Renault is ramping up production at its Douai plant in northern France, reverting to a 3×8 schedule and hiring nearly 350 temporary workers to bolster its night shift team. This increase in output is expected to allow the ElectriCity site to aim for up to 1,400 vehicles assembled per day and reduce delivery delays. The Douai plant, a key industrial hub for Renault for decades, is regaining a production pace it hasn’t seen in a long time. The move follows earlier steps, including hiring 550 temporary workers since October 2025 and plans for a production boost starting in September, which are now being implemented. The stated goal is up to 1,400 vehicles per day, with a threshold of around 1,200 units. If demand remains strong, the number could rise to 1,300 or 1,400, according to Fabien Gloaguen, a union delegate from FO, cited by Europe 1. This increase is also aimed at shortening delivery times. Some configurations of the Renault 5 electric still have several months of waiting time. The electric R5 has been a key driver of this situation, with nearly 27,000 registrations in France over the first eight months of 2026. It was the second most sold 100% electric model in the country during that period, behind the Tesla Model Y. The acceleration is part of Renault’s broader ElectriCity initiative, which includes the Douai, Maubeuge, and Ruitz sites. Renault claims 700 permanent jobs were created in this area between 2022 and 2025, with an additional 300 hires planned by 2027. The company has also surpassed the milestone of one million electric vehicles produced in France since 2010. The Douai plant is set to eventually host Ford productions as well. While the European automotive industry faces challenges, including competition from electric vehicles produced in China, Renault is experiencing strong success with its electric models. The Renault 5 E-Tech, in particular, remains one of the best-selling electric cars in France. This success has pushed the company to increase production. The electric city car has already reached nearly 27,000 units registered in France over the first eight months of 2026, making it the second best-selling zero-emission car in the country during that period. However, the high demand has led to significant delivery delays, with some configurations requiring several months of waiting. The R5 has recently undergone changes, with Renault unveiling its 2026 range at the end of August. The new range will be displayed at the Paris Motor Show, from October 12 to 18.