Dacia’s Hipster EV redefines ‘Less is More’

Dacia has unveiled a new concept that goes against the grain of modern car design. Called the Hipster, this tiny electric runabout aims to strip motoring back to its bare essentials; compact, efficient, and affordable. It’s a little bit different in a world where vehicles keep growing larger, heavier, and more expensive.

At just 3.0 metres long, 1.55 metres wide and 1.53 metres tall, the Hipster is tiny. Its minimalist shape is all function: flat sides, squared-off bodywork and wheels pushed out to the corners maximise space inside, while sliding glass windows and a simple two-piece tailgate help save weight and cost.

Despite its tiny footprint, the Hipster seats four people, with a fabric mesh front bench and a clever folding rear seat that expands boot capacity from 70 to 500 litres. Inside, there’s no touchscreen or plush trim, just an open dashboard for storage and a smartphone mount in place of a full infotainment system.

Dacia hasn’t revealed drivetrain details yet, but says the Hipster’s battery has enough range for everyday driving, needing a recharge only twice a week. With most European city dwellers travelling under 40km a day, that suggests a small battery and around 150km of range; modest, but likely enough for urban commuting.

In keeping with Dacia’s “essential” philosophy, the Hipster uses sustainable materials like Starkle, a recycled plastic used for the bumpers and arches, while door straps replace traditional handles. Overall weight is said to be 20 per cent lighter than the brand’s existing Spring EV.

Whether the Hipster becomes a production model depends on European regulators. If the EU introduces a proposed ‘E-car’ category with relaxed safety rules for ultra-compact EVs, Dacia could have a genuine people’s electric car on its hands, one that makes simplicity cool again.