DVS developments from Renault Trucks
Renault Trucks has highlighted the role it is playing in helping fleet customers to adapt to London’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS) requirements.
“While the scheme has been challenging in many aspects, operators of Renault Trucks have been able to determine the DVS rating for their vehicles simply and to fit any ‘safe system’ equipment required to comply with regulations for vehicles with a zero-star rating,” said Renault Trucks.
“As the scheme is due to change in 2024, detailed design modifications are being made to enhance the direct vision of all Renault Trucks models. While some of these changes may have a modest impact and some may not be implemented before the threshold rises from one star to three stars, support will be offered to enable operators of vehicles with fewer than three stars to comply with TfL’s new regulations using the Progressive Safe System.”
Since DVS was introduced, one important change has been the introduction of the Low Entry Cab on Renault Trucks electric D E-Tech models, says the firm. This was developed around the needs of the refuse sector in particular – the first LEC refuse vehicles were introduced by the London Borough of Enfield in 2021 – but is 
available for any electric vehicle which features the D 2.3m cab. The LEC cab delivers a DVS rating of three or four stars based on the detailed specification, and the introduction of a full length glass ‘bus door’ option in 2023 will give these models the highest five-star rating.
When the DVS system was first introduced, most Renault Trucks operators stated that they prioritised the all-round performance of their vehicle over the DVS rating it achieved. Many were already fitting DVS-compliant camera systems for their own safety and/or insurance reasons, so were willing to add any remaining elements required to meet the DVS safe system standard. The company says it expects the same approach for operators of one- and two-star vehicles in 2024.
Andrew Scott, head of electric mobility and product development, observed: “Renault Trucks are designed to meet the varied needs of multiple operators in very different operations. As TfL’s Direct Vision Standard changes, we will continue to help operators make the most of their Renault Trucks, and to work with them to be compliant with the new DVS requirements.”
