Renault says customers, not manufacturers, will decide when diesel is too expensive
Renault has denied reports that the company may stop producing diesel engines for small cars sold in Europe, claiming the market will decide when diesel has run its course, not a manufacturer.
Reuters had previously stated that Renault felt rising development costs brought about by new European emission regulations would lead to diesel engines becoming uneconomic to make.
A statement from the company said: “There is nothing new. Renault has always said it will adapt its offer according to the local market demand. Diesel makes up around 70% of Renault’s sales in the UK today.”
The French car manufacturer, which has been subject to investigation in the wake of the VW emissions scandal, has admitted new regulation will make diesel engines more expensive, but a spokesman said the market will decide when prices get too high.
“Diesel cars are already expensive compared to petrol cars,” he said. “Some small cars aren’t available with these engines because they’re more expensive to produce, but we think consumers will make the decision when diesel is too expensive.”
