The Renault logo is visible on the new Renault 5 E-Tech electric car
by Gilles Guillaume
Renault confirmed on Monday that it was in preliminary discussions with Volkswagen to share the architecture of the future Twingo and also said it was ready to welcome other partners in its joint venture dedicated to thermal engines.
“We are discussing, seeing what happens,” declared the general director of the French car manufacturer, Luca De Meo, during a press conference at the Geneva Motor Show, in response to a question on the prospect of a partnership with VW on the next electric Twingo.
He clarified that the discussions, which sources echoed in late 2023, were at an early stage, and added: “I am open to everyone who wants to use this platform.”
Asked about discussions with Renault, Volkswagen declined to comment. “We are currently evaluating different options to offer affordable electric mobility, including possible cooperation,” a spokesperson said.
Faithful to its strategy of all-out partnerships, the diamond group is also ready to welcome other companies within the scope of its Horse-Geely JV in thermal engines, for which it hopes to obtain all the regulatory green lights in the next weeks.
“I am ready, we will have to talk about it with our colleagues at Geely, to welcome other players within the scope of Horse, in particular people who could allow us to build a complete engine without needing anyone,” continued Luca by Meo.
He raised the possibility of one or more equipment manufacturers joining the project, particularly for components where suppliers are rare, in order to maintain sufficient room for maneuver throughout the entire manufacturing chain.
(Report by Gilles Guillaume, with Christina Amann in Berlin, written by Bertrand Boucey, edited by Sophie Louet and Blandine Hénault)