Dacia is introducing the 'Hipster' concept, a compact electric vehicle designed to provide an affordable solution for urban transportation, aligning with the brand's philosophy of essential mobility.
The Hipster concept is engineered to be significantly lighter and more resource-efficient than many current electric vehicles, with Dacia aiming to reduce its production carbon footprint by half compared to existing EVs. Measuring three meters in length, 1.55 meters in width, and 1.53 meters in height, it ingeniously accommodates four adults. Its cargo capacity can expand from 70 liters to 500 liters by folding the rear seats. Weighing approximately 800 kilograms, it is notably lighter than the Dacia Spring.
Powering the Hipster is a 10-kWh battery, projected to offer around 100 kilometers of range under standard conditions, with a more realistic expectation of 60 to 80 kilometers in everyday use. This is considered sufficient for daily urban trips, given that Dacia states most drivers cover less than 40 kilometers per day (94% of drivers in the Netherlands drive less than 40 km per day). The expected serial version is anticipated to cost less than 15,000 euros (or approximately 17,600 US dollars), making it one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market. The vehicle's design is minimalist and cube-like, featuring slim headlights and a straightforward front end. For cost efficiency, the exterior utilizes a single color scheme with only three painted sections, and functional elements like strap door handles reduce weight and complexity. The rear features a two-part tailgate for easy loading.
Inside, the design prioritizes space and simplicity with vertical windows and a generous windshield contributing to an airy cabin feel. The front passenger seat folds forward for rear access. The front seats are combined into a bench. The dashboard and interior trim are basic, with options for modular accessories. Dacia's ambition with the Hipster is to democratize electric mobility, making it significantly more affordable, drawing inspiration from Japan's successful Kei car segment, which held a market share of approximately 38% of new registrations in 2024. Romain Gauvin, Head of Advanced and Exterior Design at Dacia, emphasizes: "It's about creating something that doesn't exist today." While European automakers like Renault and Stellantis are calling on the EU to create a new category of light vehicles, similar to Japanese Kei cars, Dacia is already offering its vision of such a future with the Hipster concept. It is expected that if the EU approves a new vehicle category for light cars, it will simplify safety requirements for small electric vehicles, helping automakers reduce costs and make EVs more accessible. The Hipster concept is considered "viable for production" in Europe, awaiting possible approval of a new light vehicle category by the European Union. The Hipster concept is currently in its development phase, with no definitive market launch announced.