Renault India has taken a major step forward in its “Design in India” journey with the inauguration of the new Renault Design Centre Chennai (RDCC) at its Renault Technology and Business Centre. This 16,145 sq.ft. state-of-the-art facility represents a 1.5 million euro (₹14.6 crore) investment and is now the brand’s second-largest design hub globally, only behind the headquarters in Paris. RDCC is equipped with cutting-edge tech, including VR setups for full 3D modelling, an 8.5×2.4m LED wall for 1:1 scale design displays, and real-time collaboration terminals for seamless integration with Renault’s global design network. The idea is clear: Renault wants India to not only build cars, but design them, from the ground up.
RDCC now consolidates the brand’s earlier design facilities in Pune and Mumbai, marking a fresh, focused start. The studio will contribute significantly to upcoming models both for India (expect unique local cues in the new-gen Duster) and global markets like Europe. In fact, the recent R4 and R5 EVs had key input from Renault’s Chennai team. This opening ties into the broader ‘Renault Rethink’ transformation strategy, which also includes the upcoming launch of five all-new models over the next two years, and revamped R-Store showrooms. With full control of its Tamil Nadu plant post the alliance restructuring, Renault is clearly doubling down on its India plans.
To mark the occasion, Renault unveiled Rethink—a sculpture built entirely at RDCC. It’s SUV-shaped and blends traditional Indian elements with French design language, using screens and bilingual typography to reflect the fusion of digital and heritage. This isn’t just a design centre—it’s Renault signalling that India is now a creative, not just productive, powerhouse in its global strategy.
