Making its UK debut at the Resource & Waste Management Expo (RWM), Renault Trucks unveiled its 26 tonne E-Tech D Wide 6x2 low entry cab with a bus-style door. This allows crews to easily access the cab which makes it well suited for multi-stop urban routes. As the door folds inwards it’s an additional safety feature for staff exiting the vehicle, giving full visibility of any vehicles, pedestrians or cyclists in the immediate vicinity.
The low entry cab eRCV is fitted with full air suspension for stability and ease of access, a kneel function allows the height to be lowered even further. Alongside the E-Tech D Wide LEC with bus-style doors, Renault Trucks displayed other examples in its all-electric waste and recycling lineup, including a 26 tonne E-Tech D Wide LEC 6x2 with conventional doors.
Both vehicles were set up for one driver and three operatives. Renault Trucks’ 375 kWh E-Tech traction batteries powered the eRCVs which were made up of four 94 kW battery packs in the wheelbase. Combined with twin motors, this powertrain can deliver 260 kW continuously, 370 kW at its peak and 850 Nm of torque. To cater to multiple bin lifts, waste compaction and longer running times, Renault Trucks’ larger battery packs now have up to 40 percent more capacity than previously.
Alex Williams, head of brand and communications at Renault Trucks UK & Ireland said: “We are delighted to return to RWM Expo 2023 and to showcase our ultra-quiet, 100% electric Renault Trucks E-Tech range. Across the UK and Ireland, Renault Trucks electric vehicles are already in operation with customers in a wide range of sectors including waste and recycling. There are immediate opportunities within the sector to decarbonise transport, and indeed the vast majority of RCV vehicles in the UK could be electric today.”
Showcasing the diversity of its zero emissions offering, Renault Trucks also displayed its E-Tech D 4x2 mounted with a Hyva 2012XL skip loader body. This example was powered by a 265 kWh traction battery with charging capabilities from 22 kW to 150 kW. Fitted with a reduction gearbox, the vehicle has two forward speeds and one reverse and single reduction final drive axle with integral differential lock for better handling and traction on slippery or uneven terrain.
