Renault Drops Plans for Luxury Sedan Based on E-Class

RenaultRenaultFrance, 1898 > present189 models
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has cancelled plans to create its own luxury sedan based on the Mercedes E-ClassMercedes-Benz E-Class Gen.5Germany, 2009 > present345 versions
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. However, it is still planning to launch the Initiale Paris brand for upscale Renault vehicles.

The change in plans comes from MercedesMercedes-BenzGermany, 1924 > present197 models
9852 photos
33 videos
not being able to continue building the E-Class platform in the three years it would take for Renault to get its sedan to market. Mercedes plans to have a new E-Class ready around that time. 

According to Renault Chief Operating Officer Carlos Tavares, Renault  "hadn't found a business model that works" for the new sedan.

Tavares says that the plans have not been completely cancelled. Renault could still build a luxury sedan. But it will not be soon, and it will not be on the current E-Class platform. 

The Initiale Paris brand will be launched in 2014 and use platforms from existing Renault models. 

Source: Autocar