Renault tractorheads
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.
T range: models and engines
- Renault T 460: DTI 11 engine, 10.8 litres, 460 HP and 2,200 Nm. Ideal for national and international transport with semi-trailers up to 40 tonnes. Average consumption of 28-30 L/100 km.
- Renault T 480: DTI 13 engine, 12.8 litres, 480 HP and 2,400 Nm. Higher torque than the DTI 11, recommended for hilly routes and heavy loads. The best-selling model in the range.
- Renault T 520: DTI 13 at maximum power, 520 HP and 2,550 Nm. For heavy transport and vehicle combinations. The DTI 13 achieves maintenance intervals of up to 150,000 km.
- Renault T High: Raised cab (2,070 mm interior height) with flat floor. Maximum comfort for drivers living in the cab for weeks. Available with all T engines.
Optidriver transmission
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.
Renault T vs T High: key differences
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.