Renault names Stephane Deblaise as India CEO, signaling a major push into EVs, localization, and strategic growth in the Indian auto market.
In a move that underscores India’s growing prominence in the global automotive landscape, French carmaker Renault Group has officially named Stephane Deblaise as the new CEO of its India operations, effective from September 1, 2025. The appointment reflects the company’s sharpened focus on the Indian market, one of the fastest-growing hubs for automobile manufacturing and electric mobility in the world.
Currently serving as the head of Renault Korea, Deblaise brings with him a proven track record of strategic transformation and operational excellence. During his tenure in Korea, he successfully led a comprehensive revamp of Renault’s local operations, turning the country into a production and development powerhouse for mid- and large-sized vehicles. He also played a key role in modernising the manufacturing ecosystem to support multi-energy platforms, aligning with Renault’s global electrification and innovation agenda.
India Takes Center Stage in Renault’s Global Strategy
With this leadership transition, Renault appears to be doubling down on India as a long-term strategic market. According to the company, all Renault Group entities operating in India will now report directly to Deblaise. He, in turn, will report to Francois Provost, Renault Group’s Chief of Procurement, Partnerships, and Public Affairs.
“The appointment of Stephane Deblaise reflects our intent to scale deeper in India by leveraging global synergies, boosting localisation, and integrating into Renault’s innovation and supply chain frameworks,” said a company spokesperson.
India, known for its rapidly expanding middle class, urbanisation trends, and evolving EV ecosystem, has become a magnet for global automakers looking to capture growth in the post-pandemic economy. With demand rising across both entry-level and electric vehicle segments, Renault is positioning itself to take advantage of this growth cycle through leadership, investment, and product innovation.
A Leadership Duo to Drive Mid-Term Vision
While Deblaise will take on the CEO mantle, Renault India’s current Managing Director, Venkatram Mamillapalle, will continue in his existing role. Mamillapalle will focus on corporate affairs and provide critical local insights, ensuring continuity during this strategic transition phase. His experience and understanding of India’s regulatory and business landscape are expected to be instrumental as Renault charts its mid-term roadmap for expansion.
This dual leadership model is likely to enhance agility and cross-functional collaboration, especially as the company explores new product launches, electric mobility initiatives, and increased localisation efforts. Analysts view the move as a clear sign that Renault is ready to compete more aggressively in India, not just in traditional vehicles, but also in the fast-evolving EV and urban mobility segments.
Global Trends, Local Ambitions
The announcement comes at a time when international automakers are reassessing their footprints in emerging markets. As the global auto industry moves towards electrification and sustainable transportation, countries like India are seen as pivotal to future growth. Renault’s decision to place an executive of Deblaise’s caliber at the helm of its Indian operations sends a strong message: the company is ready to commit to the long haul.
With Deblaise’s leadership experience in transforming manufacturing bases and driving innovation, Renault could replicate its Korea success story in India. As the market moves toward cleaner, smarter, and more connected vehicles, all eyes will now be on how Renault executes its bold new vision under Deblaise’s guidance.
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