Renault Group Strengthens Indian Operations with Full Ownership of Chennai Plant, Sets Stage for Global Expansion

 

 

Renault Group has taken a decisive step in expanding its international footprint by acquiring the remaining 51% stake in the Chennai manufacturing facility (RNAIPL) from Nissan, making it the sole owner of one of India’s major automotive plants. This strategic move positions India as a key industrial and innovation hub in Renault’s global growth roadmap.

As the world’s third-largest automotive market, India continues to be central to Renault’s long-term ambitions. Following a robust 7% market growth in 2024 and a projected 3.5% increase in 2025, the country offers a strong supplier base and an increasingly sophisticated automotive ecosystem. Renault’s full control of RNAIPL marks a bold shift in its operational strategy, further consolidating India’s role in the Group’s global operations.

New Leadership to Drive India Strategy

To spearhead this next phase of growth, Stéphane Deblaise has been appointed CEO of Renault Group India, effective September 1, 2025. With extensive global experience and deep operational insight, Deblaise is tasked with accelerating Renault’s momentum in India, both in terms of domestic sales and export capabilities.

India: A Strategic Pillar of the ‘International Game Plan 2027’

Renault’s Chennai plant, established in 2010, has already produced over 2.8 million vehicles and 4.6 million powertrains, with 1.2 million units exported to more than 100 countries. Operating with a robust network of nearly 300 local suppliers, the plant has a current annual capacity of over 400,000 vehicles and is set to be upgraded with a new modular, multi-energy platform to support Renault’s future models.

This move aligns with Renault’s broader International Game Plan 2027, which targets rapid growth in emerging markets and innovation hubs. India, with over 50% of its population under 28, is positioned as a youth-driven, tech-savvy market, making it a fertile ground for Renault’s next-generation offerings.

A New Product Offensive Begins

Renault is also preparing a four-model product offensive, beginning with the recently launched New Triber, signaling its commitment to local innovation and customer-centric design. The newly owned plant will support these launches, as well as continue producing vehicles for Nissan, underscoring continued cooperation between the two automakers despite the structural shift.

Statement from Renault Group Leadership

“India is a key market for Renault Group. With full ownership of our Chennai plant, we now have the agility and scale to accelerate our ambitions,” said François Provost, CEO of Renault Group. “Stéphane Deblaise’s leadership will be critical as we take the next leap forward in India—one of our most promising growth engines globally.”

Wider Presence Across India

The Renault brand maintains a strong retail and aftersales footprint in India, with over 350 sales outlets and 450 service centers nationwide. With the Chennai plant and engineering resources now fully aligned under Renault Group, the brand is poised for a stronger, more autonomous future in one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive landscapes.

Also Read: All-New Renault Triber Launched with Bold Design and Feature Upgrades

Follow Us On Instagram