Córdoba: Renault plans more production and employment thanks to the growth of the sector

The CEO of Renault Argentina, Pablo Sibilla, announced that the Santa Isabel plant in Córdoba will return to double shifts in 2026. The measure will be implemented when production of the new Niagara pickup begins, a project that will involve a multimillion-dollar investment. Currently, the automaker keeps a single shift following Nissan's departure.

Sibilla stated that the brand is testing the first bodies of the new half-ton pickup.  Starting in the second half of next year, Santa Isabel will resume its expanded work pace. "Our plant will have two production shifts starting in the second half or last quarter of 2026," he anticipated.

The executive participated in a meeting with Franco Colapinto, Argentine Alpine driver, to whom he gave a dollar painted with the national flag. "We brought him a lucky dollar as a gift, which has the Alpine car painted on it and the Argentine flag on the other side," he said. In that context, Sibilla shared details of the solid present the Argentine automotive sector is experiencing.

Record expectations for this year drive activity in Córdoba

The Renault plant in Córdoba is growing more than the national average so far in 2025. According to Sibilla, "the market is growing very strongly and will grow more than 50% compared to last year; and Córdoba can grow much more." In this context, Renault estimates a 90% increase in its sales.

National projections aim to close the year with sales between 620,000 and 650,000 units. Córdoba already records a 96% increase in sales, with strong demand sustained by financing plans. "Today, brands are offering a lot of financing," the CEO emphasized.

Sibilla also highlighted that the decrease in inflation contributes to greater predictability in the market. "There is greater dollar stability," he stressed. The consumption of durable goods is stimulated by that perception of overall stability.

The opening of imports boosts supply without affecting national production

The head of Renault welcomed the current conditions of the Argentine market. "Renault relies on that opening to have a greater product offering, just as other brands do, and the rules of the game are the same for everyone," he stated. The brand is expanding its portfolio without discouraging local manufacturing.

Sibilla acknowledged that the transition process involves some adjustments. "One product leaves and another arrives," he summarized. In June of this year, temporary contracts were not renewed, but the main production structure remains stable.

Nissan's withdrawal involved an internal reorganization without conflicts. "There is very fluid dialogue with the union, as I say: you have to cross the river," he said. The objective now is to once again expand the production pace with the launch of the new Niagara model.

Fewer salaries per car and a market leading the economic rebound

According to data from the consulting firm Econométrica,  today it takes 17.4 average salaries to buy a new car. This is the lowest figure in the last five years, reflecting an improvement in purchasing power and macroeconomic stability. The data shows a deep change compared to February 2024, when more than 31 salaries were needed.

This scenario accompanies the remarkable rebound of the Argentine automotive market. Sales in the first half exceed the same period in 2024 by 33.5%. April saw the best vehicle registrations since monthly records began, confirming the sector's consolidation.

With lower inflation, reopening of credit, and more transparent prices, the industry is regaining momentum.  The opening of imports and increased competition expand supply without slowing national production. In this context, Renault is positioned as one of the leading brands in the new cycle of Argentine growth.