2007 Interactive Registration Document - Renault

02 RESEARCH
MANAGEMENT REPORT
AND DEVELOPMENT
2.1.5 OUTLOOK
In a less favorable macroeconomic environment in 2008, Renault can count on
the impact from the launch of nine new products globally and on its expansion
into the most dynamic and growing markets for auto sales in the world.
Renault therefore confi rms its target of 4.5% operating margin for the year and
an increase of more than 10% in Group sales compared to 2007.
2.2 RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
2.2.1 INTRODUCTION
The Automobile activity invests heavily in research and development to renew
and broaden the range and provide the high standards of service expected
by customers.
Research and Development expenditure *
At the Annual General Meeting of shareholders, Renault will propose a dividend
payment of €3.80 per share in 2008 on 2007 earnings, compared with a
payment of €3.10 in 2007 on 2006 earnings. That proposal is in line with the
announcement of steadily increasing dividends under Renault Commitment
2009.
R&D spending also addresses the challenges facing the automotive industry,
notably with regard to the road safety and environmental issues to which Renault
is deeply committed.
UNDER IFRS 2007 2006** 2005 2004
R&D expenditure (€ million) 2,462 2,400 2,264 1,961
Group revenues (€ million) 40,682 39,969 41,338 40,292
R&D spend ratio 6.1% 6.0% 5.50% 4.90%
R&D headcount, Renault group 16,219 15,658 12,939 12,352
Renault group patents 998 933 895 765
* All R&D expenditure is incurred by Automobile.
** 2007 scope
2.2.2 R&D AND RENAULT COMMITMENT 2009
R&D activities can be broken down into two main categories:
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research, which involves preparing and introducing innovative features for
new vehicles;
design, development and manufacture, which involves producing vehicles
and powertrain subsystems in accordance with quality, cost and delivery
time criteria.
Renault pursues its innovation policy in two ways:
developing innovations that deliver clear added value for customers;
developing innovations that can be used extensively across the vehicle
range.
62 Registration Document Renault 2007
Find out more at www.renault.com
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