Renault Group CEO: “India is a Central Pillar”; Confirms 2026 Duster and Welcomes REPM Scheme
In a series of strategic announcements, Renault Group has reaffirmed India as a cornerstone of its “International Game Plan 2027.” The French automaker has not only committed to a product offensive starting with the all-new Duster in 2026 but has also moved to take 100% ownership of its Chennai manufacturing facility.
Adding to this momentum, the leadership at Renault India has strongly endorsed the Government of India’s newly approved Rare Earth Permanent Magnet (REPM) scheme, terming it a “pivotal step” for the country’s automotive self-reliance.
100% Ownership of Chennai Plant: Accelerating “Made in India”
Renault Group has acquired the remaining 51% stake in the Renault Nissan Automotive India Private Ltd (RNAIPL) plant, marking a shift from a joint venture to a fully Renault-owned entity.
- Strategic Freedom: This move grants Renault full control to optimize production lines for its upcoming CMF-B platform SUVs.
- Export Hub: The facility is set to become a key global hub for manufacturing right-hand drive vehicles.
- R&D Integration: It allows for seamless collaboration with the Renault Design Centre Chennai, ensuring future models are tailored specifically for Indian tastes.
The “International Game Plan 2027”: Duster & Bigster
The CEO’s roadmap for India involves the launch of five new vehicles over the next three years.
- New Renault Duster (2026): The iconic SUV returns on the localized CMF-B platform. It will feature rugged looks and is expected to offer strong-hybrid powertrains, skipping diesel entirely.
- Renault Bigster: Following the Duster will be its larger 7-seater sibling, the Bigster, designed to compete with the Tata Safari and Mahindra XUV700.
REPM Scheme: Boosting Renault’s EV Ambitions
A critical part of Renault’s future strategy is electrification. The Government of India recently approved a ₹7,280 crore scheme to promote the manufacturing of Rare Earth Permanent Magnets (REPM), a core component of electric vehicle motors.
Stephane Deblaise, CEO of Renault Group India, welcomed this move, stating:
“The Government’s decision… is a pivotal step in strengthening the nation’s self-reliance aspirations. For the automobile sector, localizing rare earth magnets will boost growth for both auto OEMs and component manufacturers, support clean energy powertrains, reduce import dependence, and enhance long-term competitiveness.”
Why REPM Matters for Renault:
- Cost Reduction: Local manufacturing of magnets will significantly lower the cost of EV motors.
- Supply Chain Security: It reduces reliance on imports (primarily from China) for critical EV components.
- Mass-Market EV: This aligns perfectly with Renault’s plan to launch an affordable, mass-market electric vehicle in India, ensuring high localization levels.
New Leadership for a New Era
To steer this aggressive roadmap, Stéphane Deblaise has taken charge as the CEO of Renault Group in India. His mandate focuses on executing the “Renulution” strategy, driving the new product launches, and maximizing the potential of the now fully-owned Chennai plant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the REPM scheme mentioned by the Renault India CEO? The REPM scheme is a ₹7,280 crore government initiative to promote the domestic manufacturing of Rare Earth Permanent Magnets, which are essential components for electric vehicle motors.
Q2: How does the REPM scheme benefit Renault? It allows for the localization of critical EV components, helping Renault produce its upcoming mass-market electric vehicles more cost-effectively in India.
Q3: When is the new Renault Duster launching in India? The all-new Renault Duster is confirmed for a launch in early 2026.
Q4: What does “100% ownership” of the Chennai plant mean? It means Renault Group has bought out Nissan’s stake in the manufacturing facility, giving them full control over production planning, exports, and future investments.
Q5: Who is the new CEO of Renault Group India? Stéphane Deblaise has been appointed as the new CEO to lead Renault’s transformation and growth strategy in India.
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