Following a successful business transition process Renault Australia has joined the newly created mega automotive corporate Ateco Group.
All existing Renault dealers have endorsed the change by making the switch to the Ateco Group, supported by 24 business critical roles from the former head office function.
This takes the total number of Ateco Group direct employees to 250, with over 215 dealerships now selling and servicing Ateco brands.
The Ateco Group is on-track to hit over $1 billion in turnover next financial year.
The Renault business will be led by Glen Sealey, former COO of Maserati Australia and New Zealand.
Sealey has an extensive, multi-discipline background across a range of brands, and strong dealer relationships.
“This is a significant milestone in the history of the Ateco Group,” said Neville Crichton CNZM, Founder and Executive Chairman of the Ateco Group.
“History shows we usually initiate the presence of automotive brands in Australia, but this is the first time in over 30 years we have taken on an established OEM – we’re delighted to welcome Renault Australia to the Ateco Group,” he said.
“Renault joins LDV, Maserati, RAM Trucks and Upfitter in Australia, alongside Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Jeep, Maserati and RAM in New Zealand. We look forward to making further brand announcements in due course.”
Renault has previously sold more than 10,000 cars per annum in Australia, proving that the brand can play a significant role in the local market.
The Renault Australia passenger car portfolio currently comprises Megane RS, All-New Captur and Koleos, starting from $28,190 RRP up to $56,990 RRP.
The commercial portfolio is made up of Kangoo, Trafic and Master, starting from $26,290 RRP and rising to $64,490 RRP.
“We welcome Renault dealers to our ever-growing network,” said Sealey.
“And we welcome Renault customers to a new brand experience, with a range of exciting new products that reflect both the changing automotive landscape and consumer preferences.
“As an established, independent, distributor we will study all right-hand drive products that can be homologated for Australia on a commercial basis. For today, however, we have a strong model range across commercial and passenger segments, and we have just launched the All-New Captur – so our job in the short-term is to maximise the potential of these models in Australia.
“Product will always be key. The launch of the All-New Captur marks the start of a product offensive from Renault, not just in terms of new vehicles but drivetrains, too. Renault is well positioned to capitalise on the rising EV trend once it’s strongly adopted in Australia.”
(Image: Neville Crichton, Founder and Executive Chairman of the Ateco Group).