The French auto giant has huge plans for India, not just for domestic consumption, but for its various global initiatives as well
Renault India has taken a major step forward with the launch of its new design centre in Chennai. This opening marks the beginning of the company’s transformation strategy, branded as ‘renault. rethink’. With this, Renault aims to deepen its focus on India by shifting from a “Make in India” approach to also “Design in India”. The facility will support local design and innovation, reflecting Renault’s efforts to tailor its offerings more specifically for Indian consumers.
Renault Opens New Design Centre in India
The Chennai design centre is positioned close to Renault Nissan Technology & Business Centre India (RNTBCI), enabling seamless collaboration. This proximity is expected to speed up the integration of design into engineering processes. Renault believes that having a dedicated design studio in India is essential to understand local preferences and challenges. The centre will work on India-specific projects, while also contributing to global programs. According to Laurens van den Acker, Chief Design Officer of Renault Group, this is a strategic move to bring Indian insights to the forefront of Renault’s design efforts.
The launch of the design centre is part of a larger transformation plan that Renault is rolling out in India. The company sees 2025 as a turning point and is working toward redefining its brand and operations in one of the world’s largest automotive markets. As part of its broader goals, Renault is investing in localization, with up to 90% of components sourced locally. Renault has also announced a project to take full ownership of its existing manufacturing plant in Chennai. These efforts align with the Renault International Game Plan 2027, aimed at enhancing competitiveness and sustainability in key markets.
The facility itself is designed to foster creativity and innovation. Spread over 1,500 m², it includes features like high-resolution virtual reality setups, an immersive 3D exhibition space, and a creative collaboration zone. A key visual element of the launch is the renault. rethink sculpture, created by Indian designers. It reflects the themes of emergence, transformation, and Renault’s evolving identity in India. The sculpture’s fragmented surfaces and central light element symbolize ongoing innovation and the company’s readiness to adapt and grow with the Indian market. With this design centre, Renault reaffirms its commitment to India, not just as a manufacturing hub but as a centre for innovation and design leadership.
On this occasion, Venkatram Mamillapalle, Country CEO and Managing Director, Renault India Operations, remarked, “The launch of the ‘renault. rethink’ strategy heralds a new era for Renault in India. We are proud to be the most Indian of European carmakers, boasting the largest R&D centre, manufacturing unit, highly localized supply chain, and now one of the largest design centres. The opening of new design centre in Chennai will play a crucial role in the deployment of the Renault International Game Plan 2027. Our commitment is to redefine our brand, product positioning, and customer experience to meet the evolving needs of our customers in the country, hence we recently witnessed the global debut of new ‘R store’ in Chennai, India.”
Also Read: Nissan’s Upcoming Hyundai Creta-Rival To Use New Renault Duster’s Platform
