Renault’s intriguing electric two-seat Twizy is set to hit European streets shortly, and as part of the buzz in the lead-up to its launch, pricing and specification has just been confirmed for the third trim level, Colour.
The latest version of the French marque’s trailblazing urban compact two-seater was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show amidst a plethora of single and two-seat electric vehicles from rival manufacturers. Unlike all of them, Twizy is a production reality, launching in the UK in March 2012, priced from just £6,690 and monthly battery hire from £40.
The new Colour version will sit between the previously announced trim levels, Urban and Technic, priced at £6,950 on-the-road. Its keen pricing sees it pitched at £260 more than the entry-level Urban and £450 less than the top-of-the-range Technic.
Emphasising Twizy's fun side, Colour comes with a choice of three bodywork base colours: black, grey or white, which can be combined with one of Urban Blue, Ivy Green or Flame Orange, for the roof and side panels.
The same hues are continued through to its upholstery and glovebox and can even be specified on colour-coordinated, diamond-effect alloy wheels which cost £350. Colour-coordinated half-scissor doors will be available for £455, mirroring its affordable price positioning. Reservations for Twizy can now be made at www.renault-ze.com.
Standard equipment on Twizy includes 13-inch wheels, two gloveboxes, one of which is lockable, 3 metre long charging cable, heated tinted windscreen, Z.E. onboard computer and dashboard with econometer and battery consumption display. Safety and security have also been paramount throughout the project, as is evident from the three-point seatbelt in the front with additional lateral restraint, three-point seatbelt in the rear, front airbag and immobiliser and steering lock.
Unsurprisingly, given its unique looks and low 450kg weight, Twizy is great to drive. With 57Nm of instant torque available, it’s also capable of giving much more expensive cars, not to mention white van men and taxis, something to think about when it comes to nipping around the city. Renault’s intriguing two-seater is capable of up to 50 mph and full charge takes three and a half hours, providing a range of up to 60 miles on the urban cycle. Monthly battery hire for Twizy costs from £40 including VAT, based on three years and 4,500 miles per year.
