Renault and Volkswagen Join Forces to Create a More Affordable Car?

While the sub-€20,000 electric car is emerging as a major issue, Volkswagen is working on its alliances.

Volkswagen missed the switch to 100% electric vehicles and, with great foresight and rare honesty, admits it. The German manufacturer has learned from its mistakes and no longer seems stubborn about going it alone. It is therefore in advanced talks with potential partners to establish cooperation on the development of its €20,000 electric car. According to the German newspaper Handelsblatt, citing sources close to the matter, Renault is said to be leading the pack.

The announcement of the revival of Twingo was met with widespread positive feedback, which likely caught Volkswagen’s attention. Renault has decided to highlight a nostalgic story, as the showcased car—though only a concept—is heavily inspired by the first-generation model launched in 1992. Its small round headlights, cartoonish shape, air intake on the right of the front hood, ringed door handles—all these elements bring a smile and fond memories. How could a once-iconic Twingo, never matched by subsequent generations, have been so criticized and even mocked at launch? One major change—indeed a significant one—is that the current version is a five-door. Anyone who remembers the very first Up won’t fail to see philosophical similarities between the two models.

According to our colleague, discussions with Renault, although still in early stages, could quickly lead to an agreement given the reciprocal interest. But if a partnership is formed, it will be a marriage of convenience, as we’re talking about an annual volume of 200,000 to 250,000 vehicles!