Carlos Ghosn Chairman of Renault

By Kim Tae-jong

Beijing ― Carlos Ghosn, chairman of Renault, said Monday the company will support Renault Samsung Motors (RSM) in boosting its sluggish sales, refuting allegations that the French company will sell off the affiliate due to its poor performance.

“Renault Samsung Motor is facing challenges,” he said, admitting the automaker’s poor sales in the domestic market, during a news conference held at the start of the 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition at the China International Exhibition Center.

But he went on to say it was not right to seek a getaway plan whenever meeting a “bump.”

He said Renault will come up with plans and a strategy to support its Korean affiliate but did not elaborate.

RSM’s sales have dropped on the Korean market ― the automaker sold a total of 246,959 cars last year, 9 percent down from the previous year. It sold 109,221 locally and 137,738 overseas.

This can be seen as very disappointing given its ambitious launch of the new SM7, a premium sedan, which will soon be available on the Chinese market.

The French automaker also unveiled its high-end Talisman sedan Monday, renamed for the Chinese market, and announced the vehicle will be exported starting in mid-June. The automaker expects this will help to increase the market share of Renault in China.

The automaker said the Talisman, which embodies “casual luxury,” will appeal to Chinese motorists in terms of value for money and luxury for daily life.

“Talisman is intended for the new generation of business people, who are looking for a car that can fit both business and private uses. These are very demanding customers. They are looking for the best, for excellence and comfort, not only for themselves but to indulge their business relationships and their friends and family,” Robert Chan, managing director of Renault China, said.

The 2012 International Automotive Exhibition will be held from April 23 until May 2. The 12th show alternates every year between Shanghai and Beijing.

e3dward@koreatimes.co.kr