personality, the designers have even left hidden messages around the cabin for future occupants to discover.
The Twingo E-Tech prototype represents a significant step forward for Renault’s electric vehicle strategy. It’s built on the AmpR small platform and has been developed by Ampere in just two years, with the aim of delivering an affordable electric car manufactured in Europe. The target price of under €20,000 positions it as a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers looking to make the switch to electric. The new Twingo will complement Renault’s growing E-Tech electric range, joining models like the Renault 5, Renault 4, Megane, and Scenic.
Since its initial unveiling at the Paris Motor Show in 2024, the Twingo E-Tech prototype has undergone several design refinements. These include a concealed air intake in the lower front end, smaller rear wheel arch extensions, and redesigned black bumpers featuring a 3D-printed honeycomb pattern. Further changes include the removal of illuminated surrounds from the front door handles, the addition of a quarterlight near the rearview mirror, and a modified rear light shape. These updates demonstrate Renault’s commitment to continuous improvement throughout the development process.
The Twingo E-Tech electric prototype isn’t just a retro-styled city car; it’s a vision of affordable, practical, and enjoyable electric mobility for the urban landscape. By blending heritage with modern technology and a strong focus on usability, Renault is aiming to bring electric vehicles to a wider audience when the production model arrives in 2026.
Discussion about this post