In recent months, Renault has experienced significant changes within its ranks, shaking the foundations of the company that has begun to see a resurgence in sales and brand reputation. The latest departure has been Gilles Vidal, a prominent designer credited with the revitalization of some of Renault’s most iconic models, including the much-anticipated Renault 5 e-tech. Vidal has signed on with Stellantis, a move that has left many within the automotive community questioning the company’s direction.
This change comes hot on the heels of another major exit: Luca de Meo, the CEO who led Renault since 2020 and was instrumental in the so-called ” Renaulution ,” has decided to take on new challenges outside the automotive industry. He will be heading Kering, a luxury goods conglomerate known for owning high-end brands like Gucci and Balenciaga.
The combination of these two departures feels like an internal earthquake for Renault, particularly as the brand appears to be on a commercial upswing with the success of the Renault 5. Just when Renault seemed to have overcome a turbulent period marked by substantial losses due to mismanagement, it faces new uncertainties.
<img alt="Renault surprises with a bombing: we will have a Renault 5 electric turbo, rear traction, and with 500 hp" width="375" height="142" src="https://i.blogs.es/554752/r-dam_1626004/375_142.jpeg"/>Gilles Vidal: The Designer Who Redrew the Rhombus
Gilles Vidal is far from a typical designer in the European automotive scene. Having spent 25 years at the PSA Group, where he contributed to successful projects such as the Peugeot 208 and 3008, he joined Renault in 2020. His arrival marked the beginning of a new chapter for the company, signifying a shift in both product offerings and overall design philosophy.
Under Vidal’s leadership, the Renault 5 e-tech was awarded the title of Car of the Year in Europe for 2025. This model drew upon the nostalgia of the vibrant 80s while incorporating cutting-edge technology . “With the new Renault 5 e-tech electric, we have hit the nail on the head,” Vidal stated in an interview with Hybrids and Electric. As he transitions back to Stellantis , where he first made his mark, the future of Renault’s design strategy emerges as a pressing concern.
Stellantis is Reinforced and Renault Seeks Answers
According to a statement from the French manufacturing giant, Vidal’s new role at Stellantis will officially commence on October 1, 2025 , where he will take over as the design director for the company’s European brands, filling the shoes of Jean-Pierre Ploué while reporting directly to Jean-Philippe Imparato, Director of European Operations.
Vidal expressed enthusiasm about his return, stating, “I am excited to return to my roots. In a world where technology and design must go hand in hand to transform the customer experience, I am looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that await us.”
As Renault contemplates its future, the company is now tasked with filling a double vacuum in leadership and design. With both key figures having exited, the brand must prove whether the ongoing success of the Renault 5 is a momentary triumph or the result of a solid strategy propelling Renault towards sustained growth. The eagerly awaited Renault 4 e-tech is poised to take the stage, setting the tone for what lies ahead.
Additionally, Renault maintains that the future of their vehicle lineup will go beyond electric cars, with plans for plug-in hybrid technology and even hydrogen-powered options, showcasing their commitment to exploring diverse avenues for automotive innovation.
As Renault navigates this period of change, the automotive world watches closely, eager to see how the company will redefine itself amidst such pivotal transformations. With an evolving landscape and strong competition, Renault’s next steps will be crucial in solidifying its place among the leading automobile manufacturers worldwide.