Nissan made a mark in electric mobility over a decade ago with the launch of the Leaf, its flagship EV. However, since that breakthrough, the brand hasn’t pursued smaller electric models.
This trajectory could shift in the near future as Nissan anticipates a new compact EV, likely developed on the same platform as Renault’s Twingo, expected to debut across Europe by 2026.
Renault’s Ampere division, focused on EV innovation, disclosed that Nissan is interested in a tiny A-segment EV, borrowing heavily from Renault’s budget-friendly hatch, which aims for a starting price under 20 000 €.
This new model from Nissan is anticipated to utilize the AmpR Small platform, already supporting the Alpine A290, Renault 4 E-Tech, and Renault 5 E-Tech. This forthcoming EV is expected to slot below the next-generation Micra in Nissan’s lineup. According to Ampere, “This vehicle would benefit from our streamlined cost strategies and reduced development timelines.”
Just recently, a concept for the Renault Twingo appeared in Paris, showcasing a fresh, youth-oriented design for compact city driving. A small EV of this type would be a timely addition for Nissan in Europe—a market where the brand has encountered recent challenges—capitalizing on shared resources from its Renault and Alpine alliances.
Although the Alpine brand, another part of Renault’s automotive family, is making its way to the U.S., it will maintain a distinct price range and performance focus from Nissan. Renault’s Ampere team is also advancing battery technology, with plans to introduce cobalt-free batteries by 2028.
Ampere noted, “Our next-gen cobalt-free batteries will combine the high energy density of NCM with the cost efficiency and safety of LFP, along with a recharge time under 15 minutes.” Whether Nissan will bring such a compact EV to North America remains uncertain, given the limited success of shorter-range models in that market. Current options in this segment, like the Fiat 500e, face considerable challenges meeting consumer expectations in range-focused regions.
