FOR IMMEDIATE PUBLICATION 7,701 WORDS
THURSDAY 11TH MARCH 2010
RENAULT'S VAN RANGE: MORE EFFICIENT, COMFORTABLE
AND ECONOMICAL THAN EVER
May on sale date
Renault has been the undisputed leader of western Europe's commercial vehicle market for the past 12 years, and a market share of 14.81 per cent in 2009 put the company in a good position to resist the sector’s downturn (down 28 per cent in 2009).
To consolidate its number one status, Renault is launching no fewer than three new models this year as it renews and upgrades its range with the introduction of New Master, Trafic Phase 3 and New Kangoo Van Maxi.
The flagship of Renault's commercial vehicle range is New Master, boasting bold styling which mirrors its rugged build, plus an entirely redesigned interior to ensure exceptional comfort and storage capacity.
The range's new 2.3 dCi engine is available in a choice of three power outputs (100, 125 and 150 hp). With an average fuel economy gain over the outgoing Master range of up to 4.1 mpg, the front-wheel drive panel van versions of New Master return impressive NEDC combined cycle fuel consumption from 33 mpg. Servicing costs have also been cut by 28 per cent and figure among the lowest on the market.
Thanks to the availability of a new rear-wheel drive version, the range has been extended to include a fourth length option (load capacity up to 22m³), new 3.5 and 4.5 tonne versions with twin rear wheels and gives greater scope to tailor-made conversions.
Joining New Master in 2010 is the facelifted, third-phase Trafic, which has been principally engineered to be more comfortable and driver-friendly. The dashboard has been redesigned to incorporate practical stowage spaces, while new equipment features normally associated with cars make life at the wheel even more comfortable. The 2.0 litre dCi version of Trafic Phase 3 also offers an appreciable reduction in fuel consumption.
The final model joining the fold is the New Kangoo Van Maxi, an extended wheelbase version (nearly 40cm) of the ever-popular Kangoo Van, available with either two or five seats. It offers a useful load volume of up to 4.6m3, a maximum load length at floor level of 2.90 metres, an even more modular interior, solid roadholding and a choice of fuel-efficient engines. This latest addition means that Renault is the only brand in Europe to market a compact van that is available in a choice of three wheelbases, ensuring there is a version to match every type of business use.
At the same time, Renault is enhancing its business customer strategy with the launch of the Renault Pro+ network in 20 countries across the world. Essentially a one-stop shop, the new network offers practical, efficient solutions that are tailored to meet the needs of each customer, ranging from extended opening hours, servicing ramps up to 7.5t and a wide range of used and demonstration vehicles.
The Renault group's aim is to offer affordable, more ecologically-friendly mass-market solutions and, to this end, has extended the Renault eco² signature to cover its commercial vehicle range in a bid to highlight its ongoing efforts to reduce the environmental impact of its products. The Renault eco² signature now applies across the complete range of cars and commercial vehicles.
Furthermore, the first half of 2011 will see the introduction of an all-electric version of Kangoo Van with an operational range of 100 miles. This zero-emission van will be particularly suited to business users looking for an optimised carrying capacity of three cubic metres and will primarily be intended for use in and around built-up areas.
CONTENTS
NEW MASTER
A MORE EXTENSIVE RANGE OF ECONOMICAL VEHICLES
01 Assertive styling
02 The new benchmark for cabin stowage
03 Saloon car comfort
04 Outstanding performance
05 Cost of ownership among the lowest on the market
06 An extensive range, now including rear-wheel drive versions
07 Safety a priority
TRAFIC PHASE 3
COMFORTABLE AND USER-FRIENDLY
08 A new dashboard and new equipment
09 Reassuring to drive
NEW KANGOO EXPRESS MAXI
A UNIQUE, COMPREHENSIVE LINE-UP
10 A longer wheelbase, with the same outstanding roadholding
11 A comfortable, adaptable workhorse
12 An extensive range of economical vans
RENAULT'S LCV STRATEGY
13 Three questions to Jean-Christophe Kugler, Director of Renault's LCV Division
14 The Renault Pro+ network: a tailor-made service for professionals
15 Commercial vehicles with a cleaner environmental conscience
NEW MASTER,
New Master's assertive styling previews the new design trend for Renault vans, with businesslike, expressive lines that reflect the robustness and outstanding user-friendliness expected of a large van.
The cab offers the market's biggest range of practical and convenient stowage solutions. Shaped around the specific requirements of business users and the equipment they need for their everyday work, these solutions are both user-friendly and perfectly integrated into the interior design.
New Master aims to deliver car levels of comfort thanks to a complete reappraisal of the driving position and controls, enhanced visibility and the availability of a raft of new features normally associated with cars.
New Master is powered by the new 2.3 litre dCi engine which was engineered to take on board the specific requirements of commercial vehicle users. The powerplant range includes three power outputs (100, 125 and 150hp) and is identical for both the front-wheel drive (transversally mounted) and rear-wheel drive versions (longitudinal).
With an average fuel economy gain over the current Master range of up to 4.1 mpg, the front-wheel drive panel van versions of New Master return class-leading combined-cycle fuel consumption (NEDC) from 33 mpg (187g of CO2/km). Servicing costs have been slashed by 28 per cent compared with the previous model in the UK and figure among the lowest on the market.
Thanks to the new rear-wheel drive versions, the range has been extended to include an additional length option (L4, offering a carrying capacity of up to 22m3). Also new are 3.5 and 4.5 tonne versions with twin rear wheels, as well as features that give coachbuilders greater scope for conversions.
New Master will be manufactured at Renault's SOVAB* plant in Batilly, France.
(*) SOVAB (Société des Véhicules Automobiles de Batilly) is a wholly-owned Renault subsidiary.
1. ASSERTIVE STYLING
New Master boasts a brand new design which previews the new styling trend for Renault vans. Its assertive, expressive lines preview the robustness and outstanding user-friendliness expected of a big van.
Forceful looks
New Master's bold front-end styling features a broad grille and large, expressive headlamps. The muscular wheel arches and blunt bonnet convey a sense of power, while the distinctive forms of the asymmetric rear windows has become one of Master's visual hallmarks. The model's unmistakable rear lighting signature is founded on three triangular stop lights.
Robust lines and purposefully practical
New Master's ruggedness is clearly evident in its pleasing proportions, prominent protective bumpers and broad side protection mouldings. The rear lights are wider than those of the previous model and give the vehicle a more grounded, reassuring stance.
The styling work of the design team was steered by a concerted effort to produce a vehicle that was above all practical:
2. THE NEW BENCHMARK FOR CABIN STOWAGE
New Master's cab boasts the market's biggest range of practical and convenient stowage spaces. These driver-friendly, fully-integrated solutions have been designed to accommodate the paraphernalia of everyday working life.
Among its myriad of features are:
– Provision for fitment of the tachograph.
– Sunglasses holder.
– A dashboard compartment to accommodate a laptop computer and/or A4-size documents.
– A large oddments tray above the glovebox.
– A mobile phone holder with a 12V socket for charging, a coin holder and a holder for cards or motorway toll tickets – all within easy reach of the steering wheel.
– An MP3 player holder close to a second 12V socket, plus audio connectivity.
– Four can holders and a removable ashtray.
– A large 7.6 litre chilled glovebox (with optional climate control) with capacity for two 1.5-litre bottles.
– Capacious door bins incorporating internal divisions and space for a 1.5-litre bottle.
– Numerous trays to accommodate items such as keys, gloves, folding umbrellas, etc.
Roomy under-seat stowage accessible by lifting up the cushion of the passenger seat. The uninterrupted space allows larger items to be stashed away.
A fully-fledged workspace in the cab
New Master sees the launch of two major innovations which enhance the workspace inside the cab:
3. SALOON CAR COMFORT
New Master boasts a standard of comfort that is similar to that of a saloon car. The driver's environment has been extensively redesigned to ensure optimal comfort, even on long journeys. Special attention has been paid to Master's thermal and acoustic comfort, and the cab includes a long list of equipment more usually associated with cars.
A comfortable, user-friendly driver's environment
Not only is the cabin more comfortable, but it also accommodates tall occupants with ease, thanks to an extra 5.7cm in cabin length, most of which has been devoted to providing extra legroom.
In order to deliver a standard of comfort expected of a car, Renault has made a concerted bid to make the cab even more driver-friendly:
The optional suspension seat is particularly well suited to drivers who clock up a high number of miles. It can be adjusted according to the weight of the driver (from 40 to 130kg) and is equipped with a choice of two cushion angles, a pneumatic lumbar adjustment system and an adjustable headrest. It is compatible with a heated seat.
Thermal and acoustic comfort
New Master is equipped with an efficient climate control system for rapid attainment of the desired temperature, precise and easy-to-use controls, a quiet fan and improved distribution of airflow.
Careful attention has been paid, too, to the thermal comfort and soundproofing of the cab. Core-range versions of New Master come with a standard full steel bulkhead. All the engines are equipped with a twin mass-damping flywheel which filters out vibrations, notably at low engine speeds.
A comprehensive list of equipment for saloon car levels of comfort
(*) The TomTom IQ RoutesTM system uses real-world traffic patterns to calculate the quickest possible route to the driver's destination. By refreshing the TomTom® routings database with information derived from the actual journeys of millions of road users, the IQ RoutesTM system can compute the optimum route for the specific time of the day and day of the week.
4. OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE
New Master ensures a degree of driving pleasure similar to that of a car, thanks to a range of fuel efficient engines which combine responsive acceleration with low CO2 emissions. Its chassis delivers an efficient, comfortable ride whatever the load, while the new 2.3 dCi engine has been specifically developed for vans and is available in a choice of three power outputs (100, 125 and 150hp). It is transversally mounted in the case of front-wheel drive versions and longitudinally mounted on rear-wheel drive versions.
Handling and ride comfort similar to that of a passenger car
New Master is equipped with pseudo MacPherson-type front suspension, with a standard anti-roll bar to combat body roll. The rear suspension of front-wheel drive versions features a single-leaf spring arrangement, while rear-wheel drive versions come with either dual leaf springs or triple leaf springs (with twin rear wheels). Rear air suspension will be introduced in 2011 to facilitate further conversions. Ride comfort when carrying heavy loads is ensured by the fitment of long, polyurethane bump stops. The standard tyre fitment is suitable for all types of use.
The precise, direct steering requires little effort when manoeuvring. Combined with a driving position which is more akin to that of a car, the small, more vertically-set steering wheel delivers a standard of driving comfort and manoeuvrability more readily associated with a family saloon.
The new 2.3 dCi engine: downsizing for a cocktail of performance and fuel economy
The new 2.3 dCi engine was developed specifically for Renault's LCV range. Despite the fact that its cubic capacity has been reduced by 200cc compared with that of the former 2.5 dCi, the 2.3 dCi engine delivers up to 30Nm extra torque and is available in a choice of three power outputs: 100, 125 and 150hp.
This new powerplant has been downsized to match the specific needs of business users, and this work has resulted in an average fuel consumption saving of up to 4.1 mpg over the previous-generation Master. Its combined cycle fuel consumption starts at 33 mpg (187g of CO2/km) for front-wheel drive panel van versions. It is mounted transversally on front-wheel drive versions, and longitudinally in the case of rear-wheel drive versions.
All three engines are available with a manual six-speed gearbox, but the dCi 125 and dCi 150 can both be ordered with Quickshift transmission. The standard gearshift indicator is designed to help drivers judge when to change gear for greater control over fuel consumption.
All the engines that figure in the New Master range are Euro5 compliant.
Optimised traction in all load configurations
Rear-wheel drive versions of New Master feature a highly resistant monocoque construction (whereby the body forms an integral part of the chassis). This solution provides a number of benefits, including a lighter vehicle weight for a higher payload and reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, as well as enhanced manoeuvrability and a lower sill height.
All versions of New Master are equipped with latest-generation ABS and adjustable front/rear brake bias. Rear-wheel drive versions come with load-sensing ESP and standard ASR traction control which ensure enhanced road holding and vehicle stability irrespective of load. The optional differential lock optimises traction performance on loose or slippery surfaces.
5. COST OF OWNERSHIP AMONG THE LOWEST ON THE MARKET
With an average fuel economy gain over the previous-generation Master range of 4.1 mpg, the front-wheel drive versions of New Master return class-topping NEDC combined-cycle fuel consumption as low as 33 mpg (187g of CO2/km). Servicing costs have been slashed by 28 per cent compared with the previous model in the UK and figure among the lowest in the market.
Market-leading NEDC fuel consumption for front-wheel drive versions
New Master illustrates just how much progress Renault has made when it comes to reducing the fuel consumption of its commercial vehicles. Compared with the previous-generation Master, fuel consumption has been cut by an average of 1 litre/100 km in the case of front-wheel drive versions, and by up to 2.7 litres per 100 km on rear-wheel drive versions. These results flag up the front-wheel drive versions of New Master as the market leader regarding fuel economy (NEDC). Fuel consumption figures for the new range start at 33 mpg (187g/km of CO2). These improvements represent a cost saving of €1,300 (£1,180) over a distance of 90,000 miles (based on a pre-tax diesel price of €0.87/litre). Master has an operating range of more than 870 miles on a single tank of fuel, which is almost 124 miles further than its predecessor.
These improvements have been achieved thanks notably to:
Maintenance costs are among the lowest on the market
Maintenance costs in the UK have been cut by 28 per cent compared with the outgoing Master. This represents a saving of £1,000 over the course of 90,000 miles or four years. This saving has been made possible thanks to:
The total cost of ownership has fallen by £1,650 on average over 90,000 miles or four years, whichever comes first, for a monthly saving of £33 (based on European figures and a pre-tax diesel price of €0.87/litre).
6. AN EXTENSIVE RANGE, NOW INCLUDING REAR-WHEEL DRIVE VERSIONS
Thanks to the introduction of the new rear-wheel drive version, the range has been extended to include an additional length option (L4, offering a carrying capacity of up to 22m3). Also new are 3.5 and 4.5 tonne versions with twin rear wheels, as well features that give coachbuilders greater scope for conversions.
A significantly broader range
New Master is one of the market's few large vans to offer the choice of either front- or rear-wheel drive. This is how the range has expanded:
The addition of these new versions means that the New Master range is unmatched at more than 350 configurations:
Additional scope for conversions
The suitability of New Master for conversions has been enhanced thanks to its basic design features and specific options. For example, the removable rear cross-member facilitates determination of the rear overhang and makes it easier for coachbuilders to convert. The availability of rear-wheel drive options will help New Master increase its market presence, especially in segments such as dropside, tippers, Box and Luton vans.
A range of accessories that meet the needs of business users
Certain accessories are available as original equipment options, guaranteeing a high standard of quality and an innovation for the market:
Made-to-measure load space
Thanks to a choice of four lengths and three heights, the New Renault Master range offers 12 different carrying capacities, ranging from 8m³ to 22m³. Moving the spare wheel to a position underneath the vehicle has resulted in extra carrying capacity.
The doors and access to the load space have been carefully designed:
7. SAFETY A PRIORITY
Safety has always been at the heart of Renault’s concerns and the company has designed New Master to be one of the safest vehicles in its segment thanks to a long list of high-end features.
Renault Master's passive safety equipment includes:
New Master's all-round visibility is among the market's best. The revised forms of the windscreen and side windows, the steeply-raked bonnet and the raising of the driving position by 49mm have improved the vertical field of view by 1.3 degrees and the horizontal view by 7.2 degrees.
To deliver top-level active safety, New Renault Master has:
For the security of goods in the cargo area:
TRAFIC PHASE 3:
Trafic was the third-best selling vehicle in its segment in Europe in 2009, with a market share of 13.5 per cent. With the launch of Trafic Phase 3, the line-up is now even better focused on the requirements of the brand's target customers, tradesmen and traders.
Comfort and user-friendly design are the keywords for this new model: the dashboard has been redesigned to incorporate practical stowage spaces, while new equipment features normally associated with passenger cars make life at the wheel even more comfortable. The 2.0 litre dCi version of Trafic offers an appreciable reduction in fuel consumption.
8. A NEW DASHBOARD AND NEW EQUIPMENT
Trafic's new dashboard incorporates additional practical and user-friendly stowage solutions:
The instrument panel now incorporates a redesigned hood to improve the visibility and legibility of the information display. The warning lights have been repositioned, again to improve visibility.
New equipment drawing on passenger-car technology ensures class-topping cab comfort on board:
* TomTom's IQ RoutesTM technology uses real-world traffic speed patterns to calculate the quickest possible route to the driver's destination. By refreshing the TomTom® routings database with information derived from the actual journeys of millions of other road users, the IQ RoutesTM system can compute the optimum route for that particular day and time.
More dynamic styling
A new design for the dashboard top and chromed instrument bezels on core-model versions and upwards give Trafic Phase 3 a more sporting character, which is enhanced by the blue Elba upholstery. New Gunmetal Grey replaces the current Cherry Red.
9. REASSURING TO DRIVE
The van version of the revised Trafic delivers even more precise handling and enhanced ride comfort similar to that of MPVs thanks to the use of suspension technology derived from the latter type of vehicle. The MacPherson-type front suspension arrangement includes an anti-roll bar which is linked to the spring/damper assembly via an articulated mounting. The rear suspension comprises a flexible beam with trailing arms and a Panhard rod. In addition to efficiently filtering out road noise for a high standard of acoustic comfort, this set-up ensures road holding worthy of the market's best MPVs.
The combination of load sensitive hydraulic dampers and the variable rate suspension ensures a constant ride height and handling performance regardless of how much weight the vehicle is carrying.
Trafic is equipped with disc brakes all-round, along with automatically-adjusting two piston front calipers. ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution and emergency brake assist enable the driver to profit fully from Trafic's stopping power and prevent the wheels from locking, allowing the driver to remain in control under heavy braking.
Since Renault Trafic's launch in 2001, the model has racked up sales of more than 1.1 million units worldwide. It is marketed and distributed by:
NEW KANGOO VAN MAXI
A UNIQUE, COMPREHENSIVE COMPACT VAN LINE-UP
Kangoo Van has enjoyed exceptional success since its launch in 1997, with worldwide sales of Renault's compact van totalling more than 1.6 million units. Ten years after the model's arrival, Renault renewed the range with the introduction of New Kangoo Van and New Kangoo Compact.
This year sees the Kangoo Van range extended further still with Kangoo Van Maxi, creating the only compact van to be available in a choice of three wheelbases, to match every type of business use.
The wheelbase of Kangoo Van Maxi has been extended by almost 40cm and the model is available in either two- or five-seat form. It offers a useful carrying capacity of up to 4.6m3 and a load length at floor level of 2.90 metres. Kangoo Van Maxi features an even more modular interior, as well as a choice of fuel-efficient powertrains.
10. A LONGER WHEELBASE WITH THE SAME OUTSTANDING ROAD HOLDING
With an overall length of 4.60 metres, Kangoo Van Maxi is exactly 384mm longer than its standard wheelbase sibling. Maximum load length increases by almost 40cm, boosting it to 2.90 metres (with optional passenger seat folded). Kangoo Van Maxi boasts the best interior load space measurements in the big volume compact van segment, yet at the same time, offers the exterior size and easy manoeuvrability of an MPV. Kangoo Van Maxi does not have a raised roof, so its overall height is just 1.82 metres, making it compact enough to use city-centre car parks.
Boasting an extra cubic metre of load space over and above that of Kangoo Van, the carrying capacity of the newcomer's two-seater version can rise to 4.6m3, with a payload of 800kg. In terms of towing capacity, it can handle a braked trailer weight of 1.05 tonnes.
Like Kangoo Van, the Maxi version is based on Scénic, a model acclaimed for its high level of performance, comfort and safety. Indeed, Kangoo Van Maxi delivers handling worthy of a car, as recognised by Kangoo Van customers. Its additional length has been absorbed entirely by the 3.1-metre wheelbase which contributes to an even more stable drive.
11. A COMFORTABLE, ADAPTABLE WORKHORSE
Aimed principally at business users seeking maximum carrying capacity and flexibility within a compact footprint, Kangoo Van Maxi is available in a choice of three versions: two seats, five-seat Crew Van or five-seat extended cab. The latter is currently being investigated for possible UK launch under the revised name, Crew Van 2. Each of these versions offers unprecedented flexibility to adapt to every type of need:
Special attention has been paid to the driver's environment thanks to a range of comfort-enhancing improvements which now cover the complete Kangoo Van range:
12. AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF ECONOMICAL VANS
Kangoo Van Maxi is a business tool that majors on economy. The 1.5 dCi powerplant is particularly thrifty and boasts market-leading low CO2 emissions. The 85hp version returns average combined cycle fuel consumption of 44.4 mpg, and less than 39.2 mpg over the urban cycle. This engine is available for both the two- and five-seater versions and emits 140g of CO2 per kilometre.
As with the entire Renault light commercial vehicle line-up, Kangoo Van Maxi can be equipped with the Carminat TomTom® navigation system allowing business itineraries to be optimised and unnecessary mileage to be avoided.
The whole Renault Kangoo Van range is manufactured at the MCA plant in Maubeuge, France.
A CHOICE OF THREE LENGTHS – UNIQUE IN EUROPE
Available at the time of its launch in a choice of two lengths (Kangoo Van and Kangoo Compact), Renault's compact van range has been extended with the introduction of the new Kangoo Van Maxi. The availability of this big cube version means that Renault is the only manufacturer to market a compact van in a choice of three lengths. It is the fullest and most coherent range available.
- Renault Kangoo Compact: length = 3.83 metres, for carrying capacity of between 2.3 and 2.8m3.
- Renault Kangoo Van: length = 4.12 metres, for carrying capacity of between 3.0 and 3.5m3.
- Renault Kangoo Van Maxi: length = 4.60 metres, for carrying capacity of between 4.0 and 4.6m3.
13. THREE QUESTIONS TO JEAN CHRISTOPHE KUGLER, DIRECTOR OF RENAULT'S LCV DIVISION
How would you sum up Renault’s commercial vehicle strategy?
"Renault's strategy in the field of commercial vehicles is very clear. Our aim is to meet the specific requirements of business customers and fleet operators around the world by providing products that are not only competitive in terms of their fuel consumption and operating costs (total cost of ownership – TCO), but which also meet the highest possible environmental standards. Customer requirements can differ according to region, country and activity.
"To achieve this, Renault has created a Commercial Vehicle Division (Division des Véhicules Utilitaires – DVU), an autonomous business unit with its own balance sheet and financial results. This unit is responsible for formulating and implementing Renault's commercial vehicle strategy by bringing together programme management, a dedicated engineering operation, manufacturing facilities and centralised management of sales, quality and service, etc.
"The DVU is supported where necessary by specialist teams from Renault, in particular when it comes to design, purchasing, powertrain engineering and fundamental research. The division is consequently able to combine the flexibility of a logically structured and responsive operation with the backing the broader Renault group.
"Thanks to its strategy of partnerships and cooperation in the field of commercial vehicles, Renault has succeeded in developing an operation that is both profitable and global in scale. This provides economies of scale and facilitates entry into the fresh markets that have been targeted. In addition, Renault's alliance with Nissan provides further support for the brand's objectives and strategies in the sphere of commercial vehicles.
"In response to the special demands of business customers for whom a vehicle is a tool of their trade, Renault provides the support of a dedicated network, Renault Pro+. This network seeks to maximise business customer satisfaction by providing a broad range of products and services. It is thanks to initiatives of this type that Renault has remained unchallenged as the European market leader for the past twelve years."
How does the interface between the engineers and manufacturing operate?
"All the functions at Renault dedicated to commercial vehicles – i.e. design, manufacturing, sales, marketing, after-sales service, etc. – share a common goal, which is to further improve Renault’s performance by maximising customer satisfaction.
"One of the ways this is safeguarded is through the very close collaboration between the engineering functions and manufacturing. Local engineering teams in group-owned factories are permanently listening out for suggestions from manufacturing, while in those plants operated by partner companies, the engineers encourage dialogue and the fine-tuning of Renault processes and standards in order to achieve the best possible performance at every stage in the production process."
What message would you give your customers right now?
"The economic crisis has hit business customers especially hard. Renault is supporting its customers in this difficult period by offering vehicles that are highly competitive in terms of their price and TCO through the Renault Pro+ network.
"Renault Pro+ is a one-stop shop that provides business customers with the full spectrum of services, enabling solutions that are tailor-made to meet individual needs (products, accessories, fittings, finance, used vehicles, servicing and maintenance, mobility, etc.). Time is money, and vehicle downtime can have serious consequences for the business customer. This is why Renault seeks to provide bespoke solutions and job times that can’t be beaten. Renault is forever listening to its customers.
"Today, thanks to our extremely wide range and the approval agreements we have in place with coachbuilder partners to extend it even further still, Renault is in a position to fulfil all the needs of business customers – with no exceptions!"
14. THE RENAULT PRO+ NETWORK:
TAILOR-MADE SERVICES FOR PROFESSIONALS
As Europe's leading van manufacturer for the past 12 years, with a market share of 14.8 per cent in 2009, Renault is pursuing its strategy of distribution to business customers with the launch of the Renault Pro+ network in 20 countries across the world. Based on the principle of a one-stop shop, it offers practical, efficient solutions tailored to meet the needs of each customer.
Renault has taken its determination to expand the range of services it provides its business customers a further step forward in the form of the Renault Pro+ network.
This network seeks to provide five essential services:
- The availability of professional, brand-trained sales and after-sales specialists, plus dedicated sales and after-sales reception areas for business customers staffed by commercial vehicle experts.
- High visibility for products from the Renault LCV range, including vehicle conversions. Business vehicles, included bodied vehicles are very widely represented.
- A one-stop shop for LCV-related services: new and used vehicle sales, specialised accessories and fittings, conversions, finance solutions, servicing and mobility contracts, leasing, etc. Test drives of commercial vans and passenger carriers are systematically proposed with no need for a prior appointment. Price quotes for new vehicles are prepared within 48 hours, while an after-sales specialist is present whenever a new vehicle is handed over.
- A proactive, flexible organisation equipped to handle vehicles of up to seven tonnes: speedy customer support, agreed job times, and promises that are met. Workshop opening hours have been extended to meet the needs of business customers. Problems are diagnosed within the hour and vehicles are serviced within eight working hours with no need for a prior appointment in order to allow business customers carry on their activity. When repair work is required, the Renault Pro+ network pledges to provide customers with a detailed quote within four hours, as well as the date at which the vehicle will be returned.
- Operational profitability thanks to a thorough understanding of the individual requirements of each profession. Should a vehicle have to be immobilised, the Renault Pro+ network can provide alternative mobility solutions, including the availability of a replacement vehicle of the same type. The Renault Pro+ network's constant bid to optimise the services it provides helps customers maximise the time they spend focusing on their business activity.
Renault has established national Renault Pro+ centres which work closely with a selection of Renault-approved coachbuilders in each country, and which provide their know-how and sales support to the local network and, if necessary, to the end customer. These centres showcase Renault's unique expertise in the field of production commercial vehicles and conversions for business customers.
In the course of 2009, Renault opened 66 Renault Pro+ centres in 14 countries. The network's international expansion will be stepped up further still in 2010, both within and outside of Europe. For Renault, the target for 2012 is to have a network of 400 Renault Pro+ centres capable of meeting the needs of its business customers.
15. COMMERCIAL VEHICLES WITH A CLEANER ENVIRONMENTAL CONSCIENCE
The Renault eco2 signature has been extended to cover the brand's full commercial vehicle range
The launches of the Renault eco² and Dacia eco² signatures in May 2007 and September 2008 respectively marked the beginning of a dialogue between Renault and its customers around the complete lifecycle of vehicles, from their design through to end-of-life recycling. The Renault group's aim is to offer affordable, more ecologically-friendly mass-market solutions.
Renault has today extended the Renault eco² signature to include its commercial vehicle range in a bid to highlight the ongoing efforts it is making to reduce the environmental impact of its products. The Renault eco² signature now applies across the full range of passenger cars, commercial vehicles, panel vans and compact vans.
Renault eco²: three criteria that can be measured and verified
For a commercial vehicle to qualify for the Renault eco² signature:
- it must be manufactured in an ISO 14001-certified factory. This certification recognises a production plant's ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental impact (reduced water and energy consumption, reduced visual and noise pollution, reduced atmospheric and wastewater discharges, and the sorting and recoverability of waste materials).
- It must emit less than 195g of CO2 per kilometre (vans), or run on B30 (30 per cent biodiesel) or E85 (85 per cent bioethanol) fuel. Renault aims to reduce the CO2 emissions threshold of 195g/km by 10g/km every two years with a view to reaching 150g/km by 2020. The threshold for compact vans is the same as that for passenger cars, i.e. 140g/km.
- At least five per cent of the plastics it contains must be sourced from recycling. This threshold of five per cent will be progressively ratcheted up to reach 20 per cent by 2020. Meanwhile, a minimum of 85 per cent of the vehicle's mass must be recyclable, and 95 per cent must be recoverable.
Affordable, more environmentally friendly commercial vehicles
With the extension of the Renault eco2 signature to include all the models that make up its commercial vehicle range, Renault is broadening the dialogue already begun in the area of passenger cars. Renault is thus the first manufacturer in the world of commercial vehicles to engage with business operators concerning the full lifecycle of its vehicles. The move will highlight the environmental aspects of running panel vans and compact vans. It will also help encourage companies to monitor progress in this field, especially with regard to CO2 emissions. The first Renault eco² New Master will reach the market in the second half of 2010, powered by a 2.3 dCi engine.
Finally, Renault's range of Z.E. (zero-emission) commercial vehicles has seen the brand take a further important step in its mission to protect the environment.
CARMINAT TOMTOM® NAVIGATION AND COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
In 2010 Renault brought new levels of functionality with built-in navigation systems costing around £450 and available across its entire model line-up, including commercial vehicles. These systems can contribute to minimising fuel consumption, and therefore CO2 emissions. Thanks to IQ RoutesTM technology, which is based on the real-world driving experience of millions of other road users, drivers are guided to their destination by the most efficient route. The Renault Carminat TomTom® system computes routes based on actual traffic patterns, taking the time of day and diversions notified by other drivers into account. Now incorporating the Advanced Lane Guidance function, the display indicates the correct lane and offers an accurate, realistic panoramic birds-eye view of junctions and road signs.
Following the recent launches of several car versions including TomTom as standard, the entire range will benefit from these innovations in 2010.