The French state is speaking out after a rumored takeover of Renault by Peugeot and Citroen
A merger between Renault and the Stallantis group (which owns Peugeot, Citroen and Fiat, among others)? This will not happen according to the French state (a Renault shareholder), which retains faith in the manufacturer due to its numerous partnerships.
We didn’t tell you about it until this morning: the crazy rumor of a merger between Renault and the sprawling Stellartis group (home to 14 different automobile brands, including Peugeot, Citroën, Fiat, Opel, Jeep, DS and Maserati), was announced by an Italian newspaper.
A rumor that’s surprising (and maybe a little worrisome)… but which clearly won’t happen, according to Automotive News Europewhich cites a source close to the French economy ministry.
A short summary
To make it short, the Italian daily Il Messaggero A few days ago the French government announced a study of a massive merger between two national automobile groups, Renault and Stellartis, with the aim of becoming more competitive in the electric car sector – an environment that would have to counter China’s surge. side (mainly powered by BYD) and Tesla on the other.
A rumor that could raise a certain number of questions regarding the maintenance of factories and payrolls in Europe, and which was quickly denied by the president of Stellantis. The French state, which owns 15% of Renault shares (making it the brand’s largest shareholder) and 6.1% of Stellantis shares, in turn contradicts this information.
Trust in Renault
Far from wanting a merger, the government has full confidence in Renault – particularly in its partnership strategy.
The French brand is known for its association with Nissan (and recently Mitsubishi), but its famous action plan, called “Revolution”, has opened the door for many other players: let us quote Google (such as the latest model, such as the Megane E-Tech or Scénic E-Tech has Android Automotive) or even Qualcomm.
Renault also created the “Ampère” division at the end of 2023, fully dedicated to the development of its electric range, also with strong connotations. Software. Ambition: To build a successful and affordable electric car, at least at the thermal equivalent level. The future electric Twingo, expected to cost 20,000 euros in 2026, is a good example.
In short, a simple rumor that should have no future, but which clearly shows that nothing is ever established in the small world of the automobile.
