Ampere: a year of electric revolution at the heart of Renault Group
In November 2023, Renault Group reached a major milestone with the creation of Ampere, an entity exclusively dedicated to intelligent electric vehicles (iEVs). On the occasion of its first anniversary, let’s reflect on Ampere’s key successes, vision, and future prospects.
A proven platform
As early as February 2024, Ampere established itself as an innovative player in the electric vehicle market. Renault Scénic E-Tech Electric, developed on the AmpR Medium platform and manufactured at ElectriCity, Ampere’s industrial hub in northern France, was awarded “Car of the Year” at the Geneva International Motor Show by the COTY jury. This accolade affirmed Ampere’s ability to produce attractive and competitive vehicles for the European market.
An electric icon made in ElectriCity
The Geneva Motor Show also marked the launch of Renault 5 E-Tech Electric. With cutting-edge technologies and an electric powertrain built on the new AmpR Small platform, the reimagining of Renault 5 generated unprecedented enthusiasm. This pop icon, designed to popularize electric cars in the European market, underscores Renault Group’s transformation into a next gen automotive company:
To develop this car in just three years in France, to the highest technological standard, all our decisions had to be disruptive.
A cost reduction strategy
With Twingo E-Tech Electric slated for market release in 2026, Ampere continues to democratize electric vehicles in Europe. Developed in less than two years, this city car will be priced below €20,000.
Twingo E-Tech Electric exemplifies Ampere’s commitment to offering high-performing, affordable vehicles. To gradually lower the sales prices of electric vehicles, Ampere has set a target of reducing costs by 40% by 2028 without compromising margins. Key to this strategy is the integration of advanced technologies, such as Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry and "Cell-to-Pack" solutions, expected to cut battery costs by about 20% starting in early 2026.
A partner for other brands
In just one year, Ampere has proven its ability to innovate in the design and manufacturing of electric vehicles under the Renault brand. Other brands, including Nissan, Alpine, and Mitsubishi, have also sought Ampere’s expertise for developing new electric vehicles: Alpine for the A290 and A390, Nissan for its Compact EV and potentially a new A-segment electric vehicle, and Mitsubishi for its upcoming electric C-SUV. These collaborations highlight Ampere’s role as a technological platform, capable of meeting the challenges of electric mobility efficiently and swiftly.
A development hub
To further optimize its development processes, Ampere now relies on the Advanced China Development Center (ACDC). This entity collaborates closely with Chinese partners, leveraging their ecosystem to enhance Ampere’s global competitiveness.
Collaborations driving innovation
Ampere has adopted a horizontal approach to innovation, partnering with companies like Google, Qualcomm, and Valeo to develop generative AI products and launch its first Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) in 2026. This strategy reduces costs while retaining intellectual property rights for innovations.The approach extends beyond software to batteries—with four European partners—and power electronics, a strategic domain representing a significant portion of powertrain costs.
A vision for decarbonized mobility
As it celebrated its first anniversary, Ampere unveiled its Renault Emblème demo car, embodying a vision for a fully decarbonized family vehicle "from cradle to grave." The vehicle reduces its overall lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions (CO2e) by 90% compared to a similar model produced today. Emblème reflects Ampere’s commitment to eco-design, incorporating recycled materials and advanced technologies to deliver a vehicle that is comfortable, high-performing, and environmentally friendly.
A promising future
Over the past twelve months, Ampere has accelerated vehicle development and production timelines, demonstrated its technological platform expertise through collaborations, announced the integration of LFP and Cell-to-Pack technologies, prepared the launch of its first Software-Defined Vehicle, and revealed a demo car showcasing its ambition to achieve net-zero carbon by 2035.
By 2028, Ampere aims to be ready for the next technological leap in battery chemistry, introducing cobalt-free batteries capable of reducing charging times to under 15 minutes. The next generation of C-segment electric vehicles will deliver unparalleled energy efficiency through advances in energy integration and thermal management. These models will feature cutting-edge technologies, including third-generation rare-earth-free motors. With this lineup, Ampere aspires to rival the market’s leading players. With a clear vision and ambitious objectives, Ampere is poised to reshape the landscape of electric mobility in Europe and beyond.
