Commitment to New Markets
The "KWID Concept" unveiled by Renault at the Delhi Auto Expo in India represents Renault's new proposal for emerging markets, with India at the forefront. Previously, Renault's concept cars were first announced in Europe and then exhibited at motor shows worldwide. However, with the "KWID Concept," Renault has for the first time held a world premiere in a region outside of Europe.

In essence, the KWID Concept's primary objective is to meet the needs of younger users in new markets, and it also serves as a presentation to these future new Renault customers. It signifies Renault's commitment to enhancing its presence in expanding emerging markets while simultaneously introducing more global models to the international market.



The KWID Concept is designed based on ideas from "Renault Design India." The design renaissance initiated by Renault's chief designer, Laurens van den Acker, and the series of six concept cars themed around the lifecycle-based "6 petals" are well-known. The "KWID Concept" also embodies "Exploration," one of these six, representing a journey for two people.

With this background knowledge, one can truly appreciate the clear realization of the concept in the "KWID Concept." The massive tires and enveloping fenders, which evoke a sense of "exploration," signify its ability to traverse any terrain. Its stimulating proportions, resembling a buggy with short front and rear overhangs, the upward-opening pop-up doors, and its compact body size are also unique.

Equipment for "Exploration"

While the "KWID Concept" might appear to be an off-road model at first glance, its interior is futuristic. The interior is constructed with a cocoon-inspired round design and features seats inspired by bird nests. The aim is to create a space that is bright and open, yet offers a sense of security and enclosure.

It features a front three-seater layout with the driver positioned in the center, and a joystick-type steering wheel. To the left of the dashboard is a tablet PC for displaying and controlling various information, which can also be used to operate a flying companion (a remote-controlled helicopter).



The "Flying Companion," which takes off and flies from a storage space at the rear of the "KWID Concept's" roof, is more than just a hobby. It can fly automatically along pre-programmed routes linked to GPS, capture landscape photos in advance, detect obstacles ahead, and relay that information to the driver, thus acting as a device that safely supports "exploration."

The powertrain is a plug-in hybrid equipped with a 1.2-liter gasoline engine, paired with a dual-clutch transmission. The front bench seat and door openers are electric. There is no conventional shift lever; instead, operation is handled by touch switches located next to the steering wheel.

Another Point of Interest

In addition to its design and electronic devices, there is another noteworthy aspect of the "KWID Concept": an international team was organized for its development.

The exterior's base design was handled by the Brazil Design Studio, and finalized by the Design Technocenter in France. The interior was developed by Renault Design India, with the Design Technocenter in France providing the finishing touches. The vehicle's colors and materials were developed by a Japanese female designer at the Design Technocenter, in collaboration with an intern from India.



This multinational development structure, as well as the very act of developing a vehicle to meet global market needs, is a first for Renault.

While the basic target audience, with its five-seater configuration and capability to handle various road and weather conditions, is the Indian user base that witnessed its world premiere, the "KWID Concept" is brimming with ideas to meet true global needs. This is evident in its center-handlebar layout, which allows for seamless driving in both right-hand and left-hand traffic countries, alongside its performance capabilities.