Renault Launches Design Centre in Chennai as Part of Bold India-Focused Transformation Strategy
Chennai — Renault India has unveiled its new design centre in Chennai, marking a significant milestone in its “renault. rethink” strategy, aimed at redefining its presence in the Indian market. The move is a part of Renault’s broader International Gameplan 2027 and highlights the carmaker’s ambition to go beyond manufacturing and deeply embed design and innovation within India.
The Renault Design Centre Chennai is the brand’s largest design facility outside France and represents a critical step in Renault’s “design in India” vision. The new facility will function as a hub of creativity and collaboration, blending European aesthetics with Indian cultural elements — a design philosophy Renault calls “Tactile Confluence.”
Laurens van den Acker, Chief Design Officer at Renault Group, emphasized the importance of understanding India’s unique market: “Having a dedicated design studio is essential to listen to local needs and build from India’s strengths. This centre will help develop market-specific models while contributing to global projects.”
Spanning 1,500 square metres, the high-tech design space includes advanced features such as immersive VR experiences, a next-generation visualization studio, a massive LED wall for high-impact presentations, and collaborative zones designed for creativity and innovation.
At the heart of the centre’s launch is the unveiling of the renault. rethink sculpture, a futuristic, high-tech art piece that symbolizes Renault’s transformation. Designed by Indian talent, the sculpture’s fragmented surfaces and glowing core reflect emergence, evolution, and the brand’s commitment to innovation. It also offers a glimpse into the future design language Renault plans to introduce in India.
Venkatram Mamillapalle, CEO and MD of Renault India, said, “We are proud to be the most Indian of European carmakers. This design centre reinforces our commitment to localize, innovate, and shape the future of mobility in India.”
The initiative builds on Renault’s deep roots in the country, including its Chennai-based R&D hub with nearly 10,000 engineers, a highly localized supply chain, and a recent move to fully acquire its manufacturing facility. Renault also recently debuted its new ‘R store’ concept in Chennai, further aligning with the new global brand identity.
With Renault’s record 2024 performance globally, including €4.3 billion in operating profit, the company is poised to strengthen its presence in India — the world’s third-largest automobile market.
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