Volvo, Renault JV 'Flexis SAS' to make electric vans in France

Last week, auto conglomerates Volvo Group and Renault Group officially announced the creating of a new joint venture company named 'Flexis SAS' for the next generation fully electric and software defined vehicles in Europe, at an investment of invest respectively about € 300 million in the coming three years.

Based in France, the new JV is aimed at addressing the growing needs of decarbonized and efficient urban logistics, according to the partners. 

A few days ago, Renault announced that Flexis SAS will build a new generation of all-electric vans based on a connected electronic platform at its Sandouville plant in France from 2026. 

The Sandouville site is known for its LCV production for over a decade, along with its close supply chain links with the industrial and production ecosystem for LCVs involving other facilities of Renault in the country. The facility is awaiting digital transformation and is committed to achieving net zero carbon by 2030, according to the automaker. 

"The assignment of this new project recognizes the expertise and commitment of women and men at the plant. A new era is beginning at Sandouville, with the production of a new generation of electric LCVs that will transform the logistics of the future with their revolutionary design", said Thierry Charvet, Chief Industry & Quality Officer, Renault Group. 

"This is a source of pride for us, and it is also a challenge that we are taking up at this historic site, where the objective is to remain an industry benchmark. With this decision, Renault Group is strengthening its industrial footprint in France", he added. 

Renault has also announced a recruitment and training plan for a new workforce to meet the distinctive needs of the new JV and its production of electric delivery vans. 

On the investment side, French shipping and logistics major CMA CGM Group has confirmed its interest for a strategic investment up to EUR 120 million in Flexis through its € 1.5 billion investment fund 'PULSE' aimed at fostering the decarbonization of the logistics value chain.

Electric delivery vans are of significant importance in decarbonizing urban and last-mile logistics in global markets, especially in Europe where in the markets are very high. Renault is one of the big player in this segment, which has also established a dedicated JV 'Hyvia' with Plug Power to make hydrogen-powered delivery vans in France.