Renault Trucks has revealed details of testing processes for its new ‘K’ range of trucks, including a rigorous trial geared specifically for the Middle East’s construction sector.
The French truck manufacturer has built and tested 50 truck units worldwide, with the K range put through quality trials in Oman, before being introduced to the Middle East in November last year.
The K range was put through a 12-month trial period, where it was used to transport stone, sand and gravel over rough terrain and driven for more than 400km daily, for a total of 100,000km. The engine was able to pull 110 tons of sand in extreme heat conditions without any engine or gearbox overload, the manufacturer said in a statement.
“Our business is to provide a range of commercial vehicles for distribution, construction and long haul which all allow our customers to maximise productivity while reducing operational costs. Testing our products in real market conditions allows us to build vehicles that service our customers’ needs exactly,” said Lars Erik Forsbergh, president of Renault Trucks Middle East.
The manufacturer views the K range as being best suited to construction applications. The range is available in rigid configuration as 6×4 and 8×4 and is also obtainable in tractor head 4×2 and 6×4.
Apart from construction, Renault Trucks also sees potential in the distribution and long-haulage segments, an executive told Truck & Fleet ME.
“There is a growth in the long haulage segment, especially in Saudi Arabia; it represents 61% of the Saudi market. In Qatar and Oman, demand is rising due to the new road regulations, since companies will need more trucks to carry the same load as previously,” said Bassem Hassan, product manager at Renault Trucks Middle East.
A full interview with Bassem Hassan will be published in the March issue of Truck & Fleet ME
