2007 Interactive Registration Document - Renault

2.2.3 2007 R&D HIGHLIGHTS
2.2.3.1 A MATURE TECHNOLOGY PLAN
In 2007 Renault brought its [T] (Square T) technology plan to maturity:
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it consolidated the cross-functionality of R&D across engineering
departments;
it is recognized as a shared priority by engineering departments;
the link with the product plan has been reinforced;
synergies have been developed with suppliers (through co-innovation
contracts) and with Nissan;
12 projects – vehicles and powertrain components – from the 2006
technology plan have been transferred to development;
a “demonstrator” plan was drafted to test innovations in life-sized conditions.
One of the fi rst results is Logan “Renault eco²” Concept, which made a strong
showing at the Michelin Challenge Bibendum.
2.2.3.2 A YEAR OF REVELATIONS
Renault’s R&D projects culminate in the launch of new products, ranging from
complete vehicles to powertrain subsystems.
The year 2007 marked a key stage in the product offensive of Renault
Commitment 2009, with a number of revelations: Logan MCV, Logan Van,
New Twingo, New Laguna and Laguna Estate, New Kangoo, Sandero, Logan
Pick-up, Clio Estate and Grand Modus.
2.2.4 R&D FOR MORE COMPETITIVE ENGINEERING
2.2.4.1 KEY EQUIPMENT
Renault continued its key equipment policy (catapult and CEM unit opened in
2006) with, in particular, the opening in 2007 of a new anti-corrosion approval
unit at the Aubevoye Technical Center. Renault set this unit up to keep pace
with the expansion of its range plan and to provide all customers with superior
anticorrosion protection. With 2,800 m² of buildings, 18 enclosures and
600 meters of dedicated tracks, the anticorrosion unit is sized to organize
the approval of powertrain parts, passenger vehicles and LCVs for the Renault
group. It is also compatible with Nissan test procedures.
As part of the Alliance with Nissan, the Group decided to give Renault a
new stamping unit to satisfy the growing tooling needs created by Renault
Commitment 2009. The new entity, Renault Tooling, is located in Romania.
It brings the Group the capacity to produce stamping tools in-house.
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RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
New Laguna applies the results of R&D studies in a number of areas, including
weight control, since it is the fi rst vehicle to be lighter than its predecessor
(by 15 kg), while bringing users a wider range of features. The excellent acoustics
are another noteworthy point, since New Laguna has been homologated at
71 db. The sound interfaces of Laguna were also designed to combine safety
and onboard comfort.
The new 4WD Active Drive system was fi rst unveiled on Laguna coupé Concept.
This technology, developed jointly by Renault and Renault Sport Technologies,
makes for easier handling while improving performance and steering.
The V9X concept engine, presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show, is a new V6
diesel developed as part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Among other aims,
it is designed to become the new benchmark in acoustic performance.
At the Michelin Challenge Bibendum, Renault presented Logan “Renault eco²”
Concept, which shows that it is possible to combine ecology and economy while
maintaining performance and function.
At the conferences organized by the Automotive Circle International in Germany,
Laguna took second prize in Eurocarbody 2007 for painted body quality, behind
the Fiat 500 and ahead of the Mercedes C-Class. After a fi rst place for Modus
and a third place for Scénic II, this is the third time that Renault has won a
Eurocarbody award. ✦
2.2.4.2 RESEARCH PARTNERSHIPS
In 2007 Renault took part in 104 cooperative research programs subsidized
by France or the European Union. All the programs make it possible to share
research costs and take inventiveness to new heights.
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Registration Document Renault 2007 65