The year 2011 is a landmark year for Renault South Africa and the Renault Mégane. Renault returned to the South African market in 1996 via a partnership with Imperial Holdings' Imperial Car Imports division.
Later that same year, it was the launch of the boldly designed Renault Mégane with its unforgettable rear-end that re-kindled the Renault passion within an expectant South African market. The Renault Clio went on to scoop South Africa’s Car of the Year title in 2000 with the Renault Mégane claiming the same title just four years later.
“In many ways, the Mégane was the perfect model to have lead the charge back into South African motorists’ hearts and minds,” says Xavier Gobille, Renault South Africa’s Managing Director. “And Mégane still plays a pivotal role within the Renault range today.”
Renault’s commitment to South Africa was further strengthened in 2002 when they became the major shareholder in a joint venture with Imperial Holdings to establish Renault South Africa (with Renault holding 51% and Imperial Holdings 49%).
“Renault is performing extremely well and has experienced a marked increase in sales volumes as a result of some great new product launches enabling the brand to break into and compete competitively in new segments. Imperial has a solid business relationship with Renault South Africa and we look forward to even more successful years ahead,” says Manny de Canha, Chief Executive of Associated Motor Holdings, who has been with the Imperial group since 1996 and was instrumental in Renault’s return to the country.
Renault’s reputation as one of the safest vehicle ranges available has fuelled sales across the growing range. Most segments of the passenger car market are catered for, with the volume-selling locally manufactured Sandero and Logan having sold 7 000 units since their introduction. These models are complemented by the internationally acclaimed Twingo, Clio, Mégane, Fluence, Laguna, Scénic and Koleos passenger car model ranges.
“We are totally committed to Renault’s success in South Africa, we’ve launched 16 exciting new cars locally in the last two years alone,” adds Gobille. “South Africa plays a significant role in Renault Global’s plan for sustainable growth and new product development. Our investment in local South African production is significant and just a part of our long term commitment to this country. We look to the next 15 years with justified optimism.”
“In 2010, we grew total sales by 45.5% and sold over 10 000 cars, moving from 11th to 9th in market rankings. We are clearly bringing superbly equipped, safe and well-priced cars to market that are fulfilling consumers’ needs.”
“In this milestone 15th year marking our return to South Africa, we continue to show the depth of Renault’s product range by launching a diverse number of new models and entering new segments. Renault South Africa is set to grow from strength to strength.”
STORY BY RENAULT
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