Purpose

I will try my best to provide detailed info on various cars and what is like to live with them, I have already produced a few for Jaguar-car-forums, I will do my best to be unbiased, but it will be hard for some cars. I will re-produce press releases and copy from other motoring news.
Showing posts with label Sales growth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sales growth. Show all posts

Saturday, 12 November 2016

EUROPE - Nissan celebrates selling 75,000 Electric vehicles in Europe after the announcement of 260,000 worldwide.

  • Nissan passes 75,000 electric vehicle (EV) sales milestone in Europe as the EV market gains momentum
  • Nissan LEAF sales up 10 percent and e-NV200 sales up 34 percent in the first half of FY16*
  • Nissan Intelligent Mobility takes another step forward as the brand celebrates more than 260,000 Nissan EV customers worldwide
European Nissan LEAF sales have risen by 10 percent in the first half of FY16 compared with the same period last year, Nissan has announced today. The latest figures also reveal that there are more than 75,000 Nissan EV owners in Europe as the electric vehicle revolution speeds up across the continent.

This momentous milestone follows the recent announcement that 260,000 Nissan EVs have been sold worldwide, reinforcing Nissan’s vision for a zero-emission future as the brand continues to make Intelligent Mobility a reality.


EV sales have been further bolstered by strong e-NV200 sales year-to-date FY16 – up 34 percent year-on-year. Increased demand for Nissan’s zero-emission e-NV200 from businesses across Europe comes as the brand celebrates the extension of its class-leading five year warranty to include the all-electric LCV.


Gareth Dunsmore, Director of Electric Vehicles at Nissan Europe, said: “Europe’s electric vehicle market is growing at an extraordinary pace as motorists across the continent switch on to the multiple benefits that electric mobility provides.


“As part of Nissan Intelligent Mobility, it is our aim to offer customers around the world a safer and more sustainable future through our electric vehicle range including, the Nissan LEAF and e-NV200. By driving sales, we are encouraging increasing numbers of drivers to switch to EVs and ultimately, move towards to a zero-emission future.”

With the LEAF’s 30kWh battery now offering 155 miles in driving range** and as many as 4,000 quick chargers installed across Europe, driving an electric car is more practical and enjoyable than ever before, providing an easy gateway to a zero-emission future. Nissan is dedicated to delivering a smarter, more sustainable future, with customers across the globe having driven more than 2.5 billion electric miles.

Friday, 30 September 2016

PARIS - Dacia moves its core models, Sandero, Stepway and Logan more upmarket with better interiors and exterior tweaks.

  • Refreshed styling for Dacia’s core models – the Sandero, Sandero Stepway, Logan MCV and, in certain European markets, Logan. These models are now more modern and more attractive than ever
  • The new entry-level three-cylinder petrol engine – the 1.0-litre SCe 75 – is modern, more economical and Euro6 compliant
  • Dacia sales have continued to climb ever since the brand’s relaunch in 2004
  • At the end of August 2016 Dacia set a new sales record with more than 391,000 units sold worldwide YTD – an increase of 7.3 per cent compared to 2015
  • New Dacia models to go on sale in the UK at the start of 2017
WHAT’S NEW AT THE 2016 PARIS MOTOR SHOW
Dacia has refreshed the design of its three signature models: the Sandero, Sandero Stepway, Logan MCV and, in certain European markets, Logan. A wide range of engine options (including the new SCe 75) is also available, along with a choice of transmissions and new affordable equipment options. Meanwhile, the Duster can be equipped for the first time with EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) automatic transmission for an even more enjoyable drive. 
New Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Logan MCV… always more
Dacia has refreshed the exterior and interior design of its three signature models, namely the Logan MCV, the Sandero and the Sandero Stepway. These enhancements embody Dacia‘s new, more assertive and even more modern lighting signature.

Exterior styling: even more modern and attractive
Dacia design is on the move. The models display a new lighting signature front and rear[1] for an even more dynamic, contemporary look. The design of the front and rear lights has been revised. The front LED daytime running lights feature a pattern of three stacked rectangles. The rear lighting signature is based on three illuminated squares.
The new Logan MCV and the new Sandero all share a more modern front bumper design, along with chrome detailing for the air intake grille. Meanwhile, the design of the front and rear bumpers[2] has been reworked to emphasise the models’ muscular stance.
These design enhancements are shown to particularly powerful effect on the new Sandero Stepway. This model has a new frontal identity which picks up on the design cues of the Duster. The grille elegantly combines the black tones of the bumper with chrome detailing which brings an even more dynamic touch to the vehicle’s nose. At the rear, a chromed exhaust tailpipe highlights the car’s tough, ready-for-action character.
Last but not least, the brand’s range of wheel trims and alloy wheels has been updated (depending on individual markets and models).
Status-enhancing interior
The cabins of the new models have been upgraded, too, including a more elegant and more contemporary satin-effect chrome finish for the air vent surrounds, trim strip and centre console fascia. The new four-spoke steering wheel has the horn push in the centre and proudly displays the Dacia logo. The steering wheel on high-end versions stands out through its exclusive Soft Feel finish that is both durable and pleasant to the touch.
On the new Sandero Stepway, the interior door releases are now chrome plated. Models across the range come with new upholstery fabrics with textures and patterns that convey both a fresher feel and an impression of comfort. The upholstery of new Sandero Stepway features a 3D weave for a greater sensation of depth, enhanced by top-stitching.
Even more extensively equipped but still at an affordable price
The new Logan MCV, new Sandero and new Sandero Stepway feature new driver aids designed to make driving even easier and more practical. A reversing camera (depending on version) and Hill Start Assist simplify manoeuvring and, in response to customer feedback, Dacia has relocated the front and rear electric window switches to the door panels. For the driver, the window switch has a handy one-touch function, while comfort is further enhanced by a retractable armrest incorporated into the driver’s seat (depending on version).
The cabin is as spacious as ever and even more practical thanks numerous stowage spaces, including a front mobile phone cubby hole and a tray on the side of the console to accommodate small items. The new centre console design incorporates a bottle holder at the rear. Also new is a 12-volt power socket which allows rear passengers to charge mobile devices.
A new engine, the SCe 75
Seven different powertrains are available from launch, including the new, Euro 6-compliant SCe 75. This 75-horsepower, three-cylinder, 1.0-litre unit has benefited from Renault’s expertise. The result is a CO2 emissions and fuel consumption saving of almost 10 per cent[3] .
Dacia offers a broad range of engine-transmission combinations:
  • Petrol: SCe 75 / TCe 90 with Stop&Start (S&S) / TCe 90 S&S LPG / TCe 90 S&S mated to Easy-R automated manual transmission.
  • Diesel: dCi 75 S&S / dCi 90 S&S with either a manual gearbox or Easy-R automated manual transmission.
DACIA SALES CONTINUE TO CLIMB
Since its revival in 2004, Dacia has soldmore than four million vehicles, mainly in Europe and the Mediterranean region. Dacia set a new sales record at the end of August 2016, selling more than 391,000 units and reporting a 7.3 per cent increase in sales. Its market share increases in Europe +0.1 point (2.5%), in Eurasia + 0.1 point (7.9%) and + 1.7 point in Maghreb (17.8%). Dacia remains a hugely popular brand among its customers.
Record sales
At end-August 2016, Dacia had sold 391,098 units globally, a gain of 7.3 per cent. No fewer than 27 of the 44 markets where the Dacia brand is sold set markets share or sales records as of end-August 2016.
  • In Europe, Dacia’s sales totalled 288,477 units – a new record and an increase of 12.5 per cent. The Sandero is Europe’s third best-B-segment selling vehicle to retail customers[4]. The Dacia Duster is the second best-selling C-segment vehicle to retail customers in Europe.
  • In France, Dacia reported a 12.3 per cent rise in sales to 77,671 vehicles and set a new record for passenger car sales. The brand beat its existing record for passenger car sales, with more than 76,000 registrations. Sales of the Sandero climbed by 26.7 per cent and the model moved up three spots in the French rankings. The Sandero was the second top-selling car to retail customers.
  • In other European countries, Dacia saw its sales increase by 12.6 per cent to 210,806 units. In Italy, the brand posted record sales of 38,316 units, up 18.2 per cent. New records were also set in Spain (39,192 units) and Poland (13,381 units), where Dacia reported its highest-ever market share at 4.3 per cent. Dacia also posted record market share in the Czech Republic at 4.8 per cent.
  • In Morocco, Dacia’s sales grew by 21.9 per cent to 28,327 units. The brand was still in the lead in the passenger car and LCV market combined, scoring a 26.4 per cent market share.
  • In Turkey, with 26,984 sales, Dacia still beat its previous records for market share (up 4.7 per cent).
Active in 44 countries, Dacia aims to build on recent new model releases in its mainstream range to boost its popularity.
For more than 10 years, the Dacia brand has stood out as a major player in the car market thanks to its straightforward policy of manufacturing attractive models that provide real value for money for the equipment they feature.
Dacia customers keep close contact with the brand
Dacia customers show their commitment to the brand on Facebook, which has a community of more than three million Dacia fans. Dacia Picnics are now a tradition and each year attract several thousand people in a number of different countries.
Customer loyalty has driven the brand’s commercial success. On June 26, more than 11,000 customers attended Dacia’s eighth annual picnic in France. Similar events held in Denmark and Germany attracted 3,000 people and 5,500 people, respectively. In the UK, the Dacia Day is into its fourth year where everyone enjoys a friendly atmosphere and a fun-packed day.

Friday, 19 February 2016

Renault Group announces the final year full figures, and everything is doing really well.

  • Group revenues up 10.4% to €45,327 million
  • New registrations up 3.3% to 2.8 million units
  • Group operating profit at €2,320 million (+44.2%), representing 5.1% of revenues versus 3.9% in 2014
  • Automotive operating profit increased by 74.4% at €1,496 million (3.5% of automotive revenues versus 2.2% in 2014)
  • Group operating income at €2,121 million (+91.9%)
  • Associated companies’ contribution amounted to €1,371 million (versus €1,362 million in 2014), including AvtoVAZ’s negative contribution
  • Net income at €2,960 million (+48.1%), compared to €1,998 million in 2014
  • Positive Automotive operational free cash flow at €1,033 million
“2015 results mark a decisive step towards the achievement of our plan “Drive the Change” targets. The involvement of all our staff and the success of our vehicles allowed us to reach our operating margin target sooner than planned. We must now achieve our revenue target while maintaining a margin in excess of 5%” said Carlos Ghosn, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Renault.

In 2015, Group revenues came to €45,327 million, up 10.4% from 2014. At constant exchange rates, revenues grew by 10.6%.
Automotive revenues amounted to €43,108 million, up 10.9% thanks to an increase in Group’s brands volumes and sales to partners. The price effect was positive, primarily due to price increases in some emerging markets to offset currency devaluation.
The Group's operating profit amounted to €2,320 million (+44.2%), compared to €1,609 million in 2014, representing 5.1% of revenues (3.9% in 2014).
The Automotive operating profit was up €638 million (+74.4%) to €1,496 million, or 3.5% of revenues (versus 2.2% in 2014).
This performance is mainly attributable to volume growth (€480 million) and cost reduction (€527 million).
On the other hand, the mix/price/enrichment effect was negative by €379 million, mainly due to costs related to the life-cycle management of some ageing products, and to Euro 6 costs.
Finally, currency and raw materials impacts were slightly positive, respectively at €22 million and €61 million.
The contribution of Sales Financing to the Group's operating profit amounted to €824 million, compared to €751 million in 2014. This increase was due in particular to the rising contribution of services. The cost of risk improved to 0.33% of the average performing loans outstanding, compared to 0.43% in 2014.
Other Operating Income and Expenses Items were negative at €199 million (-€504 million in 2014), mainly due to restructuring costs related to the ongoing implementation of the competitiveness agreement in France and restructuring costs in some other countries.
The Group's operating income came to €2,121 million, compared to €1,105 million in 2014. The increase in operating profit and significant reduction in other expenses led to this improvement.
The contribution of associated companies came to €1,371 million, compared to €1,362 million in 2014.
Nissan’s contribution amounted to €1,976 million in 2015 versus €1,559 million in 2014.
Regarding AvtoVAZ’s contribution, the exceptionally weak economic situation in Russia (35% contraction in the auto market, 33% decrease of the annual average Ruble exchange rate, and rising interest rates), worse than our initial expectations, led Renault to book a €620 million loss explained by:
  • Renault’s share in the net loss booked by AvtoVAZ  for €395 million (of which €136 million from negative operating margin),
  • An impairment loss on the value of the equity investment for €225 million, to adjust it to the stock- market value of AvtoVAZ shares. As of December 31, 2015, Renault’s share in AvtoVAZ was valued at €91million.
The Renault group has entered into discussions with the other shareholders of the AvtoVAZ’s controlling holding company, ARA BV, with an intention to recapitalize the company. This could lead to consolidation in Renault’s accounts. As a result, the loan and receivables on AvtoVAZ would be capitalized and constitute part of the net equity investment on December 31, 2015.
Net income came to €2,960 million (+48.1%), and Group share totaled €2,823 million (€10.35 per share, compared to €6.92 per share in 2014, up 49.6%).
Automotive operational free cash flow was positive at €1,033 million, mainly due to the increase in profitability, as well as a positive change of €663 million in the working capital requirement.
A dividend of €2.40 per share, vs €1.90 last year, will be submitted for approval at the next Shareholder’s Annual General Meeting.
OUTLOOK 2016
In 2016, the global market is expected to record growth of 1% to 2% compared with 2015. The European market is expected to increase by 2%, with a 2% increase also for France.
At the International level, the Brazilian and Russian markets are expected to decline further, by 6% and 12% respectively. On the contrary, China (+4% to +5%) and India (+8%) should pursue their momentum.
Within this context, the Renault group (at constant scope of consolidation) is aiming to:
  • increase group revenues (at constant exchange rates),
  • improve group operating margin,
  • generate a positive Automotive operational free cash flow.
Renault CONSOLIDATED RESULTS
€ million20152014Change
Group revenues45,32741,055+4,272
Operating profit
% of revenues
2,320
5.1%
1,609
3.9%
+711
+1.2pts
Other operating income and expenses items-199-504+305
Operating income2,1211,105+1,016
Net financial income-221-333+112
Contribution from associated companies1,3711,362+9
o/w : NISSAN1,9761,559+417
                    AvtoVAZ-620-182-438
Current and deferred taxes-311-136-175
Net income2,9601,998+962
Net income, group share2,8231,890+933
Automotive operational free cash flow1,0331,083-50