Renault began manufacturing cars in **1898**. The company was established by brothers Louis, Marcel, and Fernand Renault. Their first car, the "Voiturette," was a success and received twelve orders in the same year.
Historical Overview of Renault Car Manufacture1898: Renault was founded by brothers Louis, Marcel, and Fernand Renault. Their first car, the “Voiturette,” was a success, receiving twelve orders in the same year. 1905: Renault made its first major sale when Société des Automobiles placed an order for Renault AG cars to create a fleet of taxis. World War I: Renault played a significant role, most notably through its “Taxis de la Marne,” which transported soldiers to the front lines. 1924: The diamond-shaped logo was introduced, which has become a defining feature of Renault vehicles. 1945: After World War II, Renault was nationalized and became the Régie Nationale des Usines Renault (RNUR), wholly owned by the French State. 1990: Renault changed its status to a public limited company with State capital. 1996: Renault was privatized, marking a significant shift in its operations. Present Day: Renault is a global automobile manufacturer, producing a range of cars and commercial vehicles. It is part of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance and has various subsidiaries and joint ventures worldwide. |
POPULAR MODELS BY DECADE |
1950-59 The most popular Renault model built between 1950 and 1959 was the Renault 4CV. This small, economical car was introduced in 1947 and continued to be a best-seller throughout the 1950s. It was particularly notable for its rear-engine design and affordability, making it a popular choice in post-war France. |
1960-69 The most popular Renault model built between 1960 and 1969 was the Renault 4. Introduced in 1961, the Renault 4 (often referred to as the R4) quickly became a best-seller due to its practicality, affordability, and innovative design. It was Renault’s first front-wheel-drive passenger car and remained in production for over 30 years. |
1970-79 The most popular Renault model built between 1970 and 1979 was the Renault 5. Introduced in 1972, the Renault 5 quickly became an iconic car of the 1970s due to its compact size, charming design, and fuel efficiency. It was initially launched as a three-door model and later offered as a five-door variant. With over 10 million units sold, the Renault 5 remains one of the best-selling Renault cars of all time. |
1980-89 The most popular Renault model built between 1980 and 1989 was the Renault 5. This compact hatchback, initially launched in 1972, continued to be a best-seller throughout the 1980s due to its charming design and fuel efficiency. The Renault 5 GT Turbo version, introduced in 1985, added a turbocharger that increased its power, making it one of the fastest superminis of its time. |
1990-99 The most popular Renault model built between 1990 and 1999 was the Renault Clio. Introduced in 1990, the Clio quickly became a best-seller due to its attractive design, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It was a significant hit in Europe and has remained a staple in the Renault lineup ever since. |