Apparently, the misunderstandings between Renault and Caterham were deeper than reported, as the French carmaker announced that it has bought Caterham’s share in the Société des Automobiles Alpine Caterham joint venture.
Consequently, Renault now holds 100 percent of the company, with Société des Automobiles Alpine Caterham to change its name to Société des Automobiles Alpine. Renault didn’t disclose how much it paid for Caterham’s share. The French carmaker said it would continue to develop its own Alpine sports car to be launched in 2016, while Caterham Group also plans to continue with its own sports car.
The transaction ends the partnership signed in November 2012 between Renault and Caterham Group to develop and build sports cars through a joint venture, Société des Automobiles Alpine Caterham, owned 50/50 by the two partners.
However, the French automaker said that “other forms of cooperation could still be envisaged between Renault and Caterham Group in line with each company’s strategic policy directions.”
Renault’s Dieppe plant, home of the Alpine brand, is currently making preparations to build and assemble the chassis and bodywork of the future Alpine. The company says it is fully committed to developing a true Alpine production vehicle by 2016 under the management of Bernard Ollivier.
“With 90% of design specifications complete and an interior design to be finalized before the summer, enthusiasm is growing around the future Alpine production vehicle. The key words for the vehicle are style, enjoyment and sporting spirit,” said Bernard Ollivier.
By Dan Mihalascu
Note: Renault Alpine A110-50 Concept pictured
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