Renault Trucks has produced an eight-wheeler which is a true multi-tasker
By Steev Hayes
Photography Renault Trucks
It only seems like yesterday Renault designed, built and launched a complete new line-up of heavy trucks to replace its Magnum, Premium (Premium Lander), Kerax and Midlum chassis. But that launch actually took place back in 2013! It was a bold move that required substantial investment.
Dubbed Range T (long haul), Range D (distribution), Range C (construction) and Range K (heavy-duty construction), Renault Trucks has produced a line-up of heavy trucks that will suit virtually any transport requirement.
Renault’s C-range is the replacement for its Lander model, although this has been extended to include a wider specification and variety of chassis options. There are two cab width options available for Range C – 2.3 m and 2.5 m – and both have the same levels of comfort as trucks designed for long-haul work. So they are of better quality and comfort than your average construction chassis. Renault uses rotating button controls rather than protruding switches inside the cab to increase comfort and ergonomics, and reduce the likelihood of the driver snagging on them while moving around.
Range C has Renault’s clever Optitrack system available for the front axle, which gives the option of temporary four-wheel drive. Range C chassis also feature cornering lights and Optidriver automated transmission as standard, plus an electric parking brake which
is applied automatically when the engine stops, and/or when the driver’s door is opened.
Outside, the cab has been designed for greater efficiency, with a screen raked to 12 degrees and a shape that is narrower at the front, so air drag is reduced and air penetration coefficient is improved by up to 12 per cent. The Range C is lighter and offers greater payload – up to 22.8 tonnes for an 8×4. An off-road mode is standard on the C-range.
Read the rest of this feature in the April 2015 issue of Trucking. Buy the magazine here
