Eight months in development and seven months of testing resulted in savings of 3.5 litres of fuel and 9kg of CO2 per 100km, says Renault, with the test vehicle equipped with aerodynamics, new drivetrain, tyres and communication technology.
The Urban Lab 2 vehicle was produced by Renault Trucks with help from six partners, as part of the EDIT (Efficient Distribution Truck) project.
The Urban Lab 2 and the reference vehicle were tested on a cycle comprising 12km of urban roads, 50km regional and 57km on motorways.
The Lamberet refrigerated body included evaporators fitted into the roof, with the refrigeration unit installed in the wheelbase. Aerodynamic features included rear spoilers, retractable textile side deflectors, streamlined wheel covers, and deflectors on the roof, spoiler and cabin sides. Cameras replaced conventional wing mirrors.
A combination of micro-hybrid and stop-start technologies were used on the test vehicle, designed with Valeo.
BeNomad’s onboard navigation system included a traffic light communication system, which enables Urban Lab 2 to receive information from traffic lights and calculate whether it is more efficient to accelerate or brake.
Michelin prototype tyres were used, which aim to reduce rolling resistance without negatively impacting safety, grip or lifespan.
Renault Trucks says that while the Urban Lab 2 is not designed to be marketed in its current form, certain technologies may be integrated into production vehicles.