► Large muscular body with 21in wheels
► Powered by four-pot, twin-turbo diesel
► Production model will be unveiled in 2016
It seems that a number of manufacturers are tapping into the pick-up market these days, with good reason too: one-third of Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales are pick-ups and the UK’s the biggest market for them in Europe. So it comes as no surprise that Renault has unveiled a concept for its first truck – the Alaskan concept.
Powered by Renault’s four-pot twin-turbo diesel, the Alaskan is a concept for now, but a production model will follow in 2016 and Renault says the design and dimensions will follow suit. The production model will be unveiled during the first half of 2016, Renault has confirmed.
Another pick-up: what the Renault Alaskan concept has to offer
Renault says that the Alaskan concept is ‘the best of three worlds:’ business, leisure and motorway driving. The four-pot twin-turbo diesel engine powers the Alaskan and Renault claims strong performance, class-topping fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. It’s based on the Nissan Navara pick-up as part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance – and the forthcoming Merc ute will use the same underpinnings.
Renault has paid particular attention to the front end, with bonnet bulges providing a muscular look, and 21in wheels – a size more accustomed to a west-coast customs Escalade. Loading capability sits at one-tonne and there are compartments dashed about the loading bay for fixing down materials or hiding away items. The Alaskan concept is finished in a combination of satin-effect, brushed and polished metal finishes.
The 2016 production model will be available in a range of body types and powertrains, Renault says.