Renault reshapes strategy, partnerships and EV plans

Renault has reorganized senior product and strategy oversight by naming Ampere CEO Josep Maria Recasens to lead strategy, product and program management while he retains his Ampere and Iberia roles, a move intended to accelerate decision‑making.
The company is in exploratory talks with Nissan to revive alliance cooperation and is pursuing partnerships with other automakers, notably Chinese groups such as Chery, to improve factory utilization and joint manufacturing after a Brazil deal with Geely.
On technology, Renault is testing a multienergy approach for its next compact/midsize EV platform — including plug‑in hybrid and range‑extender options — to hedge against volatile demand and regulatory shifts in Europe. Renault also plans a retro‑styled Twingo EV priced under €20,000 with a two‑year target to market.
Supply‑chain choices are shifting: Renault halted a Valeo program for a rare‑earth‑free motor and is seeking lower‑cost suppliers in China, reflecting cost pressures and material‑sourcing tradeoffs. CEO François Provost has urged a regulatory pause on new small‑EV rules so engineers can prioritize an affordable, clean European EV while the group sharpens speed and quality to rival BYD and Toyota.
Former CEO Louis Schweitzer, architect of the Nissan alliance, was remembered following his death.