Renault starts manufacturing Fluence sedan in Malaysia

The Renault Group has begun production of the Fluence sedan in Malaysia. Yesterday, Gilles Normand, chairman of the Asia-Pacific Region for the Renault Group, and Dato Tan Heng Chew, executive deputy chairman and Group managing director of Tan Chong Motors Holdings Berhad, signed an agreement to build the sedan in Malaysia.

Renault, which aims to be among the top 3 European carmakers in Malaysia by 2018, says the launch of the Fluence is the first stage in its drive to step up the pace of growth in Malaysia, where three-box sedans are popular. Other launches are planned in the future for vehicles meeting the core requirements of the local market.

The new agreement will enable Renault to build its presence not only in Malaysia but also across the promising region of South-East Asia, which offers real opportunities for growth. Malaysia is the third biggest regional economy after Thailand and Indonesia, with growth running at over 5 percent on average over the past 30 years and living standards that are among the highest in South-East Asia. In 2013, the automotive market expanded by more than 5 percent, with sales of 645,000 vehicles.

To support this growth, Renault is increasing the size of its network and plans to have 25 dealers by 2016. The French carmaker started its Malaysian innings with Tan Chong Motors, its local partner since 2003, with sports models such as Mégane RS, sold there since 2010, and the Clio RS, unveiled at the Malaysia Grand Prix. The Koleos SUV is also available. Renault has benefited from the expertise and good quality of service of Tan Chong Motors, its partner since 2003.