Renault at Interbuild 2008

Following the success of New Kangoo Van’s UK debut at this year’s CV Show, Renault will be building momentum for the new range among a more specialist audience at the Interbuild 2008 show at the NEC Birmingham.

Ahead of the official UK launch of both New Kangoo Van and Kangoo Compact next month, taking centre stage at the company’s stand, Hall 4 E40, will be the likely best-seller, New Kangoo Van ML19 dCi 85+.

For the first time, Europe’s best-selling compact van will be available in two bodystyles to meet the exacting requirements of the professional customer. Whether it be the compact dimensions and agility of the Kangoo Compact in the cut and thrust of the urban environment, or the greater payload (650 to 800kg in place of the former’s 500kg) and load volume (3m³ compared to 2.3m³ for its smaller sibling) of the Kangoo Van, both models are ideally suited to the demanding tradesman seeking a reliable, safe and well specified workhorse.

Several features on both models also ensure that daily use is as comfortable, practical and safe as can be in its class. Among them are a standard steel bulkhead for extra safety, security and reduced cabin noise, while a wide range of options are on offer to make driving and loading as easy as possible, including Bluetooth compatibility, sliding roof flap for taller loads, full load area ply lining and a multi-functional TunePoint system which allows USB keys and portable music players to be used via fingertip controls on the steering column without having to take eyes and wheel away from the job in hand.

Prices for New Kangoo Van and Kangoo Compact were announced last month, starting at £9,390 and £8,690 respectively, both excluding VAT and OTR charges.

Sharing the platform with the New Kangoo Van will be two additional vehicles from Renault’s extensive conversions range. The first is the tried and tested Master Tipper, with a rear tipping heavy duty ‘Scattolini’ body and electric/hydraulic powerpack. The second, a prototype Trafic Double Deck Tipper, is on show to gauge reaction ahead of potential launch in January 2009.

Following the positive response to the innovative Trafic Double Deck Dropside since launch, Renault is now enhancing its appeal by offering it as a tipper, making it arguably the perfect vehicle for builders who are looking for the ultimate solution to carrying building materials and tools. Offering two load spaces, one a large and traditional tipper body with a bed length of 2.5m, the other a spacious, secure and weatherproof lower deck with a depth of 260mm, it combines the best of both worlds to offer a dry, safe and secure storage area with an easy-to-use tipping combination.

The extra storage area is lockable and therefore particularly useful in terms of security for tools but also for protecting items and perishable supplies from the elements without the need for specialised tarpaulin. An easily accessible tool draw is also incorporated into the design. Available with a combined payload of 850kg, the new version offers a stylish and practical alternative to its bigger brother, the more established Master Tipper.

For more information, visit the Renault stand in Hall 4 or see renaultvans.co.uk