A Sub-$25,000 Push for Affordable Urban Mobility
As global automakers face tough competition from low-cost Chinese imports, Nissan is preparing an entry-level answer for the European market.
A camouflaged test mule for Nissan’s upcoming budget city car, tentatively named the Nissan Wave, was recently spotted on public roads for the first time. Planned for an early 2027 debut, this compact EV targets a starting price under €20,000 (roughly $23,200 USD) before subsidies.
The Renault Connection
Instead of developing an expensive new platform from scratch, Nissan is leaning on its alliance partner, Renault Group.
The Wave will share Renault’s dedicated AmpR Small platform, making it a close sibling to the upcoming electric Renault Twingo:
- Built in Europe: Assembly will take place at Renault’s factory in Novo Mesto, Slovakia.
- Slotting Below the Micra: It will serve as Nissan’s smallest and most affordable electric offering, sitting directly underneath the upcoming Micra EV.
- Custom Styling: Early spy photos show Nissan-specific styling cues, including distinctive front-end lighting and unique bumper treatments that align with Nissan’s current design language.
Expected Specs and Urban Range
Official performance figures are still under wraps, but the shared AmpR Small architecture gives a clear look at what drivers can expect:
| Metric | Target Specification |
| Battery Chemistry | Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) |
| Battery Capacity | ~27.5 kWh |
| Motor Output | 60 kW (82 hp) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 263 km (163 miles) |
| Expected Launch | First half of 2027 |
| Starting Price | Under €20,000 (~$23,200 USD) |
Why the Sub-€20K Segment Matters
The race to build cars under the €20,000 mark has become the defining challenge for electric mobility in Europe. Budget models like the BYD Dolphin Surf and Leapmotor T03 are placing enormous pressure on traditional automakers to lower entry prices.
After pausing work on an electric Qashqai to rethink its broader lineup, Nissan is shifting focus toward practical, high-volume city cars. By combining a modest LFP battery pack with shared alliance manufacturing, the Wave aims to offer a practical commuter car that keeps costs down for everyday drivers.