Renault Trucks will present the Hybrys at this month's RAI Show - a 6x2 concept hybrid refuse vehicle with numerous design features that could find their way onto production trucks. The vehicle features a DXi7 320hp engine with an electric motor drive system, which Renault says will be offered to local authorities as an alternative to diesel in the medium term.
It works by recouping the truck's kinetic energy during slowdown phases, transforming it into electrical form and storing it in
the batteries. As well as helping to drive the truck, it also powers the auxiliary equipment. This means the engine can be switched off whenever the truck is on stop. According to Renault, the result is a 35% reduction in fuel economy.
The Hybrys has been designed to maximise visibility, so features fully-integrated front and rear cameras, concept Vision doors and an asymmetric windscreen that bears more than a passing resemblance to a 1980s Leyland Roadrunner. The headlights have been built into the smooth front bumper, and are supposedly ideal for both driving in a straight line and travelling around bends.
The dashboard has a pair of digital displays one in front of the driver with all the usual information and another towards the centre of the truck for the camera displays and satellite navigation. The interior is fully washable thanks to the composite materials used in the molded rigid structure.
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