Renault Nissan Technology & Business Centre India (RNTBCI) has launched Project Malar, a community initiative aimed at strengthening women’s economic independence through sustainable transport solutions. The name “Malar,” meaning “bloom” in Tamil, symbolizes the growth and transformation this project hopes to bring to 20 women from Chennai and Chengalpattu.
These women were selected through a detailed screening process involving applications, personal statements, and local engagement. RNTBCI is fully funding their development journey, offering skills and tools that pave the way toward financial self-reliance.
The program offers comprehensive and intensive training that covers essential areas such as road safety and driving, budgeting and money management, customer interaction and local marketing, navigation and route planning, as well as online safety and awareness. After successfully earning their driving licenses, each participant will be given an electric auto-rickshaw (E-Auto). Over the next 18 months, they’ll also receive mentorship, support in managing earnings, and practical financial advice, with the goal of generating at least ₹16,000 per month in income.
Participants will also open bank accounts linked to UPI platforms and are encouraged to save ₹1,500 monthly. This habit-building approach is designed to help them develop long-term financial stability. Project Malar also aligns with RNTBCI’s environmental objectives by promoting the use of electric vehicles, which contribute to cleaner air and quieter streets in busy urban neighborhoods.
This effort is part of the company’s broader focus on improving urban transport solutions and promoting community leadership by women. The goal is not only mobility, but also transformation through opportunity and responsibility.
“Progress means more when it includes everyone. Through Project Malar, we’re giving 20 women the training, resources, and electric vehicles they need to lead as local entrepreneurs,” said Debashis Neogi, Managing Director of Renault Nissan Technology & Business Centre India. “It’s a step forward in building sustainable and self-reliant communities under our ‘Our Neighbourhood’ initiative.”
Sneha D, District Collector of Chengalpattu, shared her support: “I commend Renault Nissan Tech for this thoughtful initiative. Project Malar is a meaningful effort to support women and I extend my best wishes to the recipients of these E-Autos.”
Renault Nissan Technology & Business Centre India (RNTBCI) serves as a vital innovation hub for the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. Located in Chennai, the center plays a crucial role in research, development, and digital transformation, supporting the Alliance’s global operations. RNTBCI is a cornerstone for engineering excellence, developing cutting-edge technologies for electric vehicles, connected mobility, and autonomous systems.
It also provides business support services like shared IT solutions and financial operations. By leveraging a talented workforce and fostering innovation, RNTBCI contributes significantly to advancing the Alliance’s vision of sustainable and customer-centric mobility.
