RVI's lightweight set
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to boost 10% target show o:itftetturroeit • by Peter Lawton Renault VI's replacement or the Midliner will be
launched at the Amsterdam European Road Transport Show in February.
The new six to 16tonne range is an important part of Renault's drive to capture 10% of the UK truck market, but only a few details are available at present.
The company has revealed that the range will use two "proven" engines: a 4.0-litre unit developing 135hp or 150hp; and a 6.2-litre unit with ratings of 180, 210 and 250hp. Three mechanical gearboxes will be offered as well as an automatic box—expected to be a ZF unit.
The cab is likely to be based on the modular Premium design and Will come in a short version of 1.6m and a longer 2m model. A four-door crew-cab with six/seven seats in four layout
options will also be on sale, offering "the same comfort and trim as a car", says Renault.
In line with market trends, Renault is likely to tie up with bodybuilders to make a range of ready-fitted-out trucks available from the forecourt. The company says the two new chassis, with their straight side-member design, are able to take body lengths from 3.4 to 10m, Braking will be an air system throughout, with four disc brakes on at models up to 12 tonnes and front discs/rear drums on heavier models.
The UK 7.5-tonne sector is a big-volume market for manufacturers, so the success of the new range will be important for Renault. However, with "grandfather rights" allowing car licence holders to drive up to 7.5 tonnes gradually dying out, its future is uncertain.
What is more certain is that the ageing Midliner's sales into this market, distorted and polarised by UK legislation as it may be, have declined to around two a week.