French automaker Renault has inaugurated its largest design centre outside France in Chennai as part of its 'renault.rethink' transformation strategy for the Indian market. Spanning 1,500 square metres, the facility aims to strengthen Renault’s localisation efforts and deepen its understanding of Indian consumer preferences.

Equipped with advanced tools such as virtual reality systems and a high-performance LED wall, the centre will contribute to global projects while focusing on India-specific models. The move reflects Renault's intent to embed local design and cultural insights into its future mobility solutions.

“Having a dedicated design studio is essential to understanding India’s nuances,” said Laurens van den Acker, Chief Design Officer, Renault Group. The facility also unveiled a conceptual sculpture titled 'renault.rethink', previewing the company’s future design direction in India.

Renault's Chennai expansion follows its decision to fully acquire the alliance’s manufacturing plant RNAIPL and overhaul its dealership network to align with global standards. CEO Venkatram Mamillapalle highlighted Renault’s localisation, including a 90 per cent local supply chain and nearly 10,000 engineers in Chennai working on local and global R&D.

Source: Renault India Corporate Communication