L aunched earlier this year the latest version of Renault's Maxter
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tipper, with steel instead of rubber suspension, is an important vehicle for the French manufacturer. It's the first Renault eight-wheeler to offer a heavy-duty offroad capability and sales are booming. Renault Trucks London says the Maxter is its top seller in the capital area.
Much of the vehicle's six-year development period was spent refining the chassis, suspension and steering systems. Ground clearance was perhaps the single most important design requirement to ensure practicality and reliability.
There are no particular innovations on this vehicle and the mechanicals are all tried and trusted. Power comes from the existing straight-six 10-litre turbocharged engine which produces 340bhp.
In the cab operators will enjoy a higher level of comfort than on previous models with a pair of air-suspended seats, electric windows and heated mirrors included as standard. All-round visibility is good, the steering is light and the vehicle is generally easy to drive.
To discover more about the maintenance side of things we visited Renault Trucks London at its Park Royal premises where Maxters are regularly serviced.