“Filante combines the dynamism of a sedan with the comfortable driving feel of a sport utility vehicle (SUV), providing an option for customers who want a car that is different from others.”

This remark by Pavlos Cambolive, CEO and Vice President of the Renault brand, at Walkerhill Hotel in Gwangjin District, Seoul, on the 13th, encapsulates the identity of Renault’s newly unveiled hybrid model “Filante.” Based on this new model, Renault plans to position Korea as a key hub for production and exports, competing through distinctive technology and design.

Cambolive cited “originality” as Filante’s competitive edge. He explained that the model targets consumers with distinctive tastes by drawing on an identity that blends the sensibilities of a French brand with a Korean touch. “Filante is clearly differentiated from competing models in terms of body type and design,” he said.

Filante has already secured export markets in nine South American countries and seven Middle Eastern countries. The company also indicated that export destinations could be expanded depending on production volume and market research results.

The strategic importance of Korea was reaffirmed. In its 2023 mid- to long-term strategy “International Game Plan,” Renault designated Korea, along with Latin America, India, Türkiye and Morocco, as one of its five hubs. Under this plan, Renault is set to launch a total of eight new models in global markets, with Korea introducing Filante in 2024 as the second strategic model following the Grand Koleos.

Cambolive assessed, “Korea has potential for premium segment expansion and provides a highly developed environment for validating vehicle connectivity technologies, and free trade agreements also make exports easier,” adding, “In that sense, Korea is a key hub for production and exports.”

Cambolive also outlined the group’s use of artificial intelligence (AI) on the day. He explained that digital transformation and AI adoption have cut the new model development cycle to half of what it was previously. “Please note that the interval between the launches of Grand Koleos and Filante is just two years,” he said, implying that the company managed to develop a new model in a short period of time.

Meanwhile, regarding plans for electric vehicle production at the Busan plant, Cambolive said, “We are currently focused on responding to rising hybrid demand and introducing models such as Filante,” adding, “Considering the maturity of the market, it is difficult to disclose specific plans, but investment in the Busan plant will continue.”

Popular News