Renault Trucks has started series production of its heavy duty electric trucks at its Bourg-en-Bresse plant.
The site has been assembling the brand’s trucks for 60 years and is now set to produce the Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C.
Designed for regional distribution and urban construction, the trucks are the latest addition to the French manufacturer’s all-electric range, which is the widest on the European market, ranging from 650kg (e-cargo bikes) to 44t.
To accommodate the manufacture of the trucks, Renault has invested in transforming and adapting its industrial facilities, as well as building the skills of its employees. The manufacturer is drawing on its experience of manufacturing medium-tonnage electric trucks at its Blainville-sur-Orne plant and applying the same precepts and best practices at Bourg-en-Bresse.
The Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C are assembled on the same line as their Diesel equivalents, after which they are transferred to a dedicated 5200m2 area – the Renault Trucks E-Tech Factory – where qualified operators and technicians carry out the technical operations specific to electrification, namely assembly of the Electric Drive Unit (EDU) and installation of the transmission and batteries. The electric vehicles then return to the series production process, with performance tests and track trials to guarantee their reliability and quality.
With a gross combination weight of up to 44 tonnes, the E-Tech T and C are available in 4×2 and 6×2 tractor versions, with a long cab and a wheelbase of 3900mm. In rigid configuration, they are available in 4×2, 6×2 and 8×4 tridem, short or long cab, with a choice of eleven wheelbases, ranging from 3900 to 6700mm.
The trucks can be equipped with two or three electric motors developing a combined power of up to 490kW (660hp).
The trucks can be fitted with four to six lithium-ion battery packs providing between 390 and 540kWh of power. They will be able to travel up to 300km on a full charge and up to 500km with an intermediate fast charge.
