Renault is scaling back its Renault Mobilize restructuring. The company will shut down car-sharing services and reduce its fast-charging station rollout. At the same time, it aims to redirect funds to more profitable areas.
Originally, Renault created Mobilize in 2021 under then-CEO Luca de Meo. Back then, the unit explored new mobility ideas like car-sharing, EV charging, and data services. However, after François Provost became CEO in late July, he launched a strategic review. As a result, he concluded that several projects lacked clear financial returns.
Consequently, Renault will discontinue Zity car-sharing in Milan and Madrid. In addition, it will stop production of the micro electric car Duo. “These activities don’t serve our core priorities and show limited profitability,” the company stated.
Moreover, the changes will affect around 80 of Mobilize Beyond Automotive’s 450 employees. To minimize disruption, Renault will encourage voluntary departures and offer internal transfers wherever possible.
Furthermore, it will move energy and data operations back into the main group. This move aims to cut costs and streamline decision-making. “We’re tightening capital allocation,” said Jérôme Faton, head of Energy at Mobilize. “The auto industry is under pressure, and we must fund essential investments.”
Meanwhile, Renault is dramatically scaling back its EV charging goals. Previously, it planned 650 fast-charging stations across Europe by 2028. Now, it targets only 100 in France and just over 100 in Italy by the end of 2026. Additionally, it has canceled all plans for Belgium and Spain.
This shift reflects a wider industry trend. Indeed, automakers now question expensive mobility experiments as EV growth slows and profits shrink. Although car-sharing and public charging once looked promising, many now see them as financial burdens.
Clearly, the Renault Mobilize restructuring marks a break from de Meo’s expansive vision. Under Provost’s leadership, the company is refocusing on core strengths: vehicle engineering, electrification, and software-defined cars. These areas promise better returns in a competitive market.
That said, Mobilize will still support current EV customers. It may also pursue select B2B mobility partnerships. Nevertheless, its days as a standalone innovation lab are over.
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