Société de Véhicules Automobiles de Batilly
| Company type | Subsidiary |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | 1980 |
| Headquarters | Batilly , France |
| Products | Light commercial vehicles |
| Parent | Renault |
The Société de Véhicules Automobiles de Batilly (SoVAB) operates as a subsidiary under the French automobile manufacturer Renault. Founded in 1980, its primary role is to manage the light commercial vehicle production facility located in Batilly.
History
The initiative to develop the Batilly plant commenced in 1972 through Renault’s subsidiary Saviem, and progressed following the merger of Saviem with Berliet, which resulted in the creation of Renault Véhicules Industriels (RVI). The construction phase took place from 1976 until 1979. In 1980, Renault acquired a 25% interest from RVI, leading to the establishment of SoVAB. That same year marked the beginning of manufacturing the first-generation Renault Master. Subsequently, production expanded to include the first-generation Renault Trafic in 1981 and the Renault B in 1982.
In collaboration with General Motors, Renault introduced the Master II model in 1997, which was also sold under the Opel Movano name. Starting in 1995, the Batilly plant became the exclusive assembler for the Trafic I and its German equivalent, the Opel/Vauxhall Arena, following the closure of Chausson’s Creil facility. Production of the Trafic I ceased in 2000. When Renault divested RVI to Volvo in 2001, it maintained ownership of the Batilly site. The third generation of the Master model was launched at this location in 2010.
Facilities
Covering an area of 101 hectares, the SoVAB site includes 181,838 square meters of enclosed manufacturing space and operates a single production line. Vehicles produced here are distributed under several brands including Renault, Opel, Vauxhall, Nissan, and Renault Trucks. On June 13, 2013, SoVAB celebrated producing its two-millionth vehicle.
Additionally, SoVAB features a Renault Tech workshop occupying 6,800 square meters and staffed by 72 employees. This facility specializes in customizing premium utility vehicles.
Current Vehicles manufactured
- Renault Master III (2010−present)
Former Vehicles manufactured
- Renault Master/Renault Trucks B series/Renault Trucks Messenger (1980−1997)
- Renault Trafic (1981−2000)
- Renault Master II/Renault Trucks Mascott (1997−2010)