Renault unveils EV improvements at 2026 World Auto Show

At the 2026 World Auto Show, Renault introduced updates to its electric vehicle lineup, including the Renault 5 and Renault 4. The Twingo now features a glass roof, and the company emphasized that electric vehicle development has led to a strategy of ongoing improvements based on real-world data.

Data-driven EV improvements

Renault collects data on how customers use its vehicles, such as the distance driven, type of trips, and how often they recharge. This information helps the company make faster adjustments to features like battery performance, connectivity, and customer offers. The Twingo's glass roof is one example of how this data is being used to enhance existing models.

Focus on utility vehicles in Europe

In Europe, Renault plans to focus on utility vehicles in 2027, introducing the Trafic E-Tech and two new models. The renewal of the Scenic and Rafale models will be delayed until 2028, as the company shifts its attention to more practical vehicle types for the market.

Electric vehicle sales and profitability

Renault has received many electric vehicle orders to be delivered soon. In France, 40.3% of the brand’s new vehicles are electric, compared to 31.4% globally. While the profitability of electric models is approaching that of traditional combustion engines, new electric vehicles still have slightly lower margins, by 2 to 3%.

Dacia's impact on Renault's sales

The disappointing performance of Dacia, a Renault subsidiary, has affected the company’s order portfolio. Sales and billing have been impacted, but the launch of the new Spring, produced in Europe, and the Striker, now open for orders, is expected to help restore the order books.

Renault's dealer network profitability

Fabrice Cambolive, Renault’s director of growth, evaluates the profitability of the dealer network using the "half-net" margin, which includes new and used vehicles, after-sales services, and other related activities. This metric has improved significantly over the past four years, helping dealers perform better.

Market share and pricing strategy

Renault has increased its market share in France to between 16 and 17%, up from 12% four years ago. This growth, along with higher average vehicle prices, has supported dealer performance. However, the used vehicle segment has seen a decline in profitability due to a more challenging market environment.

Renault's sales policy and used vehicle strategy

To support the dealer network, Renault plans to maintain its sales policy, which includes limiting short-term rentals and controlling vehicle residual values. Promotions will focus on monthly rentals. Cambolive highlights the importance of ensuring that used vehicles remain profitable and that the resale conditions for new vehicles are not compromised.

Expansion policy and customer retention

Renault urges its network to review its expansion policy and focus on brands that offer the best profitability. Retaining customers through multiple vehicle life cycles is also a key strategy. The return of a leased car after three to four years allows dealers to continue their business with the same customer, extending the vehicle’s life cycle.

Renault's digital initiatives

Renault is developing the My Renault application to improve communication between customers, dealers, and the manufacturer. A pilot program in the Netherlands allows real-time data sharing on vehicle use, reducing fixed costs and improving customer loyalty.