Renault Hopes to Hike Market Share in China

Renault SA says a planned upswing in local production should help it boost its market share in China from less than 0.1% to 3.5% over the next several years.

Renault currently makes only one model, the Kadjar small crossover, in China at the factory it operates jointly through the partnership it launched with Dongfeng Group in 2013, says Automotive New Europe.

Production began early this year and has resulted in sales of 11,400 locally assembled units through August, according to ANE. During the same period, Renault imported about 3,000 vehicles, which faced a 25% tariff.

The partners expect to begin selling locally made versions of Renault’s Koleos SUV in China later this year. Francois Provost, president of Dongfeng Renault Automobile Co., says the factory plans to add one or two models and could supplement them with all-electric vehicles.