Renault unveils the Alaskan concept, outlines plans for global LCV market

Renault has revealed the Alaskan concept, which is due to go on production during the first half of 2016. The Alaskan shall be the company’s first 1-tonne global pick-up. The Alaskan reflects Renault's growing offensive in the pick-up market, which contributes 40% of the global LCV sales. Around 17% of the pick-up truck sales come from the 1-tonne category.

The one-tonne Alaskan sports 21-inch wheels, full LED lighting and a large, prominent logo on the front grille. The pick-up is powered by four-cylinder, twin turbo diesel engine which features in the existing Master range. With a cabin space for five and highly furnished interiors, the Alaskan also features a camera in the door mirror to permit the filming of passing landscapes.

Commenting at the unveiling event, Ashwani Gupta, Vice-President, Global Head of LCVs said, “We are now equipped to take our Global Growth Plan forward and fulfill the aspirations of business users and individual LCV customers across the world thanks to an enhanced product line-up, new services and an upgraded customer experience.”

Renault Group, which has been number one in LCVs in Europe for 17 years along with strong positions in the South-American and African markets, Renault is also launching Renault Pro+. In addition to providing tailor-made products and services, the specialist Renault Pro+ network promises to deliver a satisfying experience for the business-user customers including advertising and after-sales service. 

Nissan and Renault together are developing the one-tonne pick-up truck for Renault which will share some of its architecture with the Nissan NP300. Nissan, Daimler, general motors Europe and Renault Trucks are banking on their strong partnership by sharing Renault LCV products, components and expertise.

Another recent newcomer to Renault's LCV partnership portfolio is Fiat. The Sandouville plant in Frabce is to build a traffic-based Fiat LCV from mid-2016 onwards.

Also read: Renault 'closely monitoring' Indian LCV market for entry