Renault-Nissan plant in Chennai reaches 1 million production mark

A Micra became the 1 millionth car to roll off the production line at Renault-Nissan’s manufacturing facility in Chennai.

The Renault-Nissan Alliance’s manufacturing plant in Oragadam, Chennai has reached the 1 million production milestone, it has been announced.

The 1 millionth car, a Nissan Micra, was rolled out at 12:15 on Friday, January 8.

The facility began production in 2010 following a INR 45 billion investment by two companies who have collaborated on a global level for mutual benefits. Since then, a further INR 16 billion has been invested to increase capacity.

In terms of growth, annual production volume has risen from 75,000 units in FY 2010 to 2,00,000 units in CY 2015.

In all, 32 cars across Nissan, Renault and Datsun brands have been produced, with Kwid being the most recent one to enter the production line. The new Datsun model, set to debut at the Auto Expo in February, will also be produced in the same factory.

Out of the 1 million cars manufactured, over 600,000 cars have been exported to 106 countries since the plant became operational six years ago.

Colin MacDonald, plant Managing Director of Renault Nissan Alliance India Private Ltd (RNAIPL), commented: "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.”

"The workforce and our supplier partners deserve enormous credit for achieving this while increasing annual production volume and maintaining world class quality levels."   

The Chennai manufacturing facility is complimented by an R&D centre in the same region. Together, they account for 12,000 direct jobs in Tamil Nadu and a further 40,000 in the Indian supplier chain.

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