As the automotive industry slowly picks up from the huge fall the coronavirus brought to an already shaken market, many companies are opening certain showrooms and resuming production, the latest of which is Renault. More than 194 showrooms have been opened and more will open in a staggered manner, after getting a green light from authorities. Cars can now be booked online via Renault India’s website or the MyRenault app and customers can request test drives and delivery of cars at home.
“As the lockdown is gradually being lifted and business is slowly resuming, our primary focus is on ensuring that we safeguard our customers, by introducing rigorous safety and hygiene practices across all touchpoints. At the same time, the health, safety and well-being of all Renault employees, dealers and other stakeholders, their families and the community at large is of utmost importance, and we have taken necessary actions on all these fronts as well,” said Venkatram Mamillapalle, Country CEO & Managing Director, Renault India.
The new safety protocols include regular fumigation of showrooms and workshops, health screenings, social distancing and sanitisation of discussion tables, display cars and test drive units. Renault has also introduced a ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ scheme which allows customers to buy a Renault car in the month of May and start paying EMI after three months. There is also a ‘Job Loss Cover’ plan to provide support in case of loss of job due to layoffs, retrenchment, accidental death, permanent disability and hospitalisation in case of any disease including Covid-19. You can find out more about these programs via Renault India’s website or the MyRenault app. Renault has put in place measures to help dealers get back on their feet as well including increased incentives, relaxed targets and support in terms of inventory holding costs.
These new measures should definitely help Renault generate some much needed sales. The car industry might see a slight improvement in sales thanks to the growing need of private vehicles due to concerns over hygiene. With policies supporting customers, dealers and employees, Renault is making sure they are helping their business ecosystem in any way they can.