Renault seems to have developed a strong liking for the Indian car market. Renault aims at doubling-up its market share to about 5% in next three to four years with the launch of its Sub Rs 4-lakh car. Sumit Sawhney, CEO and Managing Director, Renault India, said, “India would continue to remain a small car market. About 50 per cent of the cars sold are in the sub Rs 4-lakh segments. How can any automobile company stay out of this segment?”
As per sources, Renault has been working with Nissan to develop a new hatchback based on the Datsun Redi Go platform. During inauguration of company's second showroom in Kolkata, Sawhney added, “Our current market share is 2.6 per cent and in the mid-term (3-4 Years) we aim to double the market share.” A financing arm for allied partners is expected to provide with financial support to customers and dealers. Technical specifications and pricing for the upcoming hatchback has not been revealed for now, and shall be spoken about in detail post an official launch sometime in the year 2015 by the car-maker.
Renault intends on introducing the cross-badging concept - one car under different brand names with cosmetic changes to the Indian market. It is uncertain if RCI Banque under Renault group shall establish their business in India. The upcoming car is expected to generate ample sales as the hatchback shall be positioned under the 4 Lakh bracket. Sumit Sawhney, added, “We are looking to augment our dealer network to 175 by the end of 2014.”
News also has been doing rounds that Renault is gearing up to launch Dacia Lodgy MPV in India. The launch could happen anytime in the first quarter of 2015. The MPV from Renault is expected to be powered with a 1.5 Litre diesel engine that company currently proffers in its flagship compact SUV, Duster. The 1.5 litre diesel mill generates a varied power output of 85 Ps and 105 PS. The petrol variant of Lodgy can be powered by a 1.6 litre gasoline engine which will again be borrowed from Duster SUV.
