Renault Duster EV Confirmed: Electric SUV May Arrive in India After Global Launch
In a major step towards electrifying its popular SUV portfolio, Renault has confirmed an all-electric Duster EV, set to debut after the 2027 Dacia Sandero EV. The electric Duster will be built on Renault’s CMF-BEV platform, a dedicated EV architecture that also underpins the Renault 5 and 4 crossover EVs.
The announcement came from Dacia CEO Denis Le Vot, confirming that the electric Duster “will come in time.” This news aligns with Autocar UK’s earlier scoop and Renault’s broader EV strategy in line with Europe’s 2035 ICE vehicle ban.
Platform & AWD Capability: CMF-BEV Takes Center Stage
The new CMF-BEV platform, a modified version of the CMF-B used in the petrol-powered Duster, will support both FWD and 4x4 configurations, thanks to its ability to house dual motors—one on each axle. Renault’s recent 4x4 concept based on this platform confirms this capability.
This positions the upcoming Duster EV as a practical electric SUV for both urban and off-road users, a rare offering in the affordable EV segment.
Duster EV in India: What We Know So Far
While the next-gen ICE Duster is slated for an early 2026 launch in India, Renault is also working on hybrid and electric versions. EVINDIA sources earlier revealed that Renault-Nissan is in discussions with local battery cell manufacturers to build the Duster EV with heavy localization—a move that could bring down costs and make it India’s most value-centric electric SUV.
Although an India launch timeline for the Duster EV hasn’t been officially confirmed, sources suggest it could follow the global debut, sometime between 2027 and 2028.
Key Highlights of the Renault Duster EV
|
Feature |
Details |
|
Platform |
CMF-BEV (EV-dedicated, dual motor-ready) |
|
Drivetrain Options |
Likely FWD + AWD (4x4) |
|
Global Debut |
Post-2027 (After Sandero EV) |
|
India Launch Timeline |
Expected 2027–28 (with localization) |
|
Competitive Segment |
Compact Electric SUV / Affordable EV SUV |
|
Pricing Strategy |
Likely sub-₹20 lakh if locally manufactured |
Final Thoughts: Duster EV Could Disrupt the Affordable EV SUV Market
With the potential to offer AWD, compact design, and localization-backed pricing, the Renault Duster EV could be a game-changer for India's mid-size electric SUV market—challenging the likes of Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV400, and upcoming Maruti eVX. If priced competitively and launched on schedule, it may become India’s first mainstream 4x4 electric SUV with real off-road capability and family-friendly dimensions.