Renault Q2 Sales Flat as Van Demand Slumps, EV Sales Soar

Renault reported virtually flat global sales in Q2 2025, with volumes dipping 0.1% due to a sharp decline in European van demand, offsetting gains in passenger cars and electric vehicles. The performance marks a slowdown from Q1’s 2.8% growth and aligns with the company’s earlier warning of weak June figures.

According to global sales director Ivan Segal, heightened competition and economic uncertainty in Europe’s commercial vehicle market are delaying corporate purchases. Renault's van and light commercial vehicle sales—typically 20% of its total volume—plunged 29%, exacerbated by a product update and unfavorable base comparison.

Despite this, Renault brand car sales rose 8.4% in H1, led by strong demand for the Clio. Electric vehicle sales surged 57%, outperforming the broader EV market’s 25% growth, driven by the popularity of the R5 in France, Germany, and Spain. The Alpine A290, Renault’s premium EV, boosted the brand’s registrations by 85% in H1.

Interim CEO Duncan Minto is leading the company following Luca de Meo’s departure. Renault recently downgraded its full-year profit and free cash flow forecasts and will release complete H1 results on July 31.

The automaker continues expanding into higher-growth markets, with Renault brand sales outside Europe up 16.3% in H1, thanks to strong momentum in Latin America, Turkey, Morocco, and Korea. Segal expects commercial vehicle market share recovery in H2 and double-digit growth outside Europe.

Renault’s heavy European reliance—over 70% of its sales—has shielded it from U.S. tariff risks but leaves it exposed to regional slowdowns and intensifying competition from Chinese EV makers.