In a significant move to reinforce its global expansion strategy, Renault Group has acquired the remaining 51% stake in its Chennai-based joint venture plant, Renault Nissan Automotive India Private Ltd (RNAIPL), previously held by Nissan. With this acquisition, Renault becomes the sole owner of the facility and gains complete operational control, further integrating the Indian market into its international roadmap.
India: A Strategic Growth Engine for Renault Group
As the world’s third-largest automotive market, India witnessed a 7% growth in 2024 and is projected to grow by 3.5% in 2025. With a thriving supplier network, robust manufacturing infrastructure, and a young population (over 50% under the age of 28), India has emerged as a critical pillar in Renault Group’s “International Game Plan 2027.”
Renault’s decision to fully acquire RNAIPL comes on the heels of two other major announcements — the launch of the new Renault Triber, and the opening of Renault’s largest design center outside France, marking a bold new phase of its operations in the country.
Leadership Transition: Stéphane Deblaise Appointed as CEO, India
To steer this transformation, Stéphane Deblaise will take over as CEO of Renault Group in India, effective September 1, 2025. With deep experience across the global automotive value chain, Deblaise is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening Renault’s footprint and executing its vision in the region.
“India is a key market for Renault Group. With full ownership of our plant in Chennai, we now have all the means to accelerate here,” said François Provost, CEO, Renault Group.
Chennai Plant: A Proven Production Powerhouse
Since its launch in 2010, the Chennai plant has produced more than 2.8 million vehicles, including 1.2 million units exported to over 100 countries. The facility, supported by an ecosystem of nearly 300 local suppliers, also produced 4.6 million engines and gearboxes and boasts a production capacity of 400,000 vehicles annually.
The plant currently supports the CMF-A and CMF-A+ platforms and is now preparing to integrate Renault’s new multi-energy modular platform, enabling flexible production of next-gen vehicles tailored to both domestic and export markets.
Despite the ownership shift, Renault confirmed that cooperation with Nissan will continue, and the Chennai plant will continue producing Nissan models as per existing plans.
Renault’s Future in India
With over 350 sales outlets and 450 service centers nationwide, Renault is gearing up for an aggressive product offensive in India. This includes the launch of four new models, starting with the New Renault Triber, aimed at meeting the evolving needs of Indian consumers and reinforcing the company’s position in the fast-growing mobility sector.
This strategic consolidation reinforces Renault’s commitment to India — not just as a market, but as a global innovation, manufacturing, and R&D hub for the future of mobility.
