renault trucks t: at home on any terrain! · 2017-03-06 · optimummagazine – the renault trucks...

#1 – 2017

UNITED KINGDOM

RENAULT-TRUCKS.CO.UK

TESTIMONIAL

RENAULT TRUCKS K:

PLAYING A KEY ROLE IN GUINEA’S

MINING INDUSTRY

BEHIND THE SCENES

RENAULT TRUCKS T:

UNCHANGING VALUE

RENAULT TRUCKS T: AT HOME ON ANY TERRAIN!

2OPTIMUMMAGAZINE – The Renault Trucks magazine

T his first issue in 2017 gives us an opportunity

to explore the Renault Trucks off-road offering

and present the brand’s latest innovations.

Renault Trucks vehicles will take you on a fascinating

journey. A report from the mines in Guinea once again

demonstrates the Renault Trucks K’s robustness with

loads of up to 137 t. For its part, a Renault Trucks T

specialised in log transport will take you into the

Scottish Highlands, while the C range demonstrates

its outstanding on-road qualities in Algeria.

Our latest innovations proved to be compelling for many

visitors to our stand at the IAA trade show, while the

Renault Trucks T began to make a significant impact

on the used vehicle market in 2017.

We hope you will enjoy reading this latest issue!

Bruno Blin

President of Renault Trucks

REPORT

Highlands – Renault Trucks T:

at home on any terrain!

p P. 14

Editorial

Contents

TESTIMONIAL

Renault Trucks K: playing

a key role in Guinea’s

mining industry

p P. 4

BEHIND THE SCENES

Renault Trucks T:

unchanging value

p P. 18

PRODUCT

Optivision: a new tool

for reducing consumption

p P. 8

INTERVIEW

Renault Trucks C for

long-distance haulage:

designed to last

p P. 20

TECHNOLOGY

Urban Lab 2: a hub of

innovative technology

p P. 9

DIGITAL

The latest additions

to the Renault Trucks

digital universe

p P. 23

is published by Renault Trucks in more than 100 countries and 15 languages — Publication Director: Chrystèle Chef — chrystele.chef@renault–trucks.com — Editor-in-chief: Stéphanie Cascino, — Renault Trucks SAS with a capital of €50000000 — 954 506 077 RCS Lyon. ISSN 2262-8754 — Design and production: — Production follow-up: Yvan Cabut, Axel Garioud — Print process supervision:

Valérie Baugey, Christelle Baux — Photos: Yann Geoffray, Jane Stockdale, M. Winiarczyk/Havas Productions, Sidali Djenidi — Printing: Faurite — Legal deposit:

first quarter 2017 — Circulation: 145,000 copies. The texts and documents published in this issue may not be reproduced without the editor’s consent. Printed in France.

3 OPTIMUMMAGAZINE – The Renault Trucks magazine

SPORT

ALPINES CARRIED BY RENAULT TRUCKS T VEHICLES

The Signatech Alpine

racing team opted for

Renault Trucks T vehicles

to carry its racing cars and

technical equipment for

the Le Mans 24 Hour event.

A mission demanding

technology, performance

and reliability – key

values shared by both

Renault Trucks and the

racing team.

In 2017, out of the three training programmes

organised for WFP teams in Africa, two will

be devoted to training local instructors.

To this end, the WFP has identified people

in the field, whose mission will be to continue

the work initiated by Renault Trucks in order

to provide technical and mechanical

knowledge and skills to their colleagues

on a long-term basis.

IN BRIEF

EDITOR’S CHOICE AWARD

A NEW PRIZE FOR THE RENAULT MASTERThe Renault Master was designated

winner of the Trade Van Driver

magazine’s 2016 Editor’s Choice

Award. Selected by a jury

of experts and readers, this award

acknowledges both the qualities

of the vehicle itself and the

Renault Trucks network, which

provides support to clients owning

Renault Masters.

The IAA 2016 trade show, which was held in Hanover (Germany) from 22 to 29 September,

gave Renault Trucks an opportunity to present its entire range. Nine vehicles were

displayed altogether, including the Renault Trucks High Edition and a special version

of the T 520. This allowed visitors to fully appreciate the comfort and ergonomic attention

to detail on board the vehicles. Simulators were also on hand to give them the feeling

of rally driving as if they were on board an MKR team Renault Trucks K.

IAA 2016

RENAULT TRUCKS TAKE PRIDE OF PLACE

RENAULT TRUCKS SQUARE

A NEW

TEST TRACK

On this historic site for the brand

and in front of the Renault Trucks

Square – the brand’s showroom

inaugurated in March 2015 – a new

test track has been built for

demonstrating the range’s vehicles

in action. This new track will allow

clients and journalists visiting

the Renault Trucks Square

to try out the vehicles at the wheel,

complementing their visit

of the exhibition area.

RESEARCH

INNOVATION

REWARDED

The JEC prize for innovation was won by

Renault Trucks, Solvay and their partners

in the “automotive structural parts”

category. Working together, they created

a forward structural module based

on a thermoplastic composite material.

This was designed with the purpose

of reducing vehicle weight and thereby

cutting fuel consumption and

CO2 emissions.

WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME

THE PARTNERSHIP EXPANDS


RENAULT TRUCKS K

PLAYING A KEY ROLEIN GUINEA’S MINING INDUSTRY


What services does UMS provide?

Fadi Wazni — United Mining Supply is

specialised in logistics and transport

for mining and oil companies.

We provide integrated turnkey logistics

solutions for the most complex haulage

assignments. I am the founder and

managing director of the Boké mining

company, one of the largest bauxite

mines in Guinea, which holds the

world’s largest reserves of this

mineral.

What are driving conditions like

in the Republic of Guinea?

F. W. — Very complicated. First of all,

the country’s heavy rainfall during

six months of the year damages the roads

and slows down all traffic. Then, during

the dry season, trucks have to deal with

another enemy; dust. It gets everywhere,

and can even shorten an engine’s

operational life. Then there is the

country’s relief, which makes traffic

conditions even worse. Finally, the very

nature of working in a mine, with its

rugged, often muddy and slippery terrain,

really puts trucks to the test. This is why

it is absolutely essential for us to be able

to count on our vehicles’ reliability and

robustness.

Why did you choose the

Renault Trucks K?

F. W. — When we were only involved

in standard transport, we had several

To underpin its growth,

the Guinean UMS mining

company has opted for the

Renault Trucks K. Its managing

director, Fadi Wazni, explains

his choice, driven by the

vehicle’s qualities – reliability,

robustness and cost

efficiency – with the added

advantage of benefiting from

the service provided by the

local Renault Trucks dealer.

TESTIMONIAL


3 QUESTIONS FOR

Bah Alimou Yali, TGH Plus Industries

Can you tell us about your activity?

B. A. Y. — I am the managing director of

TGH Plus Industries, a haulage company

in Guinea and the exclusive Renault Trucks

dealer for Guinea and Sierra Leone since

2010. Our clients work in the hydrocarbon,

building and mining (iron and bauxite)

sectors.

What are the special aspects of your

activity in Guinea?

B. A. Y. — Guinea is characterised by wide

differences in relief, which complicates

haulage operations. Furthermore, the air

is very dusty. Carriers therefore need

robust and reliable trucks backed by

flawless service. The Renault Trucks K

doesn’t break down and therefore

needs no repair. With a truck like that,

our customers make money.

How do you position yourself

on the market?

B. A. Y. — These days, we don’t just sell

a truck. We sell a service which includes an

aftersales contract lasting throughout the

vehicle’s entire life. It’s a partnership between

the manufacturer who designed the vehicle,

the dealer who provides the service and

the customer who uses the truck.

different types of vehicles in our fleet.

In particular, these included the

Renault Premium and Renault Kerax.

Then, when we got into mining,

we looked for the vehicle best adapted

to the working conditions imposed by the

country and the mining industry. After

careful consideration, we chose the

Renault Trucks K. We ordered 11, and then,

as the mine expanded, we ordered

a further 20. And that’s only the beginning!

This decision was based on two key

criteria. First of all, the vehicle’s long life

and reliability. Then came the question

of service. In a region as isolated as ours,

we must be able to count on the availability

of parts, an efficient maintenance service

and the understanding of our suppliers.

Via their local representative TGH Plus,

Renault Trucks was able to meet all these

challenges flawlessly.

In what way did the Renault Trucks K

meet your needs?

F. W. — Even if these vehicles have only

been in service for a few months, we can

already say that they are extremely

reliable. Despite the severe working

conditions. From a technical point of view,

the components are very robust: chassis

thickness, automated manual gearbox and

the entire driveline overall which enables

the vehicle to overcome the most

challenging obstacles. The highly powerful

engine can comfortably draw two trailers

with a load of around 83 m³. Its design

attracts a lot of attention, including my

own! It combines robustness and

reliability. When the first Renault Trucks K

went into service in the mine, everyone

stopped working to watch it in action with

its double trailer. Absolutely spectacular!

Which Renault Trucks services do you

benefit from?

F. W. — Even before making any purchase,

the dealer helped us define the technical

configuration that would exactly meet our

needs. We also set up an instructional

program, which is vital. It’s always a

delicate matter to entrust a machine of this

value, particularly with a double trailer, to

a driver unfamiliar with it. Renault Trucks

met this difficult challenge with a great

deal of dedication, resulting in positive

results. As far as maintenance is

concerned, as soon as the first orders

were placed, Renault Trucks set up

a fully operational workshop on our site.

A winning move that ensures servicing and

parts will always be available, enabling us

to minimise costs. Renault Trucks has now

become a genuine partner in our success

and our growth.

TESTIMONIAL

THE RENAULT TRUCKS K: COMFORTABLE STRENGTH

I carry bauxite from the mine to the port, a distance of around 26 km and do four or five round trips

a day from 7 AM to 6 PM. I joined the company at the same time as the Renault Trucks K vehicles arrived.

The cab is really comfortable, all the controls are within easy reach and I feel safe inside. Thanks to the

suspension, which absorbs the jolts, I can work in the mine without getting tired. The gearbox, rear axle

and engine really give an impression of power and robustness, even when I’m carrying loads of 137 t over

muddy and rough terrain. The instruction I was given taught me how to get the most out of the truck, and

now I’m the one who trains all the drivers at UMS. They have to apply my instructions to the letter. If they

don’t, they’re not allowed inside a Renault Trucks K.”

Sayon Oularé, driver instructor at UMS for the past year

137tonne load carried

by the Renault Trucks K.


A ROBUST VEHICLE

Technically,

the components are

very robust: chassis

thickness, automated

manual gearbox and the

entire driveline overall

enable the vehicle

to overcome the most

challenging obstacles.”

Fadi Wazni, Managing Director

of UMS

UMSHOLDING: UMS (United Mining Supply).

FIELD OF OPERATIONS: Republic of Guinea.

ACTIVITIES: services and supply for mining and oil companies.

1, 400: the workforce employed by the Group.

1,300: the number of vehicles in the fleet.

+ Easy access to all units

on the chassis to make

maintenance easier.

+ Cyclonic air filter adapted

to cope with highly dusty

environments

+ Vehicle designed for mine,

quarry, haulage and heavy

earthmoving applications.

+ The Optidriver feature

manages gear changes

adapted to the vehicle’s load.

+ The power to comfortably

pull a double trailer with

a load of around 83 m³.

+ Great reliability: the

“off-road function” and the

automated manual gearbox

reduce wear on the brakes

and engine.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES


PRODUCT

OPTIVISION

A NEW TOOL FOR REDUCING CONSUMPTION

Launched in 2016, Optivision is the new system designed to reduce fuel consumption.

This predictive speed regulator, with a GPS connection, enables driving strategy to be

adapted according to variations in terrain relief.

5. DOWNHILL

When going downhill, the system

gradually adjusts the speed by

means of the retarder or engine

brake. Optivision controls the

speed throughout the downhill

phase to put off any acceleration

for as long as possible.

4. DOWNHILL-UPHILL

If a hill immediately follows a descent,

the system makes the most of the Optiroll

feature, using the inertia created by the vehicle

during its descent to climb the next hill. 2. CLIMBING

During the climb,

Optivision avoids

ineffective changedowns

when approaching

the summit.

3. AT THE TOP OF THE HILL

At the summit, Optivision avoids

any unnecessary acceleration and

uses Optiroll to make the most

of the vehicle’s inertia, while

gradually picking up speed as

soon as it begins going downhill.

1. AT THE START

OF A GRADIENT

When approaching a slope,

the system increases the vehicle’s

speed to benefit from kinetic energy,

while maintaining a high gear

as long as possible.

Optivision uses road

topography data to optimise

gear changes. The vehicle,

or another vehicle fitted

with the Optivision system,

records the details of every road it uses

via a sensor and stores the information

for future use. This data is combined

with the vehicle’s GPS geographical

coordinates. In order for the system

to record the GPS data and the road’s

topographical details, a certain number

of conditions are required: gearbox

in automatic mode, Eco Cruise Control

activated (Eco-Level 1 or 2) and

vehicle speed higher than 60 kph.

With Optivision, fuel consumption

can be lowered by up to 5%. Wear on

brakes and tyres is also reduced.

Up to 5%savings in fuel consumption.


TECHNOLOGY

URBAN LAB 2: A HUB OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIESAs part of the EDIT (Efficient Distribution Truck) collaborative project, Renault Trucks is presenting

Urban Lab 2. This Renault Trucks D Wide Euro 6 is an experimental vehicle. It brings together innovative

technologies to reduce fuel consumption by 13% compared to a production vehicle and is aiming to offer

affordable innovations on a distribution vehicle between now and 2020.

DRIVING AIDS

Specific navigation software offers drivers the

most practical and fuel-efficient routes by

calculating both journey time and consumption.

The vehicle can also be connected to road

infrastructures to optimise synchronisation with

green traffic lights, thereby avoiding energy-

hungry stop and restart phases.

STOP & START AND MICRO-HYBRID

Stop & Start technology has been associated with a

“micro-hybrid” system. Using a very powerful starter-alternator,

this feature makes it possible to recover energy, such as that

generated by easing up on the pedal or braking. This energy

can be used to power the vehicle’s electrical accessories

or reduce demands for mechanical power from the internal

combustion engine.

IMPROVED AERODYNAMICS

To reduce aerodynamic drag, the refrigerated body has been

fitted within the dimensions of the wheelbase to free up space

above, lower body height and optimise airflow. The vehicle’s

sides are fitted with lateral textile deflectors coated in PVC.

Finally, the streamlined wheels and rear deflectors enhance

lateral airflow, while the rearview mirrors are replaced

by a system of sleek cameras and monitoring screens

inside the cab.

TYRES

In a partnership with Michelin, the Urban Lab 2

has developed energy efficient tyres with lower

rolling resistance. The use of Infini-Coil

technology ensures the product’s durability and

safety. The self-regenerating tread guarantees

long-lasting grip, while the use of silica

to reinforce the tread surface improves

the compromise between tyre life and

tyre resistance.

PARTNERS

• Valeo.

• Lamberet.

• Michelin.

• BeNomad.

• INSA Lyon (LaMCoS).

• IFSTTAR (LICIT).


PROUD TRADITION

Producing more uisge beatha - Gaelic for the

Latin aqua vitae or water of life that evolved

into usky and then whisky - than any other

region in Scotland, these distilleries use the

same pure spring water sources that have

been drawn on for centuries. And if you’re a

whisky connoisseur, you’ll know that Speyside

malts are known for their smooth, elegant and

complex style that the plentiful water from

local springs and burns helps to produce.

PERFECT LOCATION

Fochabers, which lies midway between

Aberdeen and Inverness on the A96 trunk

road, is ideally located to serve the area’s

thriving whisky industry.

As well as crystal-clear water, best quality

barley is essential for the region’s whisky

DUNCAN GRAIN LOCATION: Gordon Castle Farm, Fochabers, Morayshire, Scotland.

OPERATION: bulk haulage specialising in grain trading and distillery work; grain farming.

YEARS IN BUSINESS: 40+.

EMPLOYEES: 12-15.

FLEET SIZE: 8.

KEY GRAIN TRADING SEASON: August – September.

BULK HAULAGE: all year round.

TESTIMONIAL

DUNCAN GRAIN

WHISKY GALOREOn the east bank of the River Spey, ten miles from Elgin, you’ll find the charming village

of Fochabers. We’re in the heart of the Speyside region, home to around half

of Scotland’s whisky distilleries that are situated in the beautiful glens surrounding

the river. Up here in the north of Scotland, you’re never far from a distillery,

from small-scale producers to some of the most famous whisky brands in the world.

production. A thriving family-run bulk haulage

business with 40 years’ experience

specialising in grain trading and distillery

work, Duncan Grain (Fochabers) Ltd plays

a key role in the whisky supply chain. Its fleet

of 8 trucks collects grain from local malting

facilities – where the barley is first steeped

in water and spread out on malting floors to

germinate – and delivers it on to the distilleries

across the North of Scotland.

“Whisky production is a serious business here

so we need trucks that are reliable and come

with an excellent back up service,” says Owner

and Director, Abby Duncan.

The latest addition to the company’s fleet is

a 44-tonne Range T 480 tag axle, supplied by

Renault Trucks Scotland, with Wilcox step frame

tipping trailer. The tag axle improves access in

and out of farms where access can be tight.

COMFORT AND SAFETY

Whilst the scenery is spectacular, driving up

and down the glens demands robust trucks

that deliver excellent traction and pulling

power in all weather conditions. To keep the

driver happy, the Range T is specified with

Renault Trucks’ Comfort cab. Safety is

a priority for the driver and road users alike,

and Duncan Grain’s truck is equipped with the

Protect pack, which includes adaptive cruise

control, additional indicator lights and Xenon

headlights. A Light Fix light bar beams

brightly on unlit farm roads providing extra

illumination during Scotland’s darker

winter evenings.

FAMILY BUSINESS

“We are a small family-run business, so truck

robustness and dealer service were key when

we started thinking about getting a new


50 distilleriesPlaying host to over half the distilleries in Scotland, Speyside has the largest

concentration of malt whisky producers in Scotland, including the Highlands,

the Lowlands and the island of Islay.

Duncan Grain’s 44 tonne Range T 480 collects

grain from local malting facilities for delivery

to distilleries across the North of Scotland.

vehicle. We’ve been running Renault Premiums

for several years and we’ve always been happy

with them, so when we decided to get a new

vehicle the Range T was the logical next step

for our business. We certainly have been

impressed; the extra space in the cab has

gone down really well with the drivers too and

they have commented on how comfortable

they are to drive,” Abby adds.

The new Range T is on a 5-year full repair and

maintenance contract with all work being

carried out by Renault Trucks’ approved agent

Elgin Truck and Van Centre, a family business

that has been providing top class service to the

commercial vehicle industry in the North of

Scotland for over 25 years.

BACK-UP SUPPORT

Having run Renault trucks successfully for

over nine years, the proven quality and

reliability of the vehicles was a key factor in

Duncan Grain’s purchase decision, but it was

the excellent back-up from Elgin Truck and

Van that was the real driving force in selecting

the Range T. “The top class service provided

by Elgin Truck and Van Centre has also made

the difference to our business,” says Abby.

“They deliver a quality service and the

highly-experienced technicians are excellent,

making sure that downtime is minimised and

the trucks are on the road delivering grain to

our customers efficiently and on time.”

MORE THAN THE TRUCK

For Calum Aitken, Renault Trucks Scotland,

the strength of the dealer network is vital.

“We understand that a vehicle purchase is

more than just buying a truck,” he says.

“It’s great to hear that Duncan Grain can rely

on the exceptional service and back-up they

receive from Elgin Truck and Van and that

this was an important consideration

in their purchasing decision. In Scotland,

Renault Trucks’ network of strategically-

located dealers work hard to ensure that our

trucks – and our people – keep customers

like Duncan Grain on the road.”


What gives you the

manoeuvrability

of a six-wheeler with

the load capacity

of an eight-wheeler?

Somerset’s RH &

AJ Bateman has taken delivery of the UK’s first

Renault Trucks Range C Tridem 8x4 tipper to

do just that. The 32-tonne Range C 460 with

factory-fitted extra axle adaption and Aliweld

insulated tipping body is used for a mix

of traditional six and eight-wheeler work,

delivering sand and aggregates to customers

across the South West, often to tight access

locations. “The Tridem gives us extra load

capacity, which helps with the profitability of

our business and, crucially, it gives us better

manoeuvrability and accessibility into more

challenging places where an 8-wheeler would

usually struggle – for example, accessing

equestrian arenas at the back of properties,”

explains Director Russell Bateman. Supplied

by Renault Trucks South West, the Range C

Tridem with lifting rear-steer axle, is the latest

replacement for RH & AJ Bateman’s 18-strong

fleet and follows many years of successfully

running Landers as well as Range Ts and Cs.

“We’ve been really happy with both the service

and performance from Renault Trucks,”

Russell says. “The Tridem was a bit of an

experiment for us as we’ve previously had

a drawbar, but it’s already been used for

everything and been everywhere. It’s

performed really well.”

The Bruton-based family-run business

splits its time between its own operations

and franchise work for local quarries.

Health & Safety always comes first for the

FORS-registered company that has achieved

Silver accreditation. As well as improved site

access, the manoeuvrability advantage of the

Range C Tridem’s rear-lifting axle keeps the

truck closer to the kerb than a traditional 8x4

when turning, reducing the high-risk gap for

cyclists to get caught between the truck and

a left hand turn.

Supplying the UK’s first Tridem tipper was a bit

of a coup for Roger Millet of Renault Trucks

South West. He says: “We’ve worked with

RH & AJ Bateman for several years, so we

understand their operation. We listened

carefully to their requirements for additional

capacity and increased manoeuvrability – and

the Range C Tridem is delivering.”

At a glittering gala dinner,

Approved Renault Trucks dealer

Sparks Commercial Services

was crowned Aftersales,

Workshop and Maintenance

Provider of the Year at the

2016 Commercial Motor Dealer Awards.

On receiving the award, a delighted Michael

Sparks said: “To win in the face of such stiff

competition from across the UK is an

incredible achievement. This award is about

delivering the best customer service in

the UK; at Sparks Commercials our

The UK’s first Renault Trucks Range C Tridem tipper is already improving access for aggregates

and sand supply specialist, RH & AJ Bateman.

ACCESS ALL AREAS

Winner of the 2016 Commercial Motor Dealer Awards ‘Aftersales Workshop

and Maintenance Provider of the Year’, Sparks Commercial

Services is recognised for consistently delivering

outstanding aftersales service and customer care.

AFTERSALES AWARD FOR SPARKS

COMMERICAL SERVICES

TESTIMONIAL

Where an eight wheeler might

struggle, the Range C 460 Tridem

delivers better manoeuvrability

and accessibility.


DURABILITY AND PAYLOADThe new Range Ds are fitted with a whole

vehicle type approved Transloader platform

body, designed for maximum durability

combined with best possible payload,

plus FORS side view camera system and

detachable fall arrest.

The Palfinger PK13001A cranes are ideally

suited for builders’ merchants’ needs with

advanced lifting capacity, endurance and low

self-weight to maximise payload. The crane

has an industry-leading stand-up control

station with variable force field safety system

which allows it to slew overhead safely.

London Reclaimed Brick Merchants runs

three 26-tonne Range D 26 Wide 6x2 R320 E6s

to transport bricks from demolition sites in

London and the Home Counties to its depots in

North West London and Buckinghamshire.

Here bricks are sorted for reclamation or

recycling before being delivered out to building

sites across the South East. Part of a fleet of

six, these are the first Renault trucks to join

this specialist operation.

“Our trucks spend most of their time on

challenging London roads and accessing

building sites, so ground clearance and

manoeuvrability are crucial,” says Transport

Manager, Stuart Wilbraham. “The Range D

allows us to go pretty much anywhere in

London and the vehicle’s rear-steer is perfect

for corners in the back streets.”

Delivering in built-up areas means sharing

congested city streets with cyclists and

pedestrians, as well as other road users.

Stuart adds: “Safety is paramount when driving

in London and both the Range Ds and Transloader

bodies have been designed to exceed the

current FORS legislation with safety features

including camera and video recording system,

special mirrors and vision glass in the passenger

door so the driver can see the nearside clearly.”

For London Reclaimed Brick Merchants, with 75 years’ experience in

reclaimed bricks, timber and stone, the Renault Trucks Range D is the ideal

truck for delivering to building sites across the city.

BUILT FOR BUSINESS

customers always come first. By doing the

simple things right, keeping customers

informed throughout, we deliver exceptional

service, every day. It’s a team effort, everyone

at Sparks plays their part, and this

award is a reflection of their commitment.

We couldn’t be prouder!”

Judges were looking for successful

maintenance and repair delivery, long-term

customer relationships and bespoke

aftersales packages.

“Sparks Commercials are very worthy

winners,” said Nigel Butler, Commercial

Director, Renault Trucks. “Warmest

congratulations to Julie, Mike and their team.

It’s great to see a Renault Trucks dealer being

recognised for aftersales excellence and

workshop performance, which has been

a core focus for the whole Renault Trucks

network.”

Ready for London’s busy streets, the Range D with Transloader platform body puts safety first.

Excellent manoeuvrability and ground clearance

are essential for accessing building sites.

Pictured (L-R): Andrew Gibson (B2B Marketing

Manager UK – Shell Lubricants), Mike Spark

(Owner – Sparks Commercial Services),

Matt Spark (Trainee Director – Sparks

Commercial Services) and Andy Salter

(Managing Director – Road Transport Media).


Comfortable, fuel efficient and reliable. We know how well the Renault Trucks T performs

on the road. But it performs equally well “off-road”, on the challenging surfaces and rugged

relief of the Scottish Highlands.

HIGHLANDS

RENAULT TRUCKS T: AT HOME ON ANY TERRAIN!


REPORT

In the north of Scotland, the Highlands

face the Atlantic Ocean on the West and

the North Sea on the East. Between

the two, the relief is made up of

a succession of hills and mountains,

which give the region its name.

As it is relatively close to the Arctic Circle,

its winters can be particularly harsh

with frequent snowfalls from the end

of September onwards.

The EM&T Rapson haulage company is

located at Helmsdale, a village on the east

coast of Sutherland. One year ago, Tommy

Rapson and his partners purchased a 44 t

Renault Trucks T 520. “We needed a robust

and powerful vehicle capable of operating

on all types of terrain under difficult

weather conditions.” In the Highlands, these

elevated regions with their many lochs

(lakes), it’s the geography that dictates the

speed of the journey. You can forget about

straight, open roads and must get used

to slow speeds, roundabout routes and

deviations on the single track roads with

their “passing places”; specific spots where

two vehicles can pass each other.

A ROBUST AND COST

EFFICIENT VEHICLE

EM&T Rapson is a breakdown assistance

and repair company, also specialised

in the timber haulage industry. “We began

our business several years ago with five

vehicles carrying wood to various different

EM&T RAPSONFOUNDED: 1901.

LOCATED: Scotland, United Kingdom.

ACTIVITIES: haulage, breakdown assistance and repairs, specialised in the timber (logging) industry.

8: number of staff.

5: number of vehicles.

500,000: number of kilometres covered per year.

Tommy Rapson, managing partner of EM&T Rapson.


REPORT

sites in the region,” explains Tommy

Rapson. "We have a diversified fleet,

enabling us to meet the various conditions

and rules governing log transport, with

some vehicles better suited to the narrow

roads which vehicles with caterpillar tracks

cannot use.”

One year ago, when looking for a new

vehicle for carrying logs, Tommy Rapson

heard about the Renault Trucks range.

“The good reputation enjoyed by the vehicle

and the manufacturer, as well as the fact

that there was a dealer in Inverness,

capable of providing reliable assistance,

persuaded us to buy the Renault Trucks T.”

And despite the difficult conditions they

work under, he reconfirms the vehicle’s

reputation for low consumption. “It is very

fuel efficient. One day, it covered the same

route as another vehicle and consumed 50 L

of Diesel less after carrying six loads!”

A FLAWLESS RUN

Scott Middleton, 35 years old, drives a

Renault Trucks T. For him, it’s a second

home. “I cover between 100,000 and

120,000 km a year, 30% to 40% off road with

the remainder on tar.” Scott’s day begins at

6 AM. He goes into a wood with a crane and

loads 25 t into his trailer. “I then go to a local

sawmill or a shredding plant devoted to

generating electricity. I unload in factories

or ports and then go back to the wood to

reload. I do two or three round trips every

day.” Scott is not afraid of using superlatives

when he asserts that, “This truck is an

outstanding vehicle.” He adds, “I can drive

longer, further and use less fuel than my

previous vehicle. It has never disappointed

me on road or off-road. Particularly on

long, difficult gradients, on muddy ground

and under all weather conditions. Once the

vehicle is loaded, I must push its

capabilities as far as possible when I’m on

some dangerous routes.” Yet, despite these

extreme conditions, the Renault Trucks T

has never let him down. “We just carry out

the usual monthly checks, and everything is

fine,” adds Tommy Rapson. Another major

asset is the comfort in the cab. “For us, it’s

very important for drivers to be satisfied

with their vehicles, for it isn’t easy to find

the right kind of people for these

assignments. It’s an excellent argument

for attracting motivated drivers who will,

in turn, satisfy our clients. This truck

has proved to be cost efficient because

of its low fuel consumption and total lack

of downtime.”

THE DRIVER’S OPINION

Scott Middleton, Renault Trucks T driver.

“I sleep in the Renault Trucks T bed four

nights a week, and I always sleep very well,

whatever the season. The seats are also very

comfortable, ventilated in the summer and

heated in the winter. Getting into and out

of the cab are made easier by the two steps,

the grip bars are in the right position and

when I have to get up onto the platform

behind the cab and work the crane, access

is also very easy. The Renault Trucks T is an

excellent working tool that gives a feeling of

power and robustness. Reliable and secure,

you can drive along dangerous roads with

perfect confidence, whatever the weather

conditions (snow or ice). When I use the

speed regulator and a car pulls out ahead,

the vehicle automatically adapts with the

distance warning. I wouldn’t change this

truck for anything else in the world!”

Watch the video

on the Renault Trucks T

in the Highlands.


The crane loads up to 25 t

in the back of the trailer.


BEHIND THE SCENES

Tested during the development

phase over 10 million km under

extreme conditions (from –40°C

to +60°C), the Renault Trucks T,

now available on the used

vehicle market, have not lost

any of their initial qualities. To earn the

International Truck of the Year Award in

2015, they certainly had to prove their worth!

MATERIALS THAT LAST

The driver and passenger seats undergo

endurance tests simulating 10 years of

getting into and out of the cab to check the

resilience of the stitching, leather or fabrics.

The 3D fabrics’ advanced technology played

an important role in creating the textiles

used for the ventilated and heated seats,

woven so that air can pass through them,

allowing the material to “breathe”.

The choice of finishes for the steering

wheel and dashboard is also essential.

The plastics must be able to resist wear,

impacts and scratches over time.

The Renault Trucks T designers’ choice

of the honeycomb grain for the vehicle was

inspired by solutions used in the world of

luggage, whose products are often badly

treated, while being handled many times,

particularly in airports.

RESISTANCE TO THE RIGOURS

OF CLIMATE AND THE OPEN ROAD

Exterior parts must be able to stand up

to the most extreme conditions: rain, sun,

frost, wind, hail, etc.

The anti-gravelling test measures

resistance to impacts: pebbles are

projected onto the exterior parts at a certain

speed and at varying temperatures. The test

results are then checked to ensure they

meet the strict requirements defined in the

vehicle’s specifications, which sets limits

on the number of impacts per square

centimetre, and the maximum size of each

one. For the plastic parts on the front,

a flexible material (polypropylene) was

preferred to a breakable material so that

resistance to impacts could be improved.

During the sunlight exposure and

anticorrosion tests, parts’ resistance

to bleaching and deterioration caused by

saline fog are measured. For the latter test,

the metal parts are left in a chamber with

a very high level of salinity for several

weeks.

The powertrain enables the T range to fulfil

its mission beyond 1.6 million kilometres

thanks to various engine checking

operations which are carried out before

they are fitted to the chassis.

In this way, ensuring the resilience of

internal and external powertrain parts is an

ongoing priority, guaranteeing the quality,

robustness and therefore the value

of Renault Trucks T vehicles, both new

and pre-owned.

Launched in 2013, the Renault Trucks T began appearing on the European used market

in 2016. Robust, comfortable and offering outstanding performance, these vehicles were

designed to guarantee long-term superior quality and offer clients high resale value.

RENAULT TRUCKS T

UNCHANGING VALUE

A NEW LABEL

FOR RENAULT TRUCKS

The T range has now been given

the Renault Trucks’s Selection label.

This stands for Renault Trucks’

commitment to a manufacturer’s

12 or 24 month guarantee of the

powertrain including towing

insurance. The availability of the

latest technological options

(Eco Cruise Control and Optifleet)

enables new customers to optimise

their driving and fuel consumption.

IAN NISH, FEEDBACK FROM AN OWNER CUSTOMER OF A USED RENAULT TRUCKS T

Our fleet is made up of 45 vehicles, including 25 Renault Trucks.

We’ve been working with Renault Trucks since 1998 and have always been

satisfied by the vehicles’ reliability and quality of service provided.

In 2015, we purchased two new Renault Trucks T 6x2 vehicles, which cover

150,000 km per year on average. In August 2016, we ordered three used

vehicles with the Selection label that had 200,000 km on the clock after

two years’ service. We have already had excellent feedback from the

drivers in terms of reliability, robustness, comfort and power. What’s more,

they use around 15% less fuel than Euro 5 vehicles, irrespective of the

route they have to take.”

Ian Nish, Managing Director of EuroscotRentals

(vehicle rental company) at Coatbridge (Scotland)


Particular attention is paid to the choice of materials.

Anticorrosion test. Cab ergonomics test. Door opening and cab tipping operations are

reproduced up to 2,500 times in succession.


Can you tell us about Numilog’s

business?

Safi Lazreg, 49 ans, Numilog’s

Managing Director — Founded in 2007,

Numilog, a subsidiary of the Cevital

Group, provides its clients with global

logistics and haulage solutions. It is the

leading company of its kind in Algeria,

and our aim is to be positioned as a key

element in the logistics chain, helping

our clients expand their businesses.

We provide services adapted to all fields

of distribution. This ranges from picking

up goods right through to distributing

products, including storing them.

Thanks to a capacity of up to

150,000 palettes, of which 35,000 are in

controlled temperature environments.

We have three logistics platforms

(in Oran, Constantine and Bouira) with

a total storage area of 120,000 m²,

four transport agencies (in Algiers,

Béjaïa, Oran and Constantine) as well

as a network of 35 regional logistics

centres located throughout the country.

What kind of vehicles do you have

in your fleet?

S. L. — Altogether, we have some

650 vehicles, including 6 refrigerated rigids

for carrying foodstuffs. For more than

two years, we have been operating

336 Renault Trucks tractors and in addition,

bought another 50 Renault Trucks C

vehicles, delivered last May.

What kind of constraints do you have

to deal with?

S. L. — The state of the roads! The network

presents a great many difficulties. There is

only one motorway, linking the town of

Annaba, in the far east of the country,

to the town of Tlemcen in the extreme

west. The remainder is made up of national

and B roads, which are invariably hardly

usable. The weather conditions and the

country’s relief do not make our work as

hauliers any easier and regularly further

damage the state of the roads. Our vehicles

have quite a challenge to overcome. That’s

why robustness is one of the key factors

influencing our choice of tractors.

NUMILOGHOLDING: Cevital.

FOUNDED: 2007.

LOCATED IN: Algeria.

BUSINESS: logistics and transport solutions for the agro-food and domestic appliance sectors.

15,000: the Group’s workforce.

1,250: Numilog’s workforce.

650: the number of vehicles, including 386 Renault Trucks.

150,000: the number of kilometres covered per truck, per year.

COUNTRIES COVERED: Algeria for the food sector, Algeria and Tunisia for non-food products.

RENAULT TRUCKS C FOR

LONG-DISTANCE HAULAGE

DESIGNED TO LAST

Last May, Numilog, a subsidiary of the Cevital Group, a major logistics and haulage player

in Algeria, added 50 Renault Trucks C vehicles to its 600 plus fleet. Safi Lazreg, the company’s

managing director talks to us about Renault Trucks’ professionalism as well as this range’s

robustness and reliability.

INTERVIEW


Why did you choose Renault Trucks C

range?

S. L. — First of all, because of the

Renault Trucks C’s pulling power, which is

higher than any other vehicle of this type.

We have to bear in mind that transport

conditions in Algeria are even more

challenging than in some neighbouring

countries, such as Tunisia. But with the

The Renault Trucks C enables operators to provide uninterrupted service to its clients with perfect peace of mind.

The reinforced chassis is particularly suited to the country’s road conditions.

Renault Trucks C, we’ve never had any

problems, which means we can work

with peace of mind and provide our clients

with the service they need at all times.

It’s a very robust vehicle, with a reinforced

chassis, really well-suited to this

country’s weather and geographical

conditions.

Are your drivers given instruction

in eco-driving?

S. L. — Instruction has played – and is

still playing – a key role in improving our

drivers’ performance in terms of fuel

consumption, incident prevention

and vehicle maintenance. As far as

consumption is concerned, you might

think that in an oil producing country,


INTERVIEW

this is the least of our concerns. Think

again! Since January 2016, the price of

Diesel has gone up by 30%! I am therefore

very pleased with the performance

delivered by the Renault Trucks C.

Do you use the services provided by

Renault Trucks Algeria for maintaining

your vehicles?

S. L. — Yes, we have entrusted them

with the maintenance, overhauls and

any repairs our tractors might need.

Renault Trucks is the only manufacturer

with a large servicing network in Algeria,

enabling us to minimise any reduction

in capital value. We have our own

workshops, but they only take care of

straightforward maintenance and small

repairs.

Renault Trucks is a real partner for us,

dependable and available. Their teams

have a straightforward and pragmatic

approach, they know how to listen and

find solutions. Which is reassuring

and much appreciated as far as our

day-to-day relationships with them

are concerned.

The drivers are

very satisfied with the

Renault Trucks C. They

appreciate its robustness, but

also the driving comfort and

extremely well-equipped cab.

They fully adopt it, taking great

care, since they are aware

of the fact that a vehicle in good

condition and “gentle” driving are

essential factors for ensuring

both their own safety and that

of others.”

Safi Lazreg, managing director of Numilog

ALGERIA, A MAJOR CROSSROADS BETWEEN THE MEDITERRANEAN AND AFRICA

A genuine Mediterranean frontage

for the greater Maghreb and

sub-Saharan Africa, Algeria has

many significant assets capable

of stimulating its economic growth.

Over the last 15 years, public works

developments have been on the

increase in virtually all parts of

Algeria. Since 97% of transport takes

place by road, major construction

projects were launched to modernise

and extend the road network:

13,200 km of roads were built

between 2000 and 2014. Altogether,

the network covers 112,039 km

(including 29,573 km of trunk roads)

and incorporates over 4,910 bridges.

Sustained infrastructure

development

The road and rail transport

modernisation programme also plans

to build the East-West motorway

(1,216 km), the High Plateau motorway

(1,330 km), and a further 19,000 km

of roads.

Algeria will also be crossed from

North to South by the trans-Saharan

road, promoted by the government

to increase trade between the

six countries it crosses (Algeria, Mali,

Niger, Nigeria, Chad and Tunisia).

PRODUCT BENEFITS

THE RENAULT TRUCKS C: A CHASSIS FOR LONG-DISTANCE HAULAGE The Renault Trucks C was designed for long

journeys, often under difficult conditions. Its

chassis has been adapted for long distances,

while retaining the robustness built into

construction vehicles. Its unladen weight has

been optimised by fitting aluminium tanks

and rims to reduce weight and thereby offer

excellent payload capacity.

100 TGCW for heavy goods on-road

transport.


ONLINE AND OFFLINE

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SOCIAL NETWORKS

YOUTUBE

Renault Trucks offers its clients vehicles enabling them to expand their businesses. This film provides concrete proof that Renault Trucks’ latest vehicles are centres of profit , demonstrates the assets of the new C (construction) range compared to the previous Renault Trucks range and/or in comparison with its competitors.

TRUCKERS GALLERY

POSTED ON

TRUCKERSGALLERY.RENAULT-TRUCKS.COM

LKW UND OLDTIMER ALPINA,

RENAULT TRUCKS T, 2016

SENT BY AT RT

on 23/11/2016

truckersgallery.renault-trucks.com

DIGITAL

To download the app

Watch the

video

TWEETED DURING THIS QUARTER

@RenaultTrucksCo

03/12/2016 at 00:08

@Kleyntrucks

In the middle of the Veluwe woods,

you can find this great T.

5,000The number of subscribers to the

@RenaultTrucksCo Twitter account.

Available on

Renault Trucks is expanding its Optifleet onboard IT solution with

a new feature to complement truck drivers’ eco-driving tool.

This solution makes it possible for drivers to monitor and individually

assess how well they are

using their vehicles thanks

to an algorithm based on

Renault Trucks’ 20 years’

experience in economic

driving.

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renault trucks t: at home on any terrain! · 2017-03-06 · optimummagazine – the renault trucks...

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