Dacia Duster Goes Electric: Affordable Compact SUV Set to Join the EV Revolution

Dacia’s iconic Duster is about to enter a new era as the brand gets ready to electrify its most popular SUV. As part of Dacia’s broader strategy to offer more electric vehicles beyond the well-known Spring, the all-electric Duster will combine the brand’s budget-friendly DNA with eco-conscious performance.

Dacia’s Electric Vision: Expanding the EV Lineup

Dacia has been a major player in delivering practical, affordable cars to the global market. Now, the Romanian automaker is embracing the future of mobility by steadily introducing electric powertrain options across its vehicle range. After the incredible success of the Duster in the compact SUV category, transforming this model into an EV is the logical next step for the brand’s electrification journey.

Dacia CEO Denis Le Vot recently confirmed that the all-electric Duster is on the horizon. Although a specific launch date remains under wraps, more details on Dacia’s electrification plans are expected to surface at a dedicated event scheduled for November.

Electric Platform & Technical Specifications

CMF-BEV: The Modern Electric Architecture

The upcoming Duster EV will likely utilize the Renault-Nissan Group’s CMF-BEV platform, also branded as AmpR Small. This next-gen electric architecture is already used by the new Renault 5 and Renault 4, and will underpin future Nissan EVs like the Micra and Juke. Its adaptability for front- and all-wheel-drive makes it a perfect fit for the Duster’s adventurous spirit, while shared components with existing petrol and hybrid models help streamline production and reduce costs.

By leveraging the CMF-BEV chassis—which is an advancement of the CMF-B platform employed on the Sandero, Jogger, Duster, and Bigster—Dacia aims to seamlessly produce both electric and combustion-engine vehicles within the same factories. This approach strengthens Dacia’s reputation for delivering value-driven electric cars.

Design and Affordability

While there’s no official word yet on the final styling of the Dacia Duster EV, don’t expect a radical departure from the look of the recently updated third-generation Duster, unveiled in late 2023. Dacia is likely to continue its proven formula of keeping designs fresh yet cost-effective, ensuring the electric Duster remains accessible to a broad customer base.

Performance and Market Position

Although technical specifications such as battery size, driving range, and power output remain under wraps, the electric Duster is anticipated to retain the robust performance and practicality that have made the model a bestseller in Europe and beyond. Thanks to the flexible CMF-BEV platform, consumers can expect a blend of efficiency and capability, possibly including all-wheel-drive variants.

In terms of market competition, the Duster EV will face off against other compact electric SUVs, including the Renault 4 E-Tech, Fiat Grande Panda 4x4, Jeep Avenger, as well as the Suzuki e-Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser electric twins. With its emphasis on affordability, the Duster EV is well-positioned to attract both newcomers to electric vehicles and loyal Dacia fans seeking economical SUV choices.

Future Models and Dacia’s Strategy

Ahead of the Duster EV's debut, Dacia will be launching an electric Sandero supermini in 2027, along with a new urban EV that will replace the entry-level Spring. The brand also plans to introduce two ICE-powered compact vehicles to complement the flagship Bigster SUV, initially available with gasoline and hybrid drivetrains.

The ICE-Powered Duster Continues

Importantly, Dacia’s move toward electrification does not spell the end for the existing Duster lineup. The current Duster—available in petrol, LPG, and hybrid versions—will remain on sale well into the 2030s. Dacia is even working on a new 4x4 hybrid Duster variant featuring an electrified rear axle, similar in approach to the Jeep Avenger 4Xe.

With Europe’s ban on internal combustion engines not set to take effect until 2035, Dacia’s multifaceted approach ensures that customers can choose between combustion, hybrid, and fully electric Duster models, reinforcing the SUV’s status as one of the most versatile and accessible options in the compact SUV market.