Renault goes sport crazy

Renault believes it can score strongly with the new generation of cars it is producing in the style of Mercedes AMG and BMW M in Europe and Australia's HSV and FPV.

Renault sport Technologies is gearing up to more than triple production in coming years, following the success of limited-edition models including the Megane turbo cars which have been a big hit in Australia.

It already has go-faster Clio and Megane models and is planning to expand the range with RS models based on other cars in the Renault family, including the baby Twingo and the upcoming four-wheel drive known at present as Koleos.

The overseas sales chief of Renault sport, Jean Calcat, has just visited Australia and can see strong potential for his company's cars.

“One of the objectives of the Renault sport business unit is, within five years, we want to move from 15,000 units to 50,000. That is a three-fold increase, which is by no means easy,” Calcat says.

“Renault sport is a brand, but it is practically unknown. The idea is to improve the brand the way Mercedes has with AMG.

“In Australia we are only marketing the Megane, so I personally do have a lot of hope in this country and this country's customers.”

One of the first opportunities is with the compact Clio, which was dropped by Renault Australia but is being considered for a comeback in 2008.

A Renault sport model might make the difference.

“Right now we are studying with Renault Australia a Clio RS,” Calcat says. “We can sell this car with a bigger profit than the regular range.

“An enthusiast will pay for his toys and at the same time there is less competition.

“We have named the special edition Clio the R27, following the Megane R26 with a link to the Renault team in Formula One. It is a car which is not yet in the Australian market.

“I understand it may come in the future. I am pushing a lot.

“The management of Renault Australia is quite excited about the project. But they want first to ensure the successful launch of the R26.”

Beyond the Megane and Clio, Calcat says there are significant expansion plans including a full range of Renault sport GT cars to sit below the existing RS models.

“One of the things we want to do is position the RS as the exclusive cars they are today, and then launch a GT label. “For us, it will be in order to bridge the gap between the exclusive RS and the, should I say it, more mundane models.

“The idea is really to develop the sale of RS derivatives. This kind of car helps us boost our awareness and image where there is not a high profit.

“The main objective is to develop a range of cars that appeal to enthusiasts and create a link between motorsport success and mainstream cars.”