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Renault Trucks, a subsidiary of the Volvo Group since 2001, manufactures its tractor units at the Bourg-en-Bresse plant in France. The current range is built around the T series, launched in 2013 as the successor to the legendary Premium and Magnum ranges.
The 12-speed Optidriver automated gearbox (manufactured by Volvo) is among the smoothest and most efficient on the market. The Optivision system uses GPS and mapping to pre-select gears based on route profile. The Optidriver AT2612F version includes automatic neutral (Eco-roll) to reduce motorway fuel consumption.
The standard T has a day cab with low roof (1,980 mm interior). The T High raises the roof to 2,070 mm and offers a completely flat floor, wider bunk (800 mm) and more storage. Both versions share the same chassis and mechanicals — the difference is exclusively the cab.
The Renault T is the most cost-effective entry into Euro 6 international haulage: it shares its engine (DTI 13 = Volvo D13), gearbox (Optidriver = I-Shift) and rear axle with the Volvo FH, yet depreciates 10-15% faster — making it the used tractor unit with the best €/HP ratio on the market. It suits the owner-driver starting out, the fleet that prioritises cost-per-km over badge, and national or medium-distance work. A 4-5 year-old T 480 with 500,000-700,000 km sells today from EUR28,000-38,000, against EUR40,000+ for an equivalent FH. At Coatrucks we prioritise the T 480 as the most balanced engine and the strongest on resale.
The DTI 13 is reliable, but check specific points: the SCR system's AdBlue line and pump (Renault is prone to leaks under extreme use), the condition of the Optidriver's concentric clutch (the actuator is the typical failure beyond 800,000 km), and play in the prop shaft and T High cab mounts (they vibrate when worn). Request the Renault Trucks service history (150,000 km intervals) and verify the AdBlue has not been bypassed with an emulator — a practice that voids the MOT. The Renault Trucks network in Spain is dense and parts interchange with Volvo, lowering maintenance costs. Coatrucks cleans the DPF and verifies the SCR before every delivery.
