The Renault story
Louis Renault built his first car, the Voiturette, in Boulogne-Billancourt near Paris in 1898, and in 1899 he founded Renault Frères with his brothers Marcel and Fernand. Renault was nationalised in 1945 and became a symbol of French industry.
What makes Renault powerful
Renault's power comes from popular cars that shaped daily life, such as the 4CV, the Renault 4 and the Clio. Its diamond logo is known across Europe. The group also owns Dacia and Alpine, and it has a long alliance with Nissan.
Renault today
Renault Group is headquartered in Boulogne-Billancourt and the French state remains a shareholder. François Provost became CEO in 2025. Electric models such as the new Renault 5 and Renault 4 have brought back much-loved names.
What comes next for Renault
Renault's next step is to make electric cars affordable for ordinary buyers and to keep the turnaround it has achieved since 2020 going in a tougher European market.
Why Renault ranks #84
Brand Positioning & Recall (74.0) and Product, Innovation & Delivery (68.0) carry Renault's Power Score of 66.16.
Digital Presence & Financial Soundness at 58.0. What would move it: Stronger digital engagement and clearer published financial reporting at brand level.
Pillar profile
Versus its nearest rivals
13 Automotive & Mobility brands are in the Europe 100. Renault is #11 in its sector.
Questions people ask
What rank is Renault in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026?
Renault ranks #84 of 100 in Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026, with a WCRC Power Score of 66.16 out of 100.
When was Renault founded and who founded it?
Renault was founded in 1899. Founder(s): Louis, Marcel and Fernand Renault.
What is Renault's weakest area?
In the 2026 assessment, Renault's lowest pillar is Digital Presence & Financial Soundness at 58.0 out of 100.
Who leads Renault today?
François Provost, CEO of Renault Group. The brand is owned by Renault Group.
Where is Renault headquartered?
Renault is based in Boulogne-Billancourt, France. Its country of origin is France.
What is Renault's revenue?
€57.9bn group revenue (FY2025, +3.0%), according to the company's published results.
What is a signature fact about Renault?
Louis Renault built his first car, the Voiturette Type A, in 1898.
Key facts
| Brand | Renault |
|---|---|
| Company / owner | Renault Group |
| Headquarters | Boulogne-Billancourt, France |
| Founded | 1899 |
| Founder(s) | Louis, Marcel and Fernand Renault |
| Leadership | François Provost, CEO of Renault Group |
| Latest revenue | €57.9bn group revenue (FY2025, +3.0%) Source |
| Sector | Automotive & Mobility |
| Country of origin | France |
| Signature fact | Louis Renault built his first car, the Voiturette Type A, in 1898. |
| Official website | renaultgroup.com |
Renault is ranked #84 in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 (Power Score 66.16).