The Dacia Spring Electric 45 (2024) marks a significant milestone in the electric vehicle (EV) market, offering an affordable and efficient solution for urban mobility. As one of the most budget-friendly electric cars on the market, it combines practicality with modern technology. Its compact design and impressive range make it an ideal choice for city dwellers seeking a sustainable and cost-effective transportation option. This comprehensive review will delve into the key aspects of the Dacia Spring Electric 45, including its performance, battery and charging capabilities, design, infotainment features, comfort, and safety.
Dacia Spring Electric 45 (2024) Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Launch | Announced: 2024, February 21 Released: 2024, April |
| Base Price | €17,000 / $18,500 / £14,500 |
| Performance | |
| Power | FWD 33 kW (45 hp) |
| Torque | 125 Nm (92 lb-ft) |
| Acceleration | 19 sec 0-100 km/h |
| Max Speed | 125 km/h (78 mph) |
| Battery | |
| Capacity | 26.8 kWh usable, 27.4 kWh total |
| Tech | Air-cooled Li-ion 240V |
| Range | 220 km WLTP |
| Consumption | 14.6 kWh/100 km WLTP |
| Recuperation | Yes |
| Heat Pump | No |
| AC Charging | Type 2 7 kW, 20-100% in 4 hours |
| DC Charging | CCS 30 kW, 20-80% in 45 min |
| Vehicle to Load (V2L) | Max output 220V/16A |
| Body | |
| Type | 5 door crossover, 2/4 seats |
| Platform | CMF-A |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | |
| Clearance | 150 mm (5.9 in) |
| Weight | EU: 984 kg unladen |
| Suspension | Front pseudo Mac-Pherson, rear H-axle with helical springs |
| Wheels | R15 |
| Trunk | EU: 308 l, 1004 l max |
| Frunk | 35 l |
| Towing | No |
| Displays | |
| Center | 10″ touchscreen |
| Driver’s | 7″ |
| Head-up | No |
| Comfort | |
| Seats | No heated seats |
| Roof | No glass roof |
| Parking Aids | Rear sensors, reversing camera, rear park assist |
| Connectivity | Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay |
| Safety | |
| Airbags | Front airbags, side airbags (front) |
| Driving Aids | Advanced emergency braking system, traffic sign recognition, lane change alert, lane keeping assist, driver attention warning |
| Self Driving |
Performance
The Dacia Spring Electric 45 offers a modest yet efficient performance, making it well-suited for urban driving. Equipped with a 33 kW (45 hp) front-wheel-drive motor, it generates a torque of 125 Nm (92 lb-ft). This powertrain enables the vehicle to reach a maximum speed of 125 km/h (78 mph). Although its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 19 seconds may not be the quickest, it is adequate for city traffic and short commutes.
The performance of the Dacia Spring Electric 45 is optimized for efficiency rather than speed. Its lightweight construction, combined with the electric motor’s instant torque, provides a responsive and agile driving experience in urban environments. Moreover, the vehicle’s small turning radius and compact dimensions make it exceptionally maneuverable in tight spaces and crowded streets.
Battery and Charging
One of the standout features of the Dacia Spring Electric 45 is its battery and charging capabilities. The vehicle is powered by a 26.8 kWh usable (27.4 kWh total) air-cooled lithium-ion battery. This setup provides a practical range of 220 km on the WLTP cycle, which is sufficient for most daily commutes and urban driving needs.
Charging the Dacia Spring Electric 45 is both convenient and efficient. The vehicle supports AC charging via a Type 2 connector at 7 kW, allowing a full charge from 20% to 100% in approximately 4 hours. For those needing a quicker top-up, the DC fast-charging option using a CCS connector at 30 kW can charge the battery from 20% to 80% in just 45 minutes. Additionally, the vehicle’s Vehicle to Load (V2L) capability provides a maximum output of 220V/16A, which can be useful for powering external devices.
Despite not having a heat pump, the Dacia Spring Electric 45 manages energy efficiently through its recuperation system, which helps extend the driving range by converting kinetic energy back into electrical energy during braking and deceleration.
Design and Dimensions
The design of the Dacia Spring Electric 45 reflects a balance between functionality and modern aesthetics. As a 5-door crossover, it offers practicality with a touch of style. The CMF-A platform underpins its robust structure, ensuring durability and safety.
In terms of dimensions, the Dacia Spring Electric 45 is compact yet spacious. Although specific wheelbase measurements are not provided, the vehicle’s clearance of 150 mm (5.9 in) ensures it can handle various road conditions comfortably. The unladen weight of 984 kg contributes to its efficiency and agility, making it easy to navigate through city streets.
The vehicle features R15 wheels, which provide a smooth ride while maintaining good traction. The trunk space is notably generous for a car of its size, offering 308 liters in standard configuration and up to 1004 liters with the rear seats folded. Additionally, a 35-liter frunk adds to the overall cargo capacity, providing extra storage for small items.
The exterior design is complemented by a well-crafted front bumper and sleek lines that enhance its aerodynamic profile. However, the lack of a glass roof might be a minor drawback for those seeking a more open and airy cabin experience.
Infotainment and Displays
The Dacia Spring Electric 45 is equipped with a comprehensive infotainment system that enhances the driving experience. At the heart of the system is a 10-inch touchscreen display, which serves as the central hub for all multimedia and connectivity functions. The user-friendly interface ensures easy access to various features, including navigation, music, and vehicle settings.
The driver’s display is a 7-inch screen that provides essential information such as speed, battery level, and range. Although the vehicle does not have a head-up display, the clear and concise presentation of data on the driver’s screen ensures that important information is always within view.
Connectivity is a strong point for the Dacia Spring Electric 45. It supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing seamless integration of smartphones with the infotainment system. This feature enables drivers to use their favorite apps, make hands-free calls, and access navigation services effortlessly.
While the vehicle does not boast advanced features like ambient lighting or a premium sound system, its infotainment setup is adequate for the needs of most urban drivers. The system’s simplicity and ease of use are in line with the vehicle’s overall philosophy of practicality and affordability.
Comfort and Convenience
Comfort and convenience are key considerations in the design of the Dacia Spring Electric 45. Despite its compact size, the vehicle offers a surprisingly comfortable interior with thoughtful amenities. The seats, although not heated, are well-cushioned and provide adequate support for short to medium-length journeys.
The absence of a glass roof is compensated by a bright and airy cabin, thanks to large windows that allow plenty of natural light. The seating configuration is flexible, accommodating either two or four passengers depending on the model. The inclusion of seat covers enhances durability and ease of maintenance.
Parking aids are a notable feature of the Dacia Spring Electric 45, with rear sensors, a reversing camera, and rear park assist making parking in tight spaces a breeze. These aids are particularly useful in urban settings where parking can be challenging.
Connectivity features extend beyond the infotainment system. The vehicle is equipped with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring that passengers can stay connected on the go. This wireless connectivity eliminates the need for cables, reducing clutter in the cabin and enhancing the overall convenience.
Safety Features
Safety is a paramount concern for any vehicle, and the Dacia Spring Electric 45 is no exception. The vehicle is equipped with a range of safety features designed to protect occupants and enhance driving confidence. It includes front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, providing essential protection in the event of a collision.
Advanced driving aids further enhance safety. The vehicle is equipped with an advanced emergency braking system that detects vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycles. This system can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate collisions. Traffic sign recognition with speed alert ensures that drivers are always aware of the current speed limit, while lane change alert and lane keeping assist help maintain lane discipline.
Driver attention warning is another valuable safety feature, alerting the driver if signs of fatigue or distraction are detected. While the vehicle does not offer full self-driving capabilities, these driving aids contribute to a safer and more controlled driving experience.
The Dacia Spring Electric 45 has undergone rigorous crash tests, earning commendable safety ratings. Its robust construction, combined with the array of safety features, ensures that occupants are well-protected in various driving scenarios. This emphasis on safety underscores Dacia’s commitment to providing secure and reliable transportation solutions.
Summary: Legacy and Influence on Future Electric Vehicle Development
In conclusion, the Dacia Spring Electric 45 (2024) is more than just an affordable electric vehicle; it represents a significant step forward in the democratization of electric mobility. By offering a budget-friendly, efficient, and practical EV, Dacia has opened up the market to a broader audience, making sustainable transportation accessible to more people. This model’s balance of performance, range, and features positions it as a strong contender in the urban EV market.
The Dacia Spring Electric 45 sets a benchmark for future developments in the electric vehicle sector. Its combination of affordability and practicality challenges other manufacturers to rethink their strategies and offer more accessible options. Additionally, the emphasis on essential features without unnecessary luxuries highlights a trend towards more sustainable and user-focused vehicle design.
As we look to the future, the influence of the Dacia Spring Electric 45 will likely be seen in the continued expansion of affordable electric vehicles. Its success could inspire other automakers to develop similar models, further accelerating the shift towards electric mobility. Moreover, the innovations and design principles demonstrated in this vehicle may lead to advancements in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and overall vehicle efficiency.
Ultimately, the Dacia Spring Electric 45 is a testament to the potential of electric vehicles to provide practical and sustainable transportation solutions. Its legacy will be defined by its role in making electric mobility more accessible and its impact on shaping the future of the automotive industry.
By offering an in-depth review of the Dacia Spring Electric 45, we hope to provide potential buyers with the information they need to make an informed decision. Whether you’re seeking an affordable entry into the world of electric vehicles or a practical solution for urban commuting, the Dacia Spring Electric 45 presents a compelling option that combines efficiency, affordability, and practicality.
