The Renault-Nissan alliance has inaugurated a plant in Chennai, India – this is the first dedicated Alliance global plant, with a production capacity of up to 400,000 units.

Photo by nissanautocar@yahoo.in

The Renault-Nissan Alliance Chairman and CEO, Carlos Ghosn inaugurated this vehicle manufacturing plant in the presence of more than 1000 guests. The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of the representatives of state government, led by Dr. Kalaignar Karunanidhi – the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

The plant shows an investment of 45 billion rupees (990 million dollars) and has the capacity to produce 400,00 units per year, at full ramp up. The initial employment capacity will be 1500 workers, when production starts in May 2010. According to estimates of the company, at least 6000 jobs will be opened up in the region.

Carlos Ghosn says that this plant in Chennai is a big milestone for the Renault-Nissan Alliance in India. With the new Micra, the Alliance will see the start of a product offensive in India that has the support of a localized manufacturing facility, which has the capability to make products not just for Renault but also for Nissan.

The first vehicle which will be produced will be the new Nissan Micra.

Photo by cliff1066

The two big organizations will be working together to endorse the electric vehicles development’s charging infrastructures in the hotels. In order to build-up new demand for Hotel industry to promote Electric Vehicles. Based on the new MOU, the new partnership will be a both sided work and study on the following areas.

1. To develop and create new infrastructures for charging in the Hotels with the help of All Japan Rykon Association.
2. To use the EV chargers for the guest’s usage while they are staying.
3. New plans for the development of sales in new Travel Packages, which is meant to deliver the Zero-emission and electric vehicles.
4. Provide current information on the new charging stations and to promote and spread the knowledge through education sectors, the role of this program to bring a healthy environment.