In a bold move to democratize electric mobility, Dacia—the budget-friendly subsidiary of the French automotive giant Renault Group—has unveiled its latest innovation in the EV space. Known for offering the Spring, Europe’s most affordable full-sized electric vehicle, Dacia is now teasing something even more compact and clever: the Hipster concept. This pint-sized electric car, still in prototype form, is already turning heads with its ingenious blend of diminutive size, quirky style, surprising interior space, and unwavering commitment to sustainability.
Positioned as a more accessible entry point below the Spring in Dacia’s lineup, the Hipster measures just 3 meters in length—about 0.7 meters shorter than its sibling—yet promises to comfortably seat four adults. It’s envisioned as the ultimate “smart car” for urban dwellers, boasting a significantly lighter kerb weight and designed to slash the vehicle’s life-cycle carbon footprint in half compared to today’s typical EVs. By prioritizing efficiency from the ground up, the Hipster embodies Dacia’s mission to make green driving not just viable, but irresistible for the masses.
At first glance, the Hipster’s specs read like a blueprint for minimalist perfection. In its concept guise, it clocks in at 3,000 mm long, 1,550 mm wide, and 1,530 mm high, making it nimbler than many city bikes. Despite the compact footprint, the interior is a masterclass in space utilization: it can snugly fit up to four adults, with a reconfigurable boot that starts at a modest 70 liters (2.5 cubic feet) but expands to a generous 500 liters (17.7 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded flat. All of this comes in at a featherweight 800 kg (1,764 pounds), which not only aids in agility but also contributes to lower energy consumption and emissions throughout its lifecycle.
The Hipster’s boxy, retro-futuristic design is a deliberate nod to Dacia’s “Eco-Smart” philosophy, which fuses environmental responsibility with practical ingenuity. Up front, slim horizontal headlamps give it a wide-eyed, approachable vibe, while the rear features a clever two-part tailgate for easy loading. Side protection comes courtesy of the innovative “Starkle” system, a lightweight barrier that enhances safety without adding bulk. Sustainability shines through in the materials too: the side panels are crafted from recycled plastic, and the entire body sports a single, no-fuss color scheme to streamline production and reduce waste.
True to its cost-conscious roots, the Hipster keeps extravagances at bay—literally. Instead of traditional door handles, it opts for simple fabric straps, evoking a backpack-on-wheels aesthetic that’s as functional as it is endearing. This stripped-back approach isn’t about skimping; it’s about reimagining what an EV can be: accessible, eco-friendly, and unapologetically fun.
While the Hipster remains a concept for now, its debut signals Dacia’s intent to shake up the European EV market once again. With urban congestion on the rise and sustainability demands louder than ever, this tiny titan could herald a new era of “people’s EVs”—affordable, efficient, and engineered for real life. As production rumors swirl, one thing’s clear: Dacia isn’t just building cars; it’s building a movement. Stay tuned for when this hip little number hits the streets.
