The Renault-Nissan alliance plant in Oragadam near Chennai has manufactured its one millionth vehicle. The landmark car, a Nissan Micra, rolled off the assembly line a little after noon today.
The plant, which is the largest alliance production facility in the world, started operation in March 2010 following a Rs 4,500-crore initial investment. A further Rs 1,600 crore has also been invested to increase its capability with a powertrain manufacturing facility and tooling.
The plant has introduced 32 new Renault, Nissan, and Datsun models and derivatives to its production line and caters to both the domestic and international markets. It has developed into India's second largest car exporter with more than 600,000 units shipped to 106 countries since 2010.
It is complemented by a major R&D centre, also in Chennai, which plays a huge role in model development in India, ensuring products are locally relevant.
From an initial 75,000 units in FY 2010, production volume has risen to over 200,000 by the end of CY 2015, Renault Nissan said in a statement. The most recent model to be made at the plant is the Renault Kwid, which was launched in September last year. This will be followed in 2016 by the third Datsun-branded vehicle to be sold in India.
Christian Mardrus, Chairman of Nissan's Africa, Middle East and India region, and former Alliance Executive Vice-President, said: "Our Chennai facility has and will continue to play a fundamental role in the development of our business in India. Today's milestone reflects the popularity of Nissan and Renault products in India and export markets, as well as the skill and dedication of our staff. It is also a measure of the support we have enjoyed from the Tamil Nadu government."
Colin MacDonald, plant Managing Director of Renault Nissan Alliance India Private Ltd (RNAIPL), added, "This is a proud day for everyone associated with the plant. On average we have launched two new models each year across three brands since 2010.”