Renault’s Maubeuge plant in Northern France has produced its millionth second-generation Kangoo
Renault’s Maubeuge plant has produced its millionth second-generation Kangoo. Initially released in 1998 and then redesigned in 2007, the Kangoo is now available in two forms: a leisure activity vehicle for retail customers and an LCV for the brand’s business customers. The LCV comes in a choice of three sizes – the Kangoo Compact, Kangoo Express and Kangoo Maxi – as well as an electric version, the Kangoo Z.E.
In 2015, the LCV version represented 64% of overall Kangoo production. The same year, 90% of all Kangoos produced (PC + LCV) featured diesel engines, 7% had petrol engines and 3% were electric.
“Kangoo continues to appeal to a diverse clientele of both business and retail customers in all its markets. Our entire plant is proud to celebrate this new production landmark, which confirms our ability to meet customer expectations in terms of quality and lead times.” Jose Martin Vega, Director of the Renault Maubeuge plant”
Renault’s entire range of light commercial vehicles is made in France. The Trafic and Master vans are respectively manufactured in the Group’s Sandouville and Batilly plants, illustrating the know-how and competitiveness of its French production sites.
The Maubeuge facility also produces the Citan for Renault’s partner, Daimler.
Japan is the final destination for the millionth Kangoo which features an Etoilé Blue finish.
Although France, Spain and Germany are the car’s three chief markets, its popularity is rising in Japan, where 1,679 Kangoos were sold in 2015, accounting for one-third of all Renault sales in the country. Only the leisure activity version is available in Japan, but the vehicle has been a constant crowd-pleaser since 1998.
To ensure even greater appeal to Japanese customers, specific body colours and up to three limited editions are introduced each year.
And the Japanese do love their Kangoos! Every year, owners gather at the base of Mount Fuji for the Kangoo Jamboree. Last year, more than 1,000 Kangoos were present for the seventh edition of this event. Don’t miss the 2016 Jamboree in mid-May, which promises to be another unique and memorable gathering.
