The Renault group is successfully pursuing its international offensive. In 2012, the Group set a new record outside Europe with 1,279,598 vehicles sold (+9.1%). For the first time in its history, the Group generated more than half of its sales outside Europe. However, this international success did not offset an 18% fall in sales in Europe. Overall, with 2,550,286 vehicles sold worldwide, Group sales were down 6.3% on 2011.
The highlights of 2012 include:
• In international regions: the Group set new records in sales and market share in two regions, the Americas and Eurasia. Brazil and Russia are now the Group’s second and third biggest markets respectively.
• In Europe: against a backdrop of market crisis (-8.6%), and efforts to defend margins and restructure the sales offering in the UK, the Group had market share of 9.1% (-1 point) and sales of 1,270,688 vehicles, down 18%.
• Renault expanded its electric range in 2012, with Twizy, which has topped sales of 9,000 units since launch. With Fluence Z.E. and Kangoo Z.E., Renault is No. 1 on the electric vehicle market in Europe with market share of 28%.
• Launched in fourth-quarter 2012 in Europe and Turkey, New Clio is a success with its audience.
• In the LCV market, the Renault brand increased its market share in international regions and in Europe, maintaining its leadership for the 15th consecutive year, with market share of 15.5%.
“The Group’s international expansion strategy is bringing results. In 2012, we set a new international sales record with the Renault and Dacia brands. Nevertheless, this success could not totally make up for falling sales in Europe. In market conditions that were tougher than expected, we sought primarily to defend our margins,” said Jérôme Stoll, Member of the Executive Committee, Executive Vice-President, Sales and Marketing & Light Commercial Vehicles.
In 2012, Renault stepped up the pace in India. The Renault range now comprises five products with the Pulse, Duster and Scala joining the range after the Fluence and Koleos. The Duster SUV, which was launched in July 2012, has sold over 24,000 units, helping Renault India notch a share of 5.97 percent in the UV market. India is the third key component in the Renault Group’s international strategy, alongside Russia and Brazil. The Group had a market share of 1.1 percent in India.