“I wasn’t a fan initially, but then, by chance, I put a second-hand Renault Premium into the operation and that changed everything,” recalls Robert Keus, director of Freight Line Europe UK.
He describes the vehicle as “a very reliable workhorse”, covering 300,000km in 18 months.
“On the strength of this positive experience, I looked at Renault Trucks in a totally different light. I was really impressed by the new Range Ts – they are much improved and definitely good-looking trucks.”
A demo vehicle proved its worth, he adds, winning over even the hardest to please drivers.
The Ipswich-based operator’s new additions are Range T480 6x2 tractors, equipped with light bars, spotlights and colour-coded blue bumper, steps, grab handle and visor.
The Range T’s all-steel cab is also specified with a cataphoretic paint treatment for extra corrosion protection.
The cab’s three-step entry is “a clear advantage”, adds Keus, and is easy for his drivers to get in and out on multi-drop schedules.
In a first for the operator, it has taken the new vehicles on contract hire, through BRS, which includes full R&M support and road fund licence.
“We usually buy our trucks, so this was the first time we’ve used contract hire,” explains Robert. “But the deal on the table was substantially more attractive when you look at the costs over three years.”
Maintenance is through Norfolk Truck and Van, in Ipswich, which is located on the same site as Freight Line Europe UK.
“Together with the impressive vehicle, overall package and the dealer on our doorstep, it made perfect sense to choose Renault Trucks for our latest additions. As we’ve all been so impressed with Renault Trucks, I am also looking at the new Range T High for the future for some of our different work,” says Keus.