The carmaker was originally planning not to introduce the 45bhp version in the UK, but said the introduction of a new European licence for 16-year-olds which comes into effect from the 19^th January meant it was re-thinking its sales potential.

Twizy arrived at Renault’s 22 Z.E. Expert dealerships today, with the first customer collecting their two-seater at a dealer in Bournemouth this morning. Demonstration vehicles are being prioritised for dealers in urban areas, with the remainder of the network getting the new model from the 20^th April.

In its most basic form, the Twizy 45 is 5bhp less powerful than the entry-level model now available in the UK. Because driver and passenger are protected and strapped in place, it can be driven with no protective clothing or helmet.