The Renault-Nissan Alliance has confirmed the launch of a new manufacturing project in South Africa. Nissan's manufacturing plant at Rosslyn was identified as having the potential to maximize synergies between Renault and Nissan.

With this manufacturing project, the two groups are reaffirming their commitment to South Africa. Renault and Nissan are to invest 1 billion rand (80 million euros) in the project to adapt two cars to the South African market (e.g. right-hand drive), prepare the plant, and develop the local components and accessories supply chain. Current production output at the plant is 40,000 units per year. This will increase to 68,000 units in 2009 as a result of the investment. The local integration rate will be 25% at the start of production and gradually increase afterwards. Production will initially be sold in the local market.

Production of the new Nissan half-ton Pickup NP200 follows the end of 1400 Bakkie production. "Nissan has built up a formidable reputation in the light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment of the market and the retirement of the legendary 1400 Bakkie should not be viewed as the end but rather the beginning of an era," emphasized Nissan South Africa Managing Director Mike Whitfield, who said that Nissan South Africa was dedicated to sustaining its reputation in the sector.

Xavier Gobille, Managing Director of Renault South Africa explains: "Sandero will represent affordable motoring, produced to meet the needs of the South African market and will be the first Renault product manufactured in South Africa". Renault Sandero will contribute significantly to Renault's growth in South Africa. In the coming years, Renault will expand the product line-up offered to South African customers with vehicles ranging from entry-level to upper range. Among them will be New Twingo, a lively little car, connected and practical, and Koleos, Renault's first crossover, set for launch in South Africa in 2008.

Addendum

Nissan in South Africa

* 1963: Establishment of assembly plant in Rosslyn, northwest of Pretoria
* 1973: Engine plant established
* 1992: 1 000 000th car assembled
* 1995: ISO 9002 certification achieved in all plants
* 2000: ISO 14001 certification achieved to light and heavy assembly plants

Nissan South Africa, Sales subsidiary

Legal status and distribution of share capital: Limited Company 100% held by Nissan
Date of establishment: 1963
Workforce: 1902 employees as of 30 June 2008
Dealer network: 114 dealerships in SA

Nissan plant of Rosslyn

Date of establishment: 1963
Activities: Body assembly of the Hardbody, Tiida Hatchback, Tiida Sedan, Grand Livina, Livina and Livina X-Gear as well as NP 200.
Certifications: ISO 9001 and ISO14001
Vehicles assembled: 43,792 units (FY07)
Production lines: 2 lines

Renault in South Africa

* 1996: Signing of an import contract with Imperial Car Imports (ICI).
* 1998: Opening of the Renault Representation Office.
* 2001: Renault first automobile importer in South Africa.
* 2002: Creation of the Renault South Africa joint venture company, following the acquisition by Renault of 51% of the ICI subsidiary.

Renault South Africa, Sales subsidiary

Legal status and distribution of share capital: Limited Company 51%-held by Renault and 49%-held by Imperial.
Date of establishment: 2002
Workforce: 533 employees on June 30, 2008.
Dealer network: 47 dealerships in SA and neighbouring countries