Renault India has laid out a wide-ranging plan for the country. It covers new SUVs, hybrid engines, electric cars, local production and a bigger showroom network. The details were shared by Francisco Hidalgo Marques, the company's Vice President for Sales and Marketing.
Hybrid Duster First
A hybrid version of the Duster will arrive in the coming months. Renault says it will use the same hybrid system it already sells in Europe, not a weaker version made only for India. The company expects strong fuel efficiency, easy driving and good performance. It believes the technology suits city traffic, where cars keep stopping and moving.
Hybrids Beyond the Duster
The Duster is just the beginning. A seven-seater C-SUV is due next year, and it will carry hybrid technology as well. By the end of next year, the already announced 4-metre SUV will reach the market with petrol, hybrid, CNG and electric options.
Hybrid systems are expensive. Renault says fitting them into small, entry-level cars does not make financial sense, so it will focus on vehicles above four metres. The company also plans to make the same hybrid technology in India, calling localisation a key part of its strategy.
Electric Cars From End-2027
Battery electric models will join the range from the end of 2027, with several cars planned. Renault sees electrification as a spectrum that runs from mild and strong hybrids to range extenders and full battery vehicles. Right now, it believes strong hybrids are the best fit for Indian conditions, offering efficiency and performance together.
Once the shift is complete, every new Renault model in India will have some form of electrification.
Bigger Showroom Network
More than 50 new points of sale will open this year. Renault has traditionally been strong in rural areas and smaller cities. It now wants a larger share of big metros and key markets.
Exports From India
India's low production costs sit at the heart of Renault's global plans. The company wants to pair cheap manufacturing with modern technology. If it manages that, it sees markets such as Europe and South America opening up for cars built in India.
Packed Launch Calendar
From September, Renault says no gap will be longer than two or three months without a major announcement, whether a new engine, gearbox or model. The company expects double-digit growth and wants its network to keep pace.
The Duster also comes with a seven-year warranty under the Renault Forever programme. Owners must service the car every year at authorised workshops to keep the cover active. Renault says selling a car is not the end of the relationship with a buyer, but the start of one.