Renault's upcoming PIXO electric city car has been caught on camera during road testing, revealing a compact, playful design that the French automaker aims to bring to the urban mobility segment. The spy shots, published by Chinese outlet Gasgoo, show the model undergoing development ahead of a planned reveal on September 23.
The PIXO is built on Renault's AmpR Small platform, which also underpins other small EVs in the group's lineup. Despite heavy camouflage, the test vehicle's styling is visible: a rounded front end with rectangular headlights, a sealed grille typical of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), and a dotted lower intake that gives the nose a distinctive look.
Side profiles show a sleek silhouette with semi-hidden door handles and low-drag wheels, both contributing to aerodynamic efficiency. The rear is compact and muscular, with curved lines that reinforce the car's friendly, approachable character. Interior details have not been officially released, but online reports suggest the PIXO will feature a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch central touchscreen, while retaining some physical buttons for key functions.
Powertrain and range
Under the skin, the PIXO will be powered by a single electric motor producing 60 kW (about 80 hp) and a top speed of 130 km/h. The motor draws energy from a 27.5 kWh battery pack, which, according to the source, delivers a WLTC range of more than 263 km. Since WLTC is a European testing standard, this figure is directly comparable to similar city EVs sold in Europe, though real-world range will vary with driving conditions.
The PIXO's positioning targets the growing demand for affordable, compact EVs in Europe and other markets where small cars are popular. Renault has been expanding its electric lineup, and the PIXO is expected to slot below the larger Mégane E-Tech and Scenic E-Tech models, offering a more accessible entry point for urban buyers.
Gasgoo notes that the model is still in the testing phase, with more details expected closer to the official launch date. The spy shots do not reveal any pricing information, but analysts expect the PIXO to compete with other small BEVs such as the Dacia Spring and the upcoming Citroën ë-C3.
Renault has not yet confirmed whether the PIXO will be sold outside Europe. Given the brand's global footprint, a rollout in other regions, including China, cannot be ruled out, but no official plans have been announced.
For now, the PIXO remains a glimpse of what Renault believes urban EV buyers want: a compact, efficient, and visually appealing car that makes electric driving accessible. The September reveal will show whether the production version lives up to the promise of these early spy shots.
