By French automaker Renault’s budget brand Dacia has officially unveiled its latest innovation — the “Hipster Concept”, a compact electric mini car designed to make urban electric mobility accessible to everyone. Revealed on Monday, the prototype is expected to be priced below €15,000 (approximately $17,625 USD), positioning it as one of the most affordable electric vehicles (EVs) in Europe.
The Hipster Concept is just 3 meters long (9.84 feet) and weighs under 800 kilograms (1,763 pounds), making it one of the smallest and lightest cars currently conceived for the European market. Its compact dimensions and lightweight design make it ideal for dense urban environments, where maneuverability and efficiency are key.
Compact Design, Practical Performance
According to Dacia, the Hipster Concept is a three-door EV capable of reaching a top speed of 90 km/h with a range of up to 150 kilometers per charge — perfectly suited for city driving and short commutes. While it’s currently a concept model, the car reflects Dacia’s commitment to affordable, practical, and sustainable mobility.
Dacia CEO Catherine Edit described the Hipster Concept as “a glimpse into the brand’s vision for a local, affordable, and everyday urban vehicle.” She added that if the European Union (EU) introduces a new regulatory category for small electric cars, Dacia would be ready to begin mass production immediately.
This potential shift could allow automakers like Dacia to expand production of compact EVs, helping accelerate Europe’s transition to electric transportation while keeping prices within reach of average consumers.
Competing in the Small EV Market
Currently, the smallest electric car on the market is the Leap Motor T03 from China, which is 62 centimeters longer than Dacia’s Hipster. The Hipster’s smaller footprint and competitive pricing give it a strong position in the growing market for micro EVs, which appeal to environmentally conscious urban drivers looking for affordable alternatives to traditional cars.
If launched commercially, the Hipster could challenge rivals like Citroën Ami, Fiat Panda EV, and Leap T03, offering a combination of affordability, compact design, and electric efficiency rarely seen in today’s EV segment.
A Step Toward Affordable Electric Mobility in Europe
The Dacia Hipster Concept represents more than just a prototype — it’s a statement of intent. By developing a mini EV under €15,000, Dacia aims to democratize electric mobility and make zero-emission transportation viable for the broader European population.
With growing interest in small electric vehicles and a push for new EU classifications, the Hipster Concept could become a milestone in Europe’s transition toward accessible, sustainable urban transport.
