Dacia Spring EV shifts production to Slovenia for French subsidy access
Renault is moving production of its Dacia Spring EV from China to Slovenia to make it eligible for French EV incentives. The base model costs €17,900, but with subsidies it can be as low as €12,200. The updated model features a more athletic design and a 27.5 kWh battery offering about 155 miles of range.
Relocating assembly to the Slovenian facility, which also produces the Twingo E-Tech, enables the Spring to qualify for French incentives. Its performance remains modest, with an 80-horsepower motor and a 27.5 kWh battery delivering approximately 133 miles under EPA testing.
The refreshed model boasts a larger footprint and expanded cargo capacity, alongside a modernized digital interface. Given that owners typically travel about 21 miles daily and mostly charge at home, the vehicle is clearly tailored for urban commuting. With over 210,000 units sold worldwide since 2021, this locally built version advances Renault's 2030 target of a fully electrified European lineup.
The shift to European manufacturing could make electric mobility more accessible to budget-conscious French consumers, potentially lowering the financial barrier for entry. This strategy may also compel rival automakers to localize production to remain competitive. Additionally, the Spring's limited range and city-focused design could influence how municipalities prioritize charging infrastructure, while supporting the EU's broader push for drastic fleet emission reductions by 2035.