Renault, the renowned French car manufacturer, has firmly established its presence in the Indian automotive market for over 15 years, boasting popular models such as the Kwid and Duster. While the Duster has been discontinued, Renault’s lineup in India currently features the Kwid 1.0, Triber, and Kiger. Recent reports have hinted at Renault’s ambitious plans to launch electric vehicles (EVs) in the Indian market within the next 12 to 24 months. However, the company’s strategy goes even further, with plans to introduce strong hybrid cars in India.
Renault’s Multi-Powertrain Strategy: According to Autocar Professional, Renault is diligently working on a multi-powertrain strategy tailored for the Indian market. Notably, the brand has entirely phased out diesel engines across its models, and CNG-powered vehicles are not on their immediate radar. Instead, Renault is steering its efforts toward expanding its product portfolio, with a focus on introducing strong hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Venkatram Mamillapalle, Renault India’s Managing Director, stated, “We have petrol (naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines), we will have a range of EVs, and the first EV may come in by 2024 or 2025. Our products are ethanol-ready, capable of running on even E100 fuel, and then we will have plug-in hybrids and strong hybrids for the Indian market.”
The Appeal of Strong Hybrids: Renault’s decision to explore strong hybrid cars in the Indian market aligns with the growing preference for these vehicles among consumers. Manufacturers like Maruti Suzuki, Toyota, and Honda have received a positive response from customers for their strong hybrid offerings. Strong hybrids are celebrated for their fuel efficiency, and they have already captured 1.6 percent of the total market share. Maruti Suzuki and Toyota have collectively sold over 60,000 units of strong hybrid models, with some experiencing substantial waiting periods.
Moving Towards Plug-In Hybrids: In addition to strong hybrids, Renault is also venturing into the plug-in hybrid segment. While this technology is costlier due to its dual capability as both an electric vehicle and an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle, it offers significant advantages. Renault is exploring the potential of this segment and aims to establish a foothold. To enhance affordability, the company plans to localize production of plug-in hybrids, applying a similar strategy to strong hybrids and electric vehicles.
Electric Vehicles: The Ultimate Goal: Renault’s strategic roadmap ultimately leads to electric vehicles, viewed as the future of mobility. The introduction of strong hybrids and plug-in hybrids serves as a bridge toward full EV adoption. Renault is committed to launching an electric car priced below Rs 10 lakh, backed by a substantial investment of Rs 5,300 crore in collaboration with Nissan Motor in India. This upcoming electric vehicle will compete with models like the Tata Tiago EV and MG Comet. It is rumored to be based on the Dacia Spring platform, which shares its underpinnings with the Kwid hatchback. Renault is gearing up to introduce 6-9 models in the Indian market, including mid-cycle updates for existing models, as it strives to shape the future of mobility in India.
