Renault's Grand Plan for Electric Cars - A Work in Progress

Carlos Ghosn, CEO of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, rocked the automotive world in September 2009 when he revealed Renault’s bold plan for electric cars at the Frankfurt Motor Show. He didn’t simply unveil a single new EV concept model: He announced four. “Renault is the only carmaker developing a complete range of electric vehicles that will be manufactured in high volumes and at affordable prices,” said Aline Henry, Renault’s manager of media relations for the environment and sustainable mobility. Yet the most radical innovations in the Renault plan are only now beginning to be tested in the marketplace.

Like their electric vehicle portfolio, Renault’s approach has four major components. The first is to produce a portfolio of cars that span multiple market segments. The second is to lease the battery for the life of the car. The third is partnering with Better Place to use their battery swapping technology. The last is covering their large retail region with a two-tiered retail and service program. Their grand plan remains a work in progress.