Renault Hires a New Distributor in Indonesia

Renault SA plans to expand its model lineup in Indonesia and has hired a new distributor to generate consumer interest in them.

Jakarta-based Nusantara Maxindo Group will replace Indomobil in the market, effective Feb. 24, The Jakarta Post reports.

Renault’s Indonesian operations currently market the company’s Duster small crossover, Koleos midsize crossover, Kwid entry-level crossover and Megane small five-door hatchback.

The newspaper says Renault vehicles are perceived in Indonesia as costly to own and maintain. Last year the brand accounted for fewer than 300 of the 1.15 million passenger vehicles delivered in Indonesia.

Japanese brands—led by Toyota, Daihatsu, Honda, Mitsubishi and Suzuki—control more than 80% of the Indonesian market. Maxindo CEO Andrew Limbert tells reporters that Renault hopes to revive its brand with a broader array of models, including the debut of a low-priced 7-seat MPV, and a marketing campaign that touts special technologies offered in its cars.