Dacia is among the least automated production units of Renault worldwide. Until recently, relatively low labor costs did not require significant investments in automation.

“Manufacturers cannot count on low labor costs in Eastern Europe forever. An accelerated rise in personnel costs are leading us to speed up level of automation. We do not have many options, so we will have robots at Dacia as well,” Stroe added.

The company’s production capacity will rise to 320,000 units this year, up from 220,000 units in 2007.

Dacia’s investment program includes €150-160 million this year and a further €150-160 million in 2009, to develop production and sales infrastructure on external markets.

Renault, which took over Automobile Dacia in 1999, has invested €1.3 billion in Romania so far, according to Dacia representatives.

Stroe’s statement comes in the midst of a general strike byAutomobile Dacia personnel, who stopped work last Monday demanding better salaries.