Renault is giving broad hints to the look of its forthcoming pickup truck, with the unveiling of the Alaskan concept.
The Alaskan previews a production model, due to be revealed in the first half of 2016 and sharing significant parts of its architecture with Nissan’s latest Navara and the first pickup that will be offered by Mercedes-Benz.
Moving into the market is important to Renault’s growth prospects, the sector accounting for one third of all global light commercial sales. The French state brand has already launched such a vehicle in South America, the Duster Oroch which was unveiled in June 2015.
The Alaskan offers a one-tonne payload capacity but also sporty styling to appeal on more than practicality. Its designers describe it as a ‘work hard, play hard’ all-road vehicle designed to meet the requirements of three different worlds: business and leisure use, plus everyday motoring.
Power for the concept comes from the four-cylinder turbodiesel used in the Master van but Renault says the production version, which will share the same basic look, size and style, will be offered with a wide range of powertrains.
Alongside its pickup the brand will launch Renault Pro+, a specialist network for its LCV users offering services ranging from advertising to aftersales.
According to the brand’s Global Head of LCVs Ashwani Gupta Pro+ expert brand forms an integral part of Renault plans to become a top global LCV market player.
“We are now equipped to take our Global Growth Plan forward and fulfil 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”, Gupta says.
Renault’s Alaskan pickup truck concept on video…
