After the April upgrade to the interior and cab of the T, T High, C and K ranges, Renault has turned its attention to improving the engines.
The manufacturer is equipping these trucks with new DE11 and DE13 Step E engines. Coupled with the integration of advanced technologies, such as Turbo Compound, and dedicated services, the manufacturer claims a potential reduction in consumption of up to 10%.
OPTIMAL EFFICIENCY OF THE NEW DE11 AND DE13 ENGINES
The new generation of Renault Trucks Euro VI Step E engines, the DE11 and DE13, incorporate new technologies that should significantly reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
For improved combustion, the DE11 and DE13 engines feature patented Wave Piston technology. By redirecting the flames inside the combustion bowl, this solution allows better use of available oxygen and therefore better combustion. The engines are also equipped with new injectors with improved precision, which are adapted to the new combustion.
To improve efficiency, Renault Trucks has also focused on reducing frictional losses: connecting rods, pistons and the crankshaft have been redesigned and crankcase gas control has been optimised. A new high-performance ball-bearing turbocharger with improved response time and a variable flow oil pump combined with low-viscosity oil have also been developed.
Last but not least, Renault Trucks has opted for an optimised post-treatment system and a new engine control unit.
TURBO COMPOUND TECHNOLOGY FOR A MORE POWERFUL AND FUEL-EFFICIENT ENGINE
For optimum performance, the Renault Trucks T, T High and C can be fitted as an option with the DE13 TC engine, featuring Turbo Compound technology, which provides significant fuel savings without compromising manoeuvrability or commercial speed.
An additional turbine, positioned downstream of the turbocharger, converts the residual energy contained in the exhaust gases into mechanical energy and transmits it to the crankshaft in the form of additional engine torque.
Turbo Compound therefore allows higher levels of torque to be achieved at lower engine speeds. On the motorway, under cruise control, and when driving uphill, a constant speed can be maintained without the need to downshift.
A NEW GEARBOX FOR FASTER SHIFTING
The vehicles are equipped with the new generation Optidriver gearbox, which incorporates a new calculator, new control software and a new clutch actuator for smoother and faster gear changes.
ADVANCED SOFTWARE AND SERVICES FOR TOTAL CONTROL OF FUEL CONSUMPTION
For greater fuel savings, Renault Trucks has also opted for the Smart Torque Control solution, which maximises the time spent in the zone with the best engine efficiency, without penalising manoeuvrability.
Renault Trucks is also continuing to improve the Optivision predictive cruise control, which uses the topography of the road to optimise gear shifting and boost fuel savings.
The manufacturer also offers solutions to support transporters in their efforts to monitor and improve their fleet’s fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The Optifleet fleet management software (Check module) tracks the fuel consumption of each vehicle and analyses driving styles in order to pinpoint areas where action can be taken to reduce consumption. In addition, Renault Trucks has developed a complete training programme on the principles of rational driving to ensure that fuel consumption is kept under control.