Groupe Renault has acquired French company PVI, short for Power Vehicle Innovation, with a view to accelerating the growth of its light commercial vehicle business. 

PVI specialises in the conversion of commercial vehicles to natural gas or electricity, and the acquisition means Renault will be able to step up the implementation of new technologies, especially in the field of electric LCV conversions.

Ashwani Gupta, SVP, LCV Division at Groupe Renault, said: ​“We are very pleased to welcome PVI’s team specialising in electric conversions to Groupe Renault.

“This acquisition is part of the group’s strategy to develop its business by proposing a complete range of electric LCVs coupled with connected services.

"As the number one European manufacturer of electric LCVs, this is a unique opportunity for our teams to work on the next generation of this type of car.

"Together we will continue to innovate to ensure increasing proximity with our business customers while addressing their every need.”

PVI has previously worked with Groupe Renault on the development and electrification of the upcoming Renault Master ZE.

This large van, which was unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show on January 13, 2017 and which is due to be launched before the end of 2017, will extend the group’s existing range of electric LCVs. The catalogue currently features four products.

This acquisition also includes Escal, a subsidiary in which PVI has a 95% stake.

Escal specialises in the distribution, installation and maintenance of security systems for lifting vehicles. Escal itself manages PVI's service, maintenance and mechanical integration activities.

Both PVI and Escal, with a combined workforce of 93 employees, are attached to the Groupe Renault’s LCV Division.