Dacia has started taking UK orders for its new fully electric Spring SUV, at prices starting from £14,995 on the road.

Heavily pitched by its makers as the most affordable new electric car in the UK, the Spring is available in right-hand-drive for the first time, having been on sale for two years in Europe and sold more than 140,000 globally since launch.

Powered by a choice of 45hp or 65hp motors the Spring has a WLTP-certified range between charges of up to 140 miles. While this is significantly less than more expensive potential rivals, Dacia argues that data collected via the onboard connected systems of previously-sold Springs shows that the average daily trip made by drivers covers just 23 miles, at an average speed of only 23mph. In 75% of cases, cars are recharged at home.

Charging options for the Spring include fast DC charging which can replenish the battery from completely flat to 80%  in 56 minutes or from 20 to 80% in 45 minutes. With a 10-amp callbox the full charging time is 8hr 28min, 13h 32min using a domestic plug.

Dacia is also promoting the Spring’s weight, dubbing it the only fully-electric car weighing under one tonne in Europe. In terms of space the car offers 308 litres in the boot extending to 1004 litres with the rear seats folded while an extra 35-litre storage area under the bonnet can be specified as an option.

In the UK the Spring will be available in two trim levels dubbed Expression and Extreme – the entry-level Essential trim of European-specification models is not on offer to UK buyers.

Expression models are available with both motor choices, the 65hp variant adding £1,000 to the purchase cost. Highlights of the standard equipment list are a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, cruise control, steering wheel mounted controls, central locking with remote control, electric front windows, rear parking sensors, and manual air conditioning.

The Extreme trim is only on offer with the 65hp power train at £116,995. It adds copper interior and exterior finishes, electric mirrors and rear windows, the Media Nav Live multimedia system with 10-inch centre screen, two USB ports and wireless connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus vehicle-to-load allowing the car to be used as a power source for external appliances.