Renault intends to focus on an extremely recent and updated range. Words from Sebastian Guigues, CEO of the Italian division of the Diamond brand, who spoke to Ansa about the brand’s strategy in Italy and beyond. “Today the oldest model is Austral, which is four years old,” he recalled. Reiterating that there is no single path to follow to achieve the decarbonization of the range: “Electric is the destination, but hybrid is an efficient, accessible transition technology that is already highly appreciated by customers.”ù
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For Renault, electric is the destination
A clear example of this dual branching of the product offensive is Italy itself. In fact, in our country, about 60% of Renault sales are represented by hybrid engines. And the model that makes the most impact is Clio, which Guigues defines as a “brand within a brand” rather than just a car. “Clio is an institution in the compact segment: it has been able to renew itself generation after generation, today offering technological content from a higher segment at an accessible price,” he explained.
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More value, fewer volumes
As for profitability, Renault intends to focus more on value and not on volumes. “It is not a foregone conclusion in our sector – Guigues said – Today we present one of the best results in Europe, with an operating margin of around 6.5%”. Final remark on the electric future of the sector: “The destination is defined, but we need to talk more about the paths and ways to get there. Not everyone can switch to electric immediately for reasons of cost and infrastructure. We must ensure that everyone plays by the same rules. The European auto industry is strong, it has history, technology, and design capability. The transition is necessary, but it must be accompanied by protecting the value and savoir-faire that represent a heritage for the entire continent.”
