Dacia's Best-Selling SUV Will Soon Be Electric | Carscoops

      Nonetheless, the current gasoline and hybrid versions will remain available well into the 2030s.

      Dacia is set to introduce an electric Duster alongside its existing gas and hybrid models.

      The electric SUV is anticipated to use the CMF-BEV platform and will feature an available 4×4 option.

      Design modifications on the electric Duster are expected to be minimal in order to keep costs down.

      Dacia is gearing up to expand its electric offerings in the upcoming years, slowly moving beyond its only EV model, the Spring. The Romanian manufacturer intends to roll out electric powertrain options throughout its range, including the popular Duster SUV.

      The fully electric version is expected to maintain the rugged character of its combustion and hybrid siblings while continuing Dacia’s commitment to delivering affordable vehicles.

      Reports from Autocar indicate that CEO Denis Le Vot has confirmed that an electric Duster “will come in time,” but he did not specify a launch date. Further details regarding the brand's electrification strategy are anticipated during a special event in November.

      Electric Duster Expected to Utilize CMF-BEV Platform

      The forthcoming electric Duster is likely to be based on the CMF-BEV architecture, also known as AmpR Small. This platform underlies the Renault 5 and 4 and will also support upcoming EVs from Nissan, including the new Micra and Juke. Its adaptability for both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations makes it suitable for the Duster’s objectives.

      Dacia plans to implement the same platform across its entire EV lineup in the future. This transition appears to be straightforward since the CMF-BEV is an evolution of the current CMF-B platform already utilized for the brand’s ICE and hybrid models, such as the Sandero, Jogger, Duster, and Bigster.

      The shared components between the two platforms may enable Dacia to manufacture future EVs alongside their combustion-engine models in the same factories, which would help reduce production costs.

      Minimal Design Changes Anticipated

      At this time, it is unclear whether the electric Duster will differ from the design of the current ICE models. However, based on Dacia’s emphasis on cost reduction, it is reasonable to assume that the design updates will not be extensive. After all, the third-generation Duster was launched in late 2023, so it still has a modern appearance.

      When the Duster EV is released, it will compete with an increasing variety of compact electric SUVs. Notable rivals will include the mechanically similar Renault 4 E-Tech, the upcoming Fiat Grande Panda 4×4, as well as the Jeep Avenger, Suzuki e-Vitara, and Toyota Urban Cruiser electric models.

      Before the Duster adds an EV option, Dacia plans to launch an electric version of the Sandero supermini in 2027, along with an affordable urban EV that will replace the smaller Spring. Additionally, the automaker is developing two new ICE-powered compact models to join the Bigster at the high end of the lineup, initially available with gasoline and hybrid powertrains.

      ICE-Powered Duster Will Continue to be Available

      It's essential to note that the Duster EV will not replace the current model that comes with gasoline, LPG, and hybrid power options and is expected to remain on the market well into the 2030s.

      Recent reports indicated that the hybrid Duster will soon feature a new 4×4 version equipped with an electrified rear axle, akin to the rival Jeep Avenger 4Xe. With Europe’s ICE ban set to commence in 2035, there is ample time for new and updated models to emerge.