10 | COVER
10 | COVER
Renault Trucks Range T-High 520 Evolution A Natural Selection!
Following the success of Setanta Vehicle Sales’ Renault Trucks Special Edition Cú Chulaínn T-High, the follow up flagship model is based on the new T High Evolution. Although the Evolution models feature factory designed upgrades across the C, K and T series rather than one-off specials, the question is, what improvements does Evolution bring to the Range T eight years after it was launched? And is there anything more to the truck than a striking livery and some well-placed decals? At first glance, the Evolution would appear to be the same Range T High just with the aforementioned striking paintwork. However, it only takes a minute to realise that there is a bit more than an attractive colour to this limited edition model. Renault Trucks has incorporated some enhanced styling details
that will improve aerodynamics, which is expected to deliver a significant 3% reduction in fuel consumption. The first noticeable change are the new headlights, now reduced in size thereby allowing more room to sculpt the surrounding panels to improve airflow. In addition to the new headlights, a re-styled grille, larger diamond logo, and LED lights come as standard. As with the standard Range T, the Evolution model has two external lockers FLEETTRANSPORT | JULY 2022
on each side. Access to the cab is first class as the door opens to 90 degrees, and the well-placed grab rails ensure safe access and egress via the four steps to the high mounted cab. Inside, the obvious sense of space is further enhanced by the soft grey trim which adds quite an elegant and stylish finish to the furnishings. This is promoted even further with the contemporary seat coverings and the improved driving position. The best driving position is now easier to find as the wide range of steering column adjustments for rake and reach/tilt are activated by a well-placed foot-switch to the left of the column. Apart from the new Start/ Stop push-button, the dash remains largely unchanged, although on the left-hand drive models Renault Trucks did introduce a number of alternative storage, and device charging options. Nevertheless, the RHD version is well laid out, ergonomically sound and allows the driver to mix and match what controls go where to their preferred choice. The Range T High is a big high-mounted cab and Renault Truck has been conscious to maximise the areas of visibility for the driver. It’s an aspect of driving that is becoming increasingly important when in urban areas, especially now with the addition of a variety of people powered modes of transport (scooters). It is clear that the driver and his/ her comfort and safety were foremost in the minds of the Renault Trucks design team, not just when behind the wheel, but also extending to the living and resting spaces of the cab. A new resting hammock, updated comfort mattress, a 40-litre fridge, and, with the Evolution model, a Microwave and TV will all help
to make life on the road a little more pleasant. One feature most drivers who spend time away will appreciate is the top bunk which cleverly transforms into a sizeable storage area that secures large items such as suitcases while travelling. It is this type of attention to detail that wins drivers over as does the provision of 12 and 24-volt charge points. While quite familiar with the Range T, it is always a truck one looks forward to driving. It is a quiet and easy truck to work with and the 520 hp DTi 13 engine operates efficiently. With 2,550 Nm of
torque available from a low 1,000 rpm, this means the truck moves well from an engine speed just over idle, helping to make moving off in traffic and in general driving gentle and smooth. The 520 hp is more than adequate for work in Ireland at 46 tonnes GVW and is equally
