For the first half of 2011, the group reported a new sales record worldwide in first-half 2011, with 1.4 million units, up 1.9% on 2010.

International sales were up by 20.4%. In Brazil, the group reported a 24.6% increase in sales volumes while volumes were up 76% in Russia.

However in Europe passenger car sales were down 9.6% while sales fell 9.9% in France as the market and order take exceeded the group's forecasts while stock levels were low, leading to Renault being unable to 'deliver and register a sufficient number of vehicles'.

Looking to the second half of the year, the group is forecasting 3% to 4% growth in the global market in 2011 compared with 2010, despite an estimated 0% to 2% decline in the European market and a 4% to 6% fall in the French market year on year.

It added that the supply difficulties that have mainly affected Europe are expected to be gradually reduced starting in July.

Jérôme Stoll, executive vice president, sales and marketing and light commercial vehicles, said: 'Thanks to the strong order portfolio in Europe and the pursuit of our international sales offensive, the Renault group is forecasting a new sales record for the year as a whole. In Europe, the second half of the year will be marked by the launch of the first three vehicles in Renault’s electric range, Kangoo ZE, Fluence ZE and Twizy.'