Renault Cars Set to Boost India Operations with new Modular Platform

French auto manufacturer Renault Cars has announced two new platforms at its ‘New International Gameplan 2027’ event in Brazil. The automaker says that the platforms will form the basis for new upcoming models in markets outside Europe. All the models will be produced and launched outside Europe by 2027.

Renault’s New Platforms

The brand is yet to name the customisable platform, while the other one is named CMA. The latter one is being jointly developed by Renault and Geely to produce D- and E-segment cars. It is the former that is more interesting in the Indian context, a fully modular platform that will underpin upcoming SUVs.

Bruno Vapel, VP of brand, production performance, described the new platform as “a fully new Renault group modular platform that will be used in four hubs beyond Europe.” The markets would be Latin America, India, Turkey, and Morocco. He added, “It is scalable and flexible and capable of accommodating vehicles with a length between 4-5 metres, with four possible wheelbases from 2.6-3 metres. The platform is also capable of accepting a wide range of powertrains, including ICE [gasoline and diesel], flex-fuel, LPG, 48V hybrid and full-hybrid too. It would also offer two- and four-wheel-drive capability.”

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Renault Kadian: SUV Based On New Platform

The Kardian is the first model to be announced. It’s a stylish compact SUV with split headlights, a twin-slat front grille, muscular bumpers on both ends, flared wheel arches, faux aluminium skid plates, integrated boot lid spoiler, roof rails, and C-shaped tail lights. In terms of size, it is slightly bigger than the Kiger sold here in India.

Inside, the Kardian follows Renault’s current interior design language for SUVs. The layered dashboard gets an 8-inch infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, physical climate controls, and a drive mode selector. Expect other key features like wireless charging, electric sunroof, ambient lighting, ventilated seats, and more.

Powering the Kardian is a new 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that makes 120 bhp with 220 Nm of max torque. It is paired with a CVT automatic gearbox.

Renault New Modular Platform: Will Spawn 4 SUVs

The Kardian is the first of four SUVs that will be underpinned by Renault’s new modular platform. This will be followed by the next-gen Duster, the Bigster, and an electric SUV. With India being a strong market for SUVs, Renault may bring the latter three models to our shores soon after their global launch.