Renault to Assemble Chinese Electric Motors at Cléon from 2027

Renault will assemble Chinese-made electric motors at its Cléon factory starting 2027. This decision targets entry-level models like the Twingo, already equipped with a Shanghai E-drive motor. The goal: produce up to 120,000 units annually while diversifying the Normandy site's activities.

"By turning to China, Renault cut the Twingo's development time to 24 months—a 50% reduction from the usual timeframe" — L'Auto Journal

A bold strategy for affordable electric cars

Renault isn't hiding its strategy. The diamond-branded automaker announced last week to its worker representatives its plan to assemble French-made electric motors sourced from China. These powertrains will equip its entry-level models, particularly the Twingo E-Tech launched in 2024.

This decision follows a proven playbook. The new Twingo, developed in just 24 months thanks to Shanghai's "ACDC" R&D center, already imports its motors from Shanghai E-drive. A winning bet that cut development timelines in half compared to usual schedules.

Up to 120,000 motors yearly at Cléon

The Cléon Normandy factory could host a new production line dedicated to these Chinese motors. According to industry sources, the target capacity would reach 120,000 units annually starting 2027.

This ramp-up responds to growing demand. The electric Twingo, starting at €19,490, delivers 265 km WLTP range and a far richer standard equipment list than its predecessors. A positioning that beats the previous generation EV launched at €21,350 for just 190 km of range.

Which models get these Chinese motors?

Renault remains tight-lipped about which exact models will receive these Cléon-assembled motors. While the Twingo seems obvious, the R5 electric, launched in September 2024, currently uses a motor built in-house by Renault.

The stated objective targets "entry-level electric models." A strategy that could expand to other group city cars, as cost pressure intensifies to democratize EV ownership.

Diversify or bust

This Sino-French partnership comes alongside other projects to sustain Cléon's operations. The Normandy site is also developing military drone manufacturing under France's defense ministry.

Necessary diversification as Europe's auto industry faces Chinese competition. Asian builders master production costs and development timelines better, forcing European counterparts to rethink their methods.

A trend beyond Renault

Other brands are following suit. Mini assembles its Cooper and Aceman EVs directly in China using local components. Leapmotor, a Chinese brand, performs only final T03 assembly in Europe.

This reality raises questions about the future of automotive "made in France." But it also reflects pragmatic adaptation to new EV market realities, where speed and price competitiveness trump component geography.

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