The TUV test measured the fuel savings on a 40-tonne Renault Range T430 4x2 Optifuel driven by two experienced drivers, both of whom received Optifuel Training by Renault Trucks instructors to optimise fuel-efficient driving behaviours.
Testing took place over a 200km route, with the vehicles carrying a 32-tonne load over three days.
A standard Renault Range T430 4x2 with no Optifuel options was used as the comparison vehicle, and was tested by the drivers before they received the training.
The TUV experts certified that, after driver instruction, the Renault Range T Optifuel consumed 10.9% less fuel than the standard Renault Range T.
The Optifuel version offers optimised configuration, with driveline matched to the DXi 11 Euro 6 engine, with Optidrive, 2.64 rear axle ratio and Michelin X Line low rolling resistance 315/70R22.5 tyres.
It is also equipped with Eco Pack – including Optiroll controlled freewheeling function, idle shutdown, E-cruise, variable ratio power steering pump and clutchable compressor – correctly set air deflector, lightweight alloy wheels and air tanks.
While the test was carried out on a Range T Optifuel 4x2 tractor in Europe, the results would be similar for a 44-tonne Range T460 Optifuel in the UK, asserts Nigel Butler, Renault Trucks’ UK commercial director.
“A Renault Range T Optifuel, optimised to reduce fuel consumption combined with Optifuel driver training, is proven to be significantly more fuel efficient,” he says.