Latest Posts

1. Official Opening of RHCV Newark

   July 8, 2021 1:16 pm

   

   Leading East Midlands independent Renault Trucks distributor RH Commercial Vehicles (RHCV) new site in Newark has been officially opened by Carlos Rodrigues, Managing Director of Renault Trucks UK & Ireland.

   RHCV’s new 20,000 sq ft facility is close to the A1 in Nottinghamshire and features a new 8,000 sq ft workshop with three high bays, as well as sales support for new and used vehicles and rentals.

   Award-winning Renault Trucks dealer RHCV now has six sites across the East Midlands including Newark, as well as Nottingham, Alfreton, Leicester, and Northampton, plus a recent acquisition in Peterborough.  The team has been looking for a suitable site in the Newark area for many years.

   Carlos was welcomed by RHCV’s Managing Director Nigel Baxter and Newark Dealer Point Manager Chris Turner and enjoyed a tour of the facility and met the staff before the official opening.

   Nigel Baxter, Managing Director at RHCV comments “We’re delighted to welcome Carlos to the new site to mark our official opening.  The RHCV team has done a great job, ensuring the new site meets both ours and Renaults’ exacting standards.  We’re pleased to bring the Renault Trucks quality service to a new group of customers in the local area.”

   Carlos Rodrigues, Managing Director, Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, added: “RHCV’s significant investment in this new state-of-the-art facility demonstrates a long-term commitment to North Nottinghamshire, and to supporting and growing Renault Trucks’ customer base across the region.”

   RHCV has already invested in additional customer and staff amenities at the site.  The new workshop is fully equipped with the latest parts management systems including a ‘vertical storage R-Mag carousel’ like those at its Nottingham site.

   Nigel Baxter, Managing Director at RHCV comments: “This new facility allows us to give a first-class service to existing Renault Truck operators, and of course open up opportunities for new business in this area.”

   RHCV has been selling, leasing, servicing, and repairing heavy (HGV) and light commercial (LCV) vehicles across the East Midlands for almost five decades and employs 140 staff.

2. Renault Trucks Launches First Virtual Factory Tour

   June 15, 2021 10:53 am

   First virtual guided tour of flagship Bourg-en-Bresse factory Safe access during current international travel restrictions Sustainable approach, reducing travel emissions Unprecedented access for all, 24/7 Renault Trucks is launching a new and innovative way to welcome visitors to the Bourg-en-Bresse factory where its long distance and construction ranges are assembled – by opening its virtual doors to its flagship manufacturing site. The behind-the-scenes tour provides a 360-degree view of the assembly line in action, accompanied by audio commentary (in English) at 13 key stages of the assembly process. Alex Williams, Head of Brand & Communications at Renault Trucks UK says: “We know how highly our factory tours are valued, but whilst current Covid travel restrictions continue, we are delighted to offer an immersive and interactive experience for our customers, drivers and enthusiasts to discover how a truck is built, all from the comfort and safety of their own home.  Embracing technology-based alternatives that help reduce emissions from business miles also fits with Renault Trucks UK’s Sustainability Initiative to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas status by 2030.” The tour is available for all, 24/7, on the Renault Trucks corporate website.

3. RHCV Reveals Latest Acquisition

   June 1, 2021 2:00 pm

   In its second expansion this year leading independent Renault Trucks distributor RH Commercial Vehicles (RHCV) has acquired WTL Truck & Van Centre in Peterborough, for an undisclosed sum.

   The means that RHCV now has six sites, strategically located across the East Midlands and making the firm one of the largest Independent Renault Trucks dealer.

   Award-winning RHCV already has five sites across the East Midlands, having just opened a new facility in North Notts. Over the past three years RHCV has expanded into Northamptonshire, with a new site, broadened its offer with Isuzu, opened a brand new £3.5m facility in Nottingham and invested £70,000 in its Leicester site.

   RHCV is taking over the operation of existing RTUK dealer WTL Truck & Van Centres who are based in Fengate, Peterborough. The dealership has a 10,000 sqft modern building facility on a one acre site, strategically located in the heart of a leading industrial area of Peterborough.

   This site was opened in 2012 and its comprehensive service facilities and workshops include six service bays, MOT prep and testing centre, with two service vans for additional off-site support. The dealership also provides Renault Truck’s 24/24 roadside assistance service for Cambridgeshire.

   The site’s existing team of 10 will be TUPED across to join RHCV’s growing staff of 140 across the East Midlands and RHCV is planning to recruit another five in Peterborough.

   WTL will continue to operate its Cambridgeshire site. WTL Truck & Van Centres is part of the Welch Group of Companies which includes transportation, warehousing, distribution, specialist movements, crane hire and car dealerships.

   Nigel Baxter, Managing Director at RHCV comments: “We’re delighted to announce this very exciting news for the RHCV group and I am looking forward to welcoming the existing team to the RH ‘family’.

   “The expansion of the RHCV brand allows us to extend our quality service and values to a new territory of RTUK customers, extending our services south on the A1 from our newly opened Newark site.  This acquisition will give us significant additional coverage over the East Midlands and beyond, so making us one of the largest independent dealer groups within the Renault Trucks network.”

   RHCV has been selling, leasing, servicing and repairing heavy (HGV) and light commercial (LCV) vehicles across the East Midlands for over four decades and employs 140 staff.

4. Isuzu Truck adds second RHCV dealership to its UK network

   May 25, 2021 1:36 pm

   Following the successful appointment of RH Commercial Vehicles (RHCV) as its truck dealer in Northampton in the autumn of 2020, commercial vehicle manufacturer Isuzu Truck UK has once again combined forces with RHCV, with the latter’s Newark facility now becoming their second full dealer point for the Isuzu truck marque.

   As part of a 3-acre site close to the A1, A17 and A46 road network in north-eastern Nottinghamshire, RHCV Newark will be responsible for the full portfolio of Isuzu Truck services covering sales, service and parts for the area covering north-east Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire, together with parts of Cambridgeshire.

   Commenting on opening of its second Isuzu Truck dealership, Nigel Baxter, managing director, RHCV said, “We have been delighted with our relationship with Isuzu Truck UK, the build quality of its product range, and now to add to our area of influence for the brand. This opportunity to open a second dealership with ITUK is perfect timing for us, as lockdown measures are being lifted, and we are really excited about the potential opportunities to grow the vehicle parc in our new franchise area.”

   Nigel continues, “Positioned just to the north of Newark, our Nottinghamshire branch is ideally suited to not only cover the nominated catchment area, but it will also act as an excellent service point for vehicles travelling north to south, or vice versa, down the A1.”

   The new Isuzu Truck dealership is based at

   RH Commercial Vehicles Ltd, Unit 7A, Tuxford Business Park, Ashvale Road, Tuxford, Newark NG22 0NH

   Tel: 01636 555899

   Email: newark@rhcv.co.uk

   At RHCV Newark, the company is operating from a 20,000 square-foot site including 8000 square-foot of workshop space that can fit up to nine trucks in three bays. The site also includes tacho facilities as well as brake roller testing.

   Shortly RHCV Newark will be employing a dedicated Isuzu truck sales person to cover the franchise area as well as looking at providing customer demonstration trucks at 3.5 tonne and 7.5 tonne GVW.

   “This is a vast area of opportunity for RHCV with excellent potential for expansion based on an established customer portfolio. The relationship between our two companies has been excellent from day one and we are looking forward to continuing to expand our business in the East Midlands with RHCV,” said Pete Murphy, managing director, Isuzu Truck UK.

   Further information about the full range of Isuzu Truck dealers in the UK can be viewed at www.isuzutruck.co.uk/dealers/

5. Renault Trucks Announced as Industry Partner for Climate Action Transport Transition Summit

   May 7, 2021 9:58 am

   Underlining its commitment to sustainable transport, Renault Trucks is announced as Industry Partner for the Climate Action Transport Transition Summit, Driving Transportation to Climate Positive Tipping Points, 11 – 12 May.  

   The virtual event brings together key stakeholders driving sustainable and net-zero transition from policy and regulation to innovation, technology and investment, and will raise awareness of industry issues ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) to be held in Glasgow, November 2021.    

   Renault Trucks will take part in the Transport Transition Summit, with Managing Director of Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, Carlos Rodrigues confirmed as a speaker in Session 3, 10:00 – 11:15 GMT on 12^th May, to address the big issue challenges in commercialising zero-emission freight.

   Karine Forien, Senior Vice President, Brand and Communications, Renault Trucks says: “As a pioneer of electromobility and champion of sustainable transport, with an ambitious plan to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions already in action, Renault Trucks is proud to be an Industry Partner of this influential event in the lead up to COP26.

   “We look forward to shining a light on the challenges for our industry, sharing insights and opening up the debate around policy, infrastructure, vehicles, investment and incentives that will drive concrete actions today, and support sustainable mobility and clean transport for the future.”

   The Climate Action Transition Summits are a collection of high-level, 2-day virtual gatherings with each focusing on a specific sector transition: Hydrogen, Industry, Transport and Energy.

   Commenting on Renault Trucks’ decision to partner with Climate Action for the Transport Transition Summit, Nick Henry at Climate Action says: “We are delighted that Renault Trucks are supporting us as Industry Partner, sharing their leadership and vision for the transition to a low carbon transport world.”

   Renault Trucks is already on the road to net-zero, with its fully electric Z.E. range from 3.1t to 26t GVW answering today’s pressing need to improve air quality and reduce noise pollution in our cities. From 2023, an all-electric Renault Trucks offer will be available for all sectors, namely distribution, construction and long distance, with preparations underway to market a Z.E. tractor unit.

   The manufacturer has committed that 10% of its total sales (vehicles over 12t) will be electric by the end of 2025, rising to 35% in 2030 and by 2040, all its vehicle ranges will be 100% fossil-free.

6. New Role Revealed to Support Contract Customers

   May 4, 2021 10:51 am

   As its business continues to expand and responding to market demands, East Midlands leading independent Renault trucks distributor RH Commercial Vehicles (RHCV) has appointed a dedicated Warranty & Contracts Manager.

   As operators look to maximise fleet efficiencies and manage costs, RHCV has responded by appointing a Warranty & Contracts Manager to improve its services.  Having a dedicated contracts manager will enable the business to offer customers wider contract services included fixed maintenance to keep vehicles on the road.

   RHCV has grown from one site, to now five sites across the East Midlands and a team of 140.

   Originally founded in 1977, RHCV has in the last three years expanded into Northamptonshire, broadened its offer with Isuzu, opened a brand new £3.5m facility in Nottingham and invested £70,000 in its Leicester site as well as opening a new site in North Nottinghamshire, just outside Newark.

   Recognising talent within the business, David Templeman has been appointed to the new role.

   David has been with RHCV for over 10 years (including eight years as Dealer Point Manager at RHCV’s sites in Nottingham and Alfreton). He will be based at RHCV’s headquarters on Blenheim Industrial Estate in Bulwell (Nottingham) but will support RHCV’s growing customer base from across the region.

   Nigel Baxter, Managing Director at RHCV comments: “We are constantly looking at ways we can improve the business, one area we have identified is our repair and maintenance contracts. As customers want to focus on maximizing value it’s imperative that we are responding accordingly with David having sole responsibility to support customers in this area.

   “It’s hugely important that we continue to evolve and invest providing the best service to our customers. This is an important new role and David’s knowledge of the Renault systems and experience with the product make him the ideal candidate.”

   Formed in 1977, RHCV has been a Renault Trucks dealer since 1986. Earlier in the year RHCV announced the opening of a new fifth site, strategically located in North Nottinghamshire.

   David added “I’m delighted to be taking on this new role. This is a great opportunity for me to use my knowledge and skills to support our customers and continue to expand and grow RHCV.”

7. ‘Best Thing Since Sliced Bread’ Warburtons first 16 Tonne 100% Electric Truck goes on the Road

   April 22, 2021 2:53 pm

   Warburtons, the UK’s largest bakery brand, is rolling out its first 16 tonne 100% electric truck, a Renault Trucks D Z.E.  

   The vehicle, striking in Warburtons orange livery and proudly stating ‘Our electric trucks are the best thing since sliced bread’, joins the company’s secondary bread fleet operating out of its Enfield bakery.  The D Z.E., which can cover up to 150km on a single charge, can carry around six tonnes of bread and bakery products to multiple locations across London. 

   Fully electric, the D Z.E. is eligible to operate in the capital’s Ultra Low Emission Zone and Congestion Charge Zone without incurring charges, while its zero tailpipe emissions in use and low traffic noise make it ideal for Warburtons urban deliveries.

   Steven Gray, Warburtons National Transport Manager, says: “As our first 16 tonne electric truck goes on the road, we mark another important milestone in our sustainable fleet management.  By using the Renault Trucks D Z.E. we offer our customers the same quality of service but with zero tailpipe emissions and quieter operation in urban environments.”

   Carlos Rodrigues, Managing Director, Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, says: “The Renault Trucks D Z.E. answers today’s pressing need to improve air quality and reduce noise pollution in our cities.  We are delighted that Warburtons has selected the D Z.E. to deliver even more sustainably for its customers, and that this first vehicle will confidently provide this service for the next ten years.”

   Warburtons first D Z.E. is a 4×2 rigid featuring box body with rear side door and tail lift by PPS Commercials. Powered by 200kWh, 600 V lithium-ion batteries, the Alternating Current synchronous motor with permanent-magnet technology delivers maximum power of 185 kW, continuous power of 130 kW and maximum torque of 425 Nm. The Z.E. reduction gearbox offers two forward speeds and one reverse.

   The D Z.E., which will recharge at Warburtons Enfield site, is equipped with a 22kW on board AC charger and is compatible with DC fast charging up to 150kW.

   The vehicle comes with Renault Trucks Battery Performance Promise which guarantees that the battery will operate for up to 10 years or deliver 250 MW of energy over the vehicle’s life. Renault Trucks engineers have taken Warburtons operational data for a number of Enfield-based routes and mapped this against a real world, real time traffic database derived from over 1 million miles of vehicle telematics data. Their calculation of the total energy consumption of the vehicle means it will operate for a ten year period without using more than 250 MW of energy, and this is the contract duration for the first Warburtons D ZE vehicle.

   Supplied by Renault Trucks dealer, JDS Trucks & Vans, aftersales support for the D Z.E., which is Renault Trucks’ first production electric truck to go on the road in the UK, will be provided by local dealer Norfolk Truck & Van Enfield throughout the ten-year contract.

8. Isuzu Truck expands its successful Grafter 3.5 tonne truck range as sales soar to record levels

   April 21, 2021 1:48 pm

   Following a record year of sales for its 3.5 tonne Grafter range of trucks in 2020, leading commercial vehicle manufacturer Isuzu Truck UK has announced that it is expanding, and uprating, the range of options within its award-winning Grafter range for 2021, together with adding new finance and long-term warranty plans.

   With immediate effect, the Isuzu Grafter 3.5 tonne truck range now incorporates a choice of models on the most popular Grafter 120hp that includes a new option over the standard 6-speed manual transmission of a fully automatic 6-speed gearbox for the first time, as well as incorporating updated steering and suspension features.

   Announcing details of changes to the Grafter range, Richard Waterworth, head of sales at Isuzu Truck UK, said,” The Grafter has been available in the UK for many years now and, based on our long-term operational experience at this GVW, we believe that the latest Grafter 2021 version is a most excellent all-round truck package that is ideally suited to UK operators.  In co-operation with our colleagues in Japan, we have been able to refine the driving performance, reliability, and efficiency of this range, but keeping our unique forward cab design.”

   Richard continues, “Not only does the fully automatic gearbox now make the Grafter even easier to drive, especially within urban environments where it works at its best, but it is now even lighter in weight than its predecessor, whilst offering further improved driving performance as well as reduced emissions. “

   For 2021, the Isuzu Grafter N35.125 (A) 6D Temp chassis is available in both single and twin rear wheel models, featuring the Aisin AWR6B45, 6-speed fully automatic gearbox with sequential shift. This automatic gearbox weighs in 35 kg lighter than the old model, with a typical 2021 Grafter N35.125 (SA) SWB model, for example, now having a kerb weight of just 1765 kg* (excludes the driver and fuel).

   Isuzu Truck UK has also confirmed that the current Easyshift semi-automatic transmission option will continue to be the preferred option on the higher horsepower Grafter N35.150 model.

   The impact of the Grafter range in the UK gained added momentum in 2017 with the launch of the Euro 6 Grafter Green models, with both new and existing customers taking to the new trucks in significantly larger numbers.

   By 2020, Isuzu Truck UK had its best performance ever for 3.5 tonne vehicle sales, representing a 17.3% increase in comparison to the previous year.

   “2020 was a fantastic year-long performance for Isuzu Truck UK, especially bearing in mind that the overall 3.5 tonne chassis cab market was more than 14% down on prior year and we were in the middle of a global pandemic,” commented Richard Waterworth, “Last year, the UK construction industry showed a real liking for the Grafter with tipper sales, in particular, increasing by over 44% in that particular market, whilst the Grafter has become the ‘go to’ truck at 3.5 tonne GVW for both arb and landscaping companies,” added Richard.

   As with the full Isuzu truck range from 3.5 tonne to 13.5 tonne, the new 2021 Grafters are supplied complete with a three-year unlimited mileage warranty as standard. In support of the new Grafter debut for 2021, Isuzu has also introduced an extended warranty and free service package covering additional four- and five-year options.

   This extended warranty and free service package enables customers to choose from either the four year or five-year warranty period package with the option of three mileage parameters at 12,500 miles, 18,750 miles or 25,000 miles per annum.

   “Our new after sales offering has proved extremely popular since we first introduced it and shortly, we will be announcing a further three new flexible finance packages, including a ‘Buy now, pay later’ plan, which will enable operators to maximise the productivity of their Isuzus, whilst easing the financial burden of new vehicle acquisition,” commented Richard Waterworth.

   Further detailed specification information about the new Isuzu Grafter range of 3.5 tonne trucks for 2021 can be viewed on the ITUK website on: Products – Trucks

9. Renault Trucks T, T High, C & K Evolution 2021: More Comfortable, Reliable and Efficient

   April 19, 2021 11:41 am

   Renault Trucks is upgrading its T, T High, C and K ranges in 2021, bringing major improvements in terms of driving comfort, on-board comfort, safety and productivity.

   This is the most important evolution since the total renewal of the manufacturer’s ranges in 2013.

   A bolder exterior

   In 2021, Renault Trucks is changing the exterior design of its vehicles, adopting a more assertive style, particularly in terms of the headlights, which have been reduced in size to increase the painted surface of the lower body section, which includes bumper corner, step boxes and lower front panel.  A new honeycomb grille completes the modern, sleek design of the 2021 Renault Trucks.

   Improved driving comfort

   • New multidirectional steering column

   The vehicles are fitted with a new full three-axis adjustable steering column for drivers to adopt the driving position that suits them best, tailored to their personal preference.  An intuitive, single foot control sets both the position and the tilt of the steering wheel.  Adjustment with both hands on the wheel and instant locking ensures both precision and safety. In addition, the ignition barrel on the column has been replaced by a start button for optimum convenience and security.

   Two lower dash-located USB-C ports provide easy access charging points for phone and devices.

   • New seats

   As an HGV driver spends an average of nine hours a day behind the wheel, the seats need to remain comfortable throughout the life of the vehicle – to be suited to each driver, and the demands of his or her job. Renault Trucks has introduced new seat materials, building on the exceptional comfort and support offered by the seat itself, and designed to withstand the many climbs in and out of the cab every day. Materials are finished to be easier to clean, and seat covers are fully removable.  New fabric and part leather designs are introduced. A redesigned home-from-home sleeping area

   • Home-from-home sleeping area

   A truck is not only a driver’s work place, it is also where they rest and sleep. The quality of the bed is therefore crucial.  For the driver’s well-being and comfort throughout the lifetime of the vehicle, Renault Trucks has increased the thickness of the mattress of the “Serenity” bunk by 13% to 170mm and doubled the number of springs, providing optimal support thanks to a better distribution of body weight. A washable memory foam mattress topper can be added as an option. The mattress is also detachable from its base, allowing for the use of fitted sheets.

   For added convenience, two USB-C sockets have also been added to the bunk area to make it easier to charge electronic devices, while keeping them within easy reach of the driver during rest periods.

   Finally, to improve sound quality in the cab, Renault Trucks has increased the level of insulation in the doors and teamed up with the French manufacturer Focal, for the supply of hi-fi equipment and speakers.

   Increased safety for drivers, their loads and road users

   High safety levels for drivers and road users have also been a core focus in the development of the Renault Trucks T, T High, C and K evolution ranges.

   The new Renault Trucks T, T High and C on-road models are fitted with 5 Cell LED front lamps as standard with daytime running, main beam, fog and indicator functions.  The new wraparound design improves side visibility and safety.  As it is closer to natural light, LED light gives drivers a better perception of contrasts and colours, and with light output that is three times that of standard lights, night-time visibility and therefore safety is significantly improved. A further advantage of LED technology is its reliability and longevity. The life of an LED source is up to thirty times longer than that of a conventional bulb.

   Additional LED lights have also been positioned on the inside of the doors to illuminate the door sill for increased driver safety when getting in and out of the vehicle at night.

   For the optimal safety of drivers, their loads and road users, a number of options are also available, including anti-intrusion door lock (safety door-lock), cameras and presence sensors, as well as vision doors providing excellent visibility of pedestrians and cyclists.  For construction models, high-visibility painting of exterior grab handles are an additional safety feature.

   Finally, the anti-rollaway parking brake emergency application reduces the risk of unexpected vehicle movement when the driver leaves the cab, by automatically activating the park brake to stop the truck.

   Reduced fuel consumption and optimised maintenance

   • 3% fuel savings

   Firstly, the cab’s aerodynamics have been improved around the front grille and wheel arch extensions have been added to improve airflow.

   Secondly, equipped with Renault Trucks Euro VI Step E engines, the vehicles have been fitted with new technology to further reduce fuel consumption. These include a new version of the Optivision predictive cruise control system and an optimised cruise control system with two selectable driving modes. ‘Eco on’ is the default mode and optimises fuel consumption by adjusting acceleration, gear shifting, cruise control and deceleration, whereas “Eco off” allows drivers to change the driving mode.

   A new “Pulse and Glide” function further improves fuel consumption by maintaining the vehicle’s speed around the Cruise Control set point (+/- 2km/h).

   Finally, the new Renault Trucks T and T High vehicles are fitted as standard with Category A tyres as standard, the most efficient on the market in terms of fuel economy.

   Vehicles supported by new service offers

   • Software optimisation through remote update services

   Over the air software updates give drivers the opportunity to remotely download the optimum settings for their vehicles. This ensures that their vehicles operate at optimum efficiency without the need to have any software updates undertaken by their dealer.

   • Extended oil change intervals up to 150,000 km

   Depending on usage and mileage, oil change intervals for vehicles fitted with 13-litre Euro VI engines can be extended to 150,000 km or 18 months.  This can result in lower contracted maintenance costs (labour and parts), optimised maintenance schedules with fewer service intervals and additional fuel savings.

10. 2020 Sales Results – Renault Trucks Holds Its Ground and Remains Committed to Its Customers

    March 24, 2021 9:53 am

    In a year marked by an unprecedented health crisis, Renault Trucks’ priority was to preserve its customers’ activity. Over 90% of Renault Trucks sales and service outlets continued to welcome customers and their trucks during the height of the pandemic. In this unprecedented context and despite a downturn in volume, with a total of 41,117 vehicles invoiced in 2020, Renault Trucks has maintained its market share. A positive indicator is that Renault Trucks has recorded a 12% increase in orders compared to the previous year.

    Over 90% of the Renault Trucks sales network remained open at the height of the pandemic

    On 18 March 2020, to protect the safety of its employees, Renault Trucks decided to close its four French plants. Production gradually resumed from 23 April 2020. However, Renault Trucks’ number one priority in 2020 was to stand by its customers and help them continue with their work, which was vital during the crisis.

    During the March lockdown, the manufacturer managed to keep more than 90% of its sales and service network open around the world, thanks to the introduction of the most stringent health and safety rules.

    Invoicing falls, but orders are on the rise

    The pandemic and resulting economic crisis strongly impacted the HGV market in 2020. Renault Trucks’ 2020 invoicing volume followed the market trend, falling by 24% to 41,117 vehicles.

    Invoicing breaks down as follows:

    Breakdown of invoicing per destination

    Europe (excluding France): 19,019 vehicles invoiced

    France: 17,937 vehicles invoiced

    Rest of the world: 4,161 vehicles invoiced

    Breakdown of invoicing per tonnage

    Heavy and mid-range vehicles: 26,246 vehicles invoiced

    Light-duty vehicles: 14,871 vehicles invoiced

    A positive indicator is worth noting for 2020, in that Renault Trucks recorded a 12% increase in orders compared to 2019.

    Holding market share in Europe, undisputed leader in France

    In Europe, thanks to the setting up of organisations dedicated to the brand and the creation of flexible offers, specifically adapted to customers’ needs in times of crisis, Renault Trucks has held its ground in a turbulent market.

    On the European market for vehicles over 6 tonnes, the French manufacturer recorded a stable market share of 8.5% in 2020. Market share remained unchanged in the over 16-tonne segment at 8.8% and in the mid-range segment (6-16 tonnes), it rose by 0.3 points to 6.6%.

    In France, on its domestic market, Renault Trucks remains the undisputed leader with a >6t market share of 28.3%, up 0.6%.

    On a positive note, in the last quarter of 2020, Renault Trucks recorded a 40% increase in orders compared to the previous year (Q4 2020 vs Q4 2019).

    International sales up 16%

    Internationally, Renault Trucks recorded a 16% increase in its invoiced sales.

    2020 was marked in particular by strong recovery in Algeria, a historic market for Renault Trucks, with 1,100 trucks invoiced, up 80% on 2019. Thanks to its assembly plant in Meftah, the French manufacturer has consolidated its leading position in Algeria with a 47.8% share of the over-16 tonne market for European manufacturers.

    In the buoyant Turkish market, Renault Trucks achieved very strong growth in invoiced sales, rising from 640 vehicles in 2019 to 1,061 in 2020.

    Good performances in sub-Saharan Africa are worthy of note, where Renault Trucks offers a dedicated range of used vehicles (Renault Trucks T X-Port and T X-64, converted at the Used Trucks Factory). Renault Trucks also sells a special extra-safe edition of its K range on these markets, the Renault Trucks K Safety Edition.

    Record volumes for used trucks, up 9%

    Used Trucks is a strategic sector for Renault Trucks. The actions taken by the manufacturer with respect to the specification of new trucks (with a view to their future arrival on the used truck market), as well as initiatives introduced during the pandemic in terms of financing flexibility, ease of contract interruption, etc., enabled the manufacturer to perform well in 2020. Renault Trucks recorded a record volume of invoicing with 10,308 used vehicles invoiced, an increase of 9% on 2019.

    Renault Trucks has also significantly increased its performance in terms of used truck services, with service penetration up 4 points on 2019 to 28%. The number of used trucks sold with a Selection warranty contract also rose 25% in 2020.

    A unique position on the used trucks market

    Renault Trucks is adopting an entirely innovative approach to the used vehicle market. This strategy is unique on the market and is based on upcycling and recycling.

    The best illustration of this is its Used Trucks Factory, a specialised workshop for the transformation of used trucks integrated into the Bourg-en-Bresse manufacturing site. The conversions carried out there are the subject of specific R&D studies and, in terms of the industrial manufacturing process and quality control, meet the same high standards as those applied to the manufacture of new vehicles. 500 additional vehicles were manufactured at the Used Trucks Factory in 2020 and new models were launched this year, such as the Renault Trucks T X-64, a vehicle dedicated to the African and Middle Eastern markets.

    Renault Trucks is also pursuing the implementation of its own recycling and reuse of parts for heavy goods vehicles, with Indra Automobile Recycling. This project has been approved by the French ADEME environmental agency.

    A true pioneer in its approach to used vehicles, Renault Trucks is transforming the activity and purchasing habits, as well as accelerating its transition to a circular economy.

    Renault Trucks continues to invest heavily in electric mobility

    Renault Trucks has set ambitious targets for electric mobility in terms of sales volumes. The manufacturer has announced that by 2025, electric vehicles will represent 10% of its total vehicle sales and 35% by 2030. The ultimate goal is to provide 100% of its vehicles without fossil fuels by 2040.

    The manufacturer is making huge investments to achieve this goal. In March 2020, it started series production of its second generation of electric vehicles at the Blainville-sur-Orne plant and now boasts the widest electric range on the market. Renault Trucks D Z.E., D Wide Z.E. and Master Z.E. constitute a range that extends from 3.1 to 26 tonnes, meeting the urban requirements of delivery, distribution and waste collection.

    To help its customers accelerate their energy transition, Renault Trucks has set up a new sales organisation dedicated to electric mobility.

    At the same time, the manufacturer is continuing to invest in extending the electrification of its range of vehicles to all uses. From 2023, an electric range will be available for each segment, namely distribution, construction and long distance.