Renault Twizy Z.E pricing announced (UK)

Renault has confirmed that its tiny Twizy Z.E electric vehicle will start from a hefty £6,690 when UK sales start in early 2012.

The quadricycle (due to its low weight of 450kg) will arrive in two trim-levels; Urban and Technic, which starts from £7,400. Power comes from a 17bhp (17PS/13kW) electric motor which develops 57Nm (42lb-ft) of torque and allows for a range of 62 miles (100km) and a top speed of 50mph (80km/h), although Renault states “in everyday use, this figure can vary depending on driving conditions.”

On top of that, for 36 months/4,500 miles per annum, you pay £40 a month for leasing the lithium-ion battery.

Many were expecting the Twizy to start from
under £5k. Can Renault justify its £6,690 price tag?

Standard equipment on the Urban will include red or grey paintwork, water resistant upholstery, coded electronic immobiliser, lockable handbrake and steering column, driver’s airbag, regenerative braking system w/4 disc brakes, cable and integrated charger for a 3.5 hours full charge (using a domestic electrical supply or all types of public charging spot), econometer, range and ‘Eco driving’ gauge, two gloveboxes (one lockable), and a 31 litre lockable storage under rear seat.

Options will include metallic black or white paint, scissors doors with translucent lower half, and a transparent roof . Technic adds ‘Carbon fibre’ graphics, ‘Diamond black’ alloy wheels, metallic paint, and water resistant upholstery with driver’s seat in white.

Of course they'll be a accessories list that will include an 50 litre all-purpose bag, Parrot audio kit including Bluetooth connectivity, USB connector, a jack socket and an Apple connector, rear parking sensors, an a range of customisation accessories (coloured alloy wheels, decals).

With the Twizy being produced in Valladolid, Spain, the Twizy can be ordered online now.