Renault Trucks extends electric vehicle portfolio

Renault Trucks has announced the expansion of its electric vehicle offering in both the long-distance and urban segments.

The manufacturer has unveiled new versions of the Renault Trucks E-Tech T: the Renault Trucks E-Tech T 585 and the Renault Trucks E-Tech T 780, which can travel up to 600 km on a single charge.

“Designed to meet hauliers’ specific needs, the Renault Trucks E-Tech T 780 is focused on range and the Renault Trucks E-Tech T 585 on payload, while the Renault Trucks E-Tech T 540 4×2 remains dedicated to regional distribution,” said the company.

“The increased range of the Renault Trucks E-Tech T 780 and T 585 has been achieved by integrating an electric axle. The E-axle enables all parts of the powertrain – electric motors and transmission – to be grouped together at the vehicle’s rear. This architecture frees up space between the side members to accommodate additional battery packs.”

The new models are fitted with high-energy-density NCA (nickel, cobalt, aluminium) lithium-ion batteries, featuring a specific L-shape design to fit neatly in the new layout. Renault Trucks guarantees their performance up to 8 years or 1 million kilometres.

The Renault Trucks E-Tech T 585, which carries 585 kWh of battery capacity, can travel up to 460 km on a single charge, says the manufacturer, while offering the highest payload in this vehicle range.

Meanwhile the Renault Trucks E-Tech T 780, with 780 kWh of capacity,  can achieve a range of 600 km and is said to be designed for hauliers looking above all for maximum range.

“To get the most out of stops, both models are compatible with charging stations equipped with the ultra-fast Megawatt Charging System (MCS), up to 720 kW,” said Renault Trucks.

“These stations can provide up to 350 km of range in a 45-minute driver’s rest break. They can also be charged at a depot using the standard CCS (up to 350 kW).

“Alongside these developments, Renault Trucks is upgrading its current model, the Renault Trucks E-Tech T 540 4×2, which will now be able to travel up to 450 km on a single charge.

“Designed for long distances, the Renault Trucks 6×2 tractor versions E-Tech T 585 and T 780 provide optimal driving comfort, and thanks to their rear axle, these new models’ manoeuvrability is comparable with that of a 4×2 tractor version. This lightweight, steerable and liftable axle protects tyres during return trips at low load.”

The manufacturer also highlighted its range of connected and predictive services.

“The Optifleet fleet management solution, with its various modules, enables route planning, real-time vehicle tracking, performance analysis, and charging management, for simplified planning and monitoring,” it said.

“The Serenity Pack, a specific electromobility contract, ensures optimal use of electric trucks through enhanced tracking and personalised assistance provided by Renault Trucks experts during the first year of operation.

“The Driver App enables drivers to monitor charging status and remotely prepare their vehicle (pre-conditioning of the cab and batteries), so as to guarantee optimal availability before each assignment.

“Finally, the Renault Trucks E-Tech Programme consultancy service provides transport operators with access to electromobility experts and advanced tools (fleet and route analysis, site energy capacity assessment, range and CO2 savings simulations, etc.) to build a bespoke decarbonisation strategy.”

Available to order now, the three new models will be produced at the Renault Trucks plant in Bourg-en-Bresse, where vehicles in its heavy-duty EV range have been assembled since 2023.

Renault Trucks has also announced the launch of the E-Tech D14, a 14-tonne vehicle designed for city-centre distribution rounds.

With a 2.39-metre-wide chassis, a 3.8-metre wheelbase and a turning radius under 7.3 metres, it is said to be the most compact and manoeuvrable vehicle in the manufacturer’s electric range.

“It stands out as the ideal solution for deliveries in dense urban environments where space is limited,” said Renault Trucks.

“Its low load bed height makes it easier to perform repeated tasks, whether they involve dry or refrigerated goods distribution.  With a payload of 6.7 tonnes, it achieves an excellent trade-off between carrying capacity and agility.

“Finally, the Renault Trucks E-Tech D14 is the only truck in its category to feature full air suspension, both at the front and rear, providing optimal driving comfort in urban environments.”

Fitted with four LFP batteries providing a combined capacity of 176 kWh, the Renault Trucks E-Tech D14 offers a range of up to 220 km on a single charge, says the manufacturer,  and features a 43 kW AC on-board charger, to enable charging at alternating-current stations.

“The Renault Trucks E-Tech D14 is paired with a set of connected services designed to make operators’ day-to-day work easier.

“Drivers and fleet managers can remotely monitor charging data using the Driver App and plan their routes with the Optifleet Mission module, which come as standard. With the optional module Optifleet Charge, they can remotely control battery charging status and optimise charging cycles to maximise vehicle availability.”

The Serenity Pack and Renault Trucks E-Tech Programme consultancy service are also available with the E-Tech D14, which is now available to order.

Produced at the company’s plant in Blainville-sur-Orne, France, the new model means that the Renault Trucks electric distribution range is now available in 14, 16, 18 and 28 tonnes.