Renault Dauphine: The French Compact That Conquered Brazil

In Brazil, the automotive industry was on the rise in the late 1950s.

A Willys-Overland of Brazil, established in the country since 1952, sought to diversify its product line beyond the Jeep family of utility vehicles.

Negotiations between Renault and Willys-Overland began shortly after the launch of the Dauphine in France.

In 1957 and 1958, the engineering teams from both companies collaborated to make the production of the Dauphine viable on Brazilian soil.

The goal was to start manufacturing in the second half of 1959.

In December 1959, the Renault Dauphine was officially launched in Brazil as a national model, manufactured by Willys under license and technical supervision from Renault.

Sales began in January 1960.

The Dauphine established itself as a milestone in the history of Renault in Brazil, being one of the brand's first models to be manufactured here.

It represents an era of innovation and accessibility in the automotive industry and continues to be remembered and admired by classic car enthusiasts.