Europa was supplied with the 11 new Range T artics, four Range D12 distribution rigids, seven new Range D18 rigids and one Range D26 rigid, all complete with repair and maintenance contracts, by East Midlands Renault dealership, RH Commercial Vehicles (RHCV), following a two-year trial of the trucks.
Having not previously operated Renault trucks within the fleet, the decision to invest in the marque was a significant change for Europa and came a result of the new cutting-edge fuel saving engines which reduce fuel consumption and maintenance costs, while ensuring a high degree of productivity, the company said.
The new trucks will maintain the reliability of Europa’s road operation, as it continues to deliver the best service for its UK and European customers. The new tractor units will be utilised in line with the company’s model of working double shifts, both day and night, to support the increase in Europa’s volume capacity and the expansion of its European service offering, which currently stands at 36 routes across the continent, 20 of which run daily.
All of Europa’s new trucks have front, rear and in-cab cameras and each rigid has a load securing system. This, paired with improved fuel returns, has ensured Europa’s fleet is amongst the most efficient and secure on the market, according to the company.
The investment follows a period of rapid growth for the company, averaging 25% across the board, with turnover recently breaking the £100 million mark, and set to increase to £116 million for 2016/17. The new trucks will support Europa’s ambitious plans for expansion, and are said to be the next stage in Europa’s strategy to modernise and simplify its road operation, following its £1.7m investment in its bespoke IT software, Leonardo.
Europa, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, also provides specialist air and sea, warehouse and showfreight services alongside its road operations.