Construction work begins today on the Oued-Tlelat plant, south-west of Oran, illustrating the ambition and commitment of the Renault group and its Algerian partners to contribute to the development of the automotive industry in Algeria. The plant is scheduled to begin production of New Symbol in November 2014. Output will be for the local market, the second biggest on the African continent with more than 300,000 vehicles sold since the start of 2013.
This project which is sponsored by the Algerian Ministry for Industrial Development and for the Promotion of Investment also shows the commitment of public authorities in Algeria.
The first phase in the recruitment of future production workers for the plant is also under way. Renault and its Algerian partners have announced the creation of more than 350 direct jobs corresponding to an initial production capacity of 25,000 vehicles per year in the project’s first phase. Following a series of information sessions and qualification tests, the national employment agency (ANEM) has already made an initial selection of potential candidates. Candidates recruited will then receive training from Renault’s experts and by the Oued Tlélat/Oran CFPA training centre.
Renault views the training of local staff as a priority, in the case of production workers and also suppliers, since this will be a key success factor for the industrial project. In terms of suppliers, the aim is to support the development of local sub-contracting, a major component of industrial development in Algeria, while transmitting Renault’s technology to the companies selected, alongside its expertise in quality and competitive edge.
“We are proud, within the Renault Algérie Production joint-venture, to be contributing to the development of the automotive industry in Algeria through this project. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate our team and our partners for their efforts and commitment in making this launch a success,” said Bernard Sonilhac, CEO of the joint-venture “Renault Algérie Production – RAP Spa”.
Symbol, which was renewed in March 2013, is already a major success in Algeria. New Symbol brings major improvements in terms of roadholding, space, comfort and technology, with a more attractive design and more modern equipment.