We reported earlier that Renault-Nissan Alliance is all set to make a new investment of around 4000 crore (USD 500 million). The new investment will go in upgrading the production unit to manufacture future products including new-gen Duster, new Nissan MPV, electric car and a new Nissan SUV. The company is also investing in the new CMF-B modular platform, which will be used to produce the next-gen Duster.
Similar to the new Duster, Renault is also developing a new SUV for the Indian market. The new Renault midsize SUV will be designed and developed on the new CMF-B modular platform. The new Renault Duster is scheduled to be launched sometime in 2024-25. Nissan’s version is expected to arrive after the introduction of the 3rd gen Duster SUV.
The new CMF-B modular platform is compatible to accommodate different body styles and engine options including petrol, strong hybrid and PHEV. The CMF-B has an electric derivative called the CMF-B EV architecture and this will allow the Renault-Nissan alliance to produce electric vehicles locally in future. This platform will be future-proof and will be compliant with existing and upcoming safety norms.
A new 7-seater SUV based on the new Duster is also in the works. It will share the styling cues from the Dacia Bigster concept, which will be launched sometime in 2025. Similarly, Nissan’s version of the SUV could be offered with 5 and 7-seat options.
The new Nissan SUV will be positioned against the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Kia Seltos, MG Astor, VW Taigun & the Skoda Kushaq. The 7-seater version will rival the Tata Safari and the Mahindra XUV700. It is likely to be offered with a 1.2L turbo petrol engine boosted with a 48V hybrid tech. Its combined power output will be around 130bhp. The SUV will also come with the AWD (all-wheel drive) system along with the high ground clearance and improved approach & departure angles.
