French automaker Renault has said worldwide sales of its flagship brand rose 11% in the first half of the year to 770,807 units, extending a rebound after four years of declines.
The increase marks an acceleration from the 9% growth in sales reported in the first quarter of 2023.
In 2022 sales for the Renault brand - which account for around two thirds of overall group sales - had fallen by 9.4% - their fourth consecutive yearly decline.
Meanwhile, China's Geely Automobile Holdings and Renault said they will invest up to €7 billion in a new equally held joint venture to develop gasoline engines and hybrid technology for automobiles.
The joint venture is aimed at manufacturing more efficient internal combustion engines and hybrid systems at a time when the focus of much of the automobile industry has been on the capital-intensive transition to purely electric vehicles.
"We are pleased to be embarking on this journey to become a global leader in hybrid technologies, providing low-emission solutions for automakers around the world," said Eric Li, Geely Holding Group chairman.
The new company will employ 19,000 people at 17 engine plants and five research and development hubs, Renault said.
At launch, it is expected to supply to multiple industrial customers including Volvo, Proton, Nissan, Mitsubishi Motors and PUNCH Torino.
The JV aims to have an annual production capacity of up to five million internal combustion, hybrid and plug-in hybrid engines and transmissions, Renault added.
Reuters reported in March that the new venture will see €15 billion in annual revenue.
Saudi Aramco, which signed a letter of intent with Renault and Geely in March, is evaluating a strategic investment in the new company, Renault said.
The Saudi oil producer has been involved in advanced discussions to take a stake of up to 20% in the JV, sources said earlier this year.
Big oil firms have worked with automakers to develop sustainable fuels and hydrogen engines in recent years. But a deal here would make Aramco the first major oil producer to invest in the car business.
The joint venture is expected to be launched in the second half of this year.
