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Renault has officially confirmed that the iconic Clio will join its electric vehicle lineup in 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the brand's electrification strategy. The announcement positions the electric Clio as one of the most anticipated affordable EVs in Europe, with expected pricing starting around €25,000-€28,000 before incentives.
The Clio nameplate has been a cornerstone of European motoring since 1990, with over 16 million units sold worldwide. Now entering the electric era, the model will utilize Renault's CMF-BEV platform—the same architecture underpinning the successful Renault 5 E-Tech. Industry insiders suggest two battery options will be available: a 40 kWh entry-level variant and a 52 kWh version offering up to 250 miles of WLTP-rated range.
Design-wise, the electric Clio will maintain its compact dimensions while incorporating modern EV elements including a closed-off front grille, aerodynamic enhancements, and a full-width LED light bar at the rear. Inside, expect Renault's OpenR infotainment system with native Google integration, along with sustainable materials throughout the cabin. Despite the floor-mounted battery pack, Renault promises to maintain the Clio's reputation for interior space efficiency.
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Performance specifications point to power outputs between 120-150 hp, with DC fast charging capability up to 100 kW enabling 10-80% charges in approximately 30 minutes. The electric Clio will be manufactured at Renault's ElectriCity production hub in northern France, with the company targeting 33% recycled content by weight in the vehicle's construction.
The electric Clio enters a competitive segment dominated by the Peugeot e-208, Opel Corsa Electric, and the upcoming Volkswagen ID.2. However, the Clio's established brand recognition and proven track record could prove decisive—the nameplate currently sells approximately 300,000 units annually across Europe in its combustion-powered form.
Production is scheduled to begin in late 2025, with first customer deliveries expected in early 2026. Initial launch markets will include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK, with pre-orders likely opening in mid-2025. Renault will offer flexible battery leasing options alongside traditional purchase, a strategy that has proven successful with previous models like the Zoe.
The electric Clio represents a crucial element of Renault's "Renaulution" plan, which aims for a fully electric European passenger car range by 2030. With its combination of iconic branding, accessible pricing, and practical specifications, the electric Clio could become the vehicle that finally brings mainstream EV adoption to Europe's budget-conscious buyers.