Renault Trucks has initiated series production of its heavy-duty electric trucks, the E-Tech T and C, at the Bourg-en-Bresse plant. With a legacy of assembling trucks for 60 years, the plant has adapted its facilities for the production of these 44-ton electric trucks designed for regional distribution and urban construction. The E-Tech T and C are the latest additions to Renault Trucks’ extensive all-electric range, covering applications from 650 kg (e-cargo bikes) to 44 t, making it the widest in the European market.
The Bourg-en-Bresse plant, operational since 1964, will now assemble the E-Tech T and C trucks. These additions to the manufacturer’s electric lineup aim to decarbonize urban and regional applications, showcasing Renault Trucks’ commitment to sustainability.
Industrial Transformation and Skills Development
To accommodate the production of the 44-ton electric trucks, Renault Trucks invested in transforming its industrial facilities and training its employees. Leveraging four years of experience in manufacturing medium-tonnage electric trucks, the company applies the same principles from its Blainville-sur-Orne plant to Bourg-en-Bresse.
The E-Tech T and C trucks are assembled on the same line as their diesel counterparts, followed by transfer to the Renault Trucks E-Tech Factory—a dedicated 5,200 m2 area. Here, qualified operators and technicians conduct specific electrification operations, including the assembly of the Electric Drive Unit (EDU) and installation of transmission and batteries. The vehicles then undergo performance tests and track trials to ensure reliability and quality before returning to the series production process.
Decarbonizing Urban and Regional Applications
The E-Tech T and C trucks cover a wide range of urban construction and regional distribution applications, transporting goods, materials, or industrial waste. The vehicles can adapt to various body styles, offering three types of power take-off (PTO): electric, electromechanical, or on the gearbox. This flexibility enables the decarbonization of new areas in urban and regional activities.
Specifications and Performance
The E-Tech T and C trucks, with a gross combination weight of up to 44 tonnes, are available in 4×2 and 6×2 tractor versions, featuring a long cab and a wheelbase of 3,900 mm. In rigid configuration, options include 4×2, 6×2, and 8×4 tridem, with a choice of eleven wheelbases ranging from 3,900 to 6,700 mm.
Equipped with two or three electric motors providing a combined power of up to 490 kW (660 hp), these trucks can be fitted with four to six lithium-ion battery packs, offering a power range between 390 and 540 kWh. Charging options include alternating current (AC) up to 43 kW or direct current (DC) up to 250 kW. The trucks have a travel range of up to 300 km on a full charge, extending up to 500 km with an intermediate fast charge lasting one hour (for a vehicle fitted with 6 battery packs).
The battery cells and modules are supplied by Samsung SDI and assembled in Ghent, Belgium, at a plant owned by the Volvo Group, of which Renault Trucks is a part.
