Difference between nouveau and neuf

Question

Asked to translate, “L’Oréal are selling a new product,” the correct answer given is “L'Oréal vend un nouveau produit” I assume that this product is new on the market, in other words a new creation. Why then is the correct answer not, “produit neuf”?

Cécile Janty-Davies · Accepted Answer

Hi Alan, 
You will use 'neuf' for something 'brand new' in other words it has not belonged to anyone else.
So when a company launches a new product, it is new in the sense that it is different from all the others.

Renault sort un nouveau modèle électrique cette année = Renault is launching a new electric model this year 
J'ai acheté une Renault Zoë neuve = I have bought a brand new Renault Zoë

Take a look at the following lesson with lots more examples -
Neuf vs nouveau to say new in French
Hope this helps !