Renault in French evolution to Euro VI E
Renault Trucks has revised its heavy truck T, T High, C and K ranges to coincide with the introduction of the latest low-emission Euro VI E engines.
Improved aerodynamics and more sophisticated powerline management systems are claimed to reduce fuel consumption by three per cent on the new Evolution 2021 models.
These include a new version of the Optivision predictive cruise control system and an optimised cruise control system with two selectable driving modes.
‘Eco on’ is the default mode and optimises fuel consumption by adjusting acceleration, gear shifting, cruise control and deceleration, whereas ‘Eco off’ allows drivers to change the driving mode.
A new Pulse and Glide function further improves fuel consumption by maintaining the vehicle’s speed around the Cruise Control set point (+/- 2km/h).
T and T High models, designed for long-haul work, are fitted as standard with EU fuel economy category A tyres: the most efficient tyres on the market in terms of fuel economy.
The main external differences are new LED front lamps, which although smaller than the lights on the predecessor model, incorporate daytime running, main beam, fog and indicator functions. Night-time light output is increased threefold, with a whiter light closer to natural daylight, and the lifetime of the lamp is extended by up to 30 times compared to conventional incandescent bulbs. The wrap-around design improves side visibility.
There’s a new honeycomb grille, too, marking the biggest changes to Renault’s heavy trucks since the replacement of the Premium range in 2013. Inside the cab, there’s a new three-way adjustable steering column, a switch to push-button engine start-stop, and new seats with detachable washable covers. Two USB-C points are located in the lower dash to recharge phones and other devices.
In the sleeping area, the ‘Serenity’ bunk’s thickness has been increased by 13 per cent to 170 mm, and the number of springs doubled. A washable foam mattress topper can be added, and the mattress can be detached from its base to allow the use of fitted sheets. Two more USB-C points have been added to the bunk area, and noise insulation in the cab doors improved. The truck’s audio system and speakers are now sourced from French hi-fi manufacturer Focal.
Drivers also benefit from LED lamps which illuminate the door area when getting in and out of the vehicle at night. The parking brake is automatically activated if the driver leaves the cab without applying it.
Operators can specify a range of active and passive safety equipment including security door-locks, cameras, sensors and kerb-vision doors.
Evolution 2021 models will benefit from remote software updates in service to ensure the best performance for the work they undertake. Depending on usage and mileage, oil change intervals for vehicles fitted with 13-litre Euro VI E engines can be extended to 150,000 km or 18 months.
