Hubbry Logo
Renault MaxityRenault MaxityMain
Open search
Renault Maxity
Community hub
Renault Maxity
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Renault Maxity
Renault Maxity
Renault Maxity
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Renault Maxity
Overview
ManufacturerRenault
Production2007-2019
AssemblySpain: Ávila
Body and chassis
ClassTruck
Body styleTruck (standard cab)
RelatedNissan Cabstar
Nissan Atlas
Powertrain
EngineDiesel
2.5 I4
3.0 I4
Transmission5-speed manual
6-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,650 to 4,960 mm (104.3 to 195.3 in)
Width1,870mm
Chronology
PredecessorRenault Mascott

The Renault Maxity is a light commercial vehicle with a cab-over-engine style truck launched by the French manufacturer Renault Trucks in 2007.[1] The Maxity is nearly identical to the Nissan Cabstar, sharing the same drive-train and engine options and manufactured on the same Nissan owned production line in Ávila, Spain.[2] While the sharing of engines and production facilities is part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, the vehicle is sold by Renault Trucks which is owned by Volvo.[3]

Specifications

[edit]

In Europe the Maxity is available from 2.8 to 4.5-tonne versions, but only as a 3.4 or 3.5-tonner in Britain.[4] The Maxity is rear-wheel drive and powered with a choice of two diesel engines; a 2.5 L DXi2.5 in 110 bhp (82 kW; 112 PS) and 130 bhp (97 kW; 132 PS) states of tune, and a 3.0 L DXi3 turbo producing 150 bhp (112 kW; 152 PS). All are mated to a five-speed or six-speed manual transmission depending on specification.

In 2010, Renault Trucks trialled an electric version with a 2-tonne payload in Paris with drinks distributor Tafanel.[5] The prototype truck was developed in collaboration with electric commercial vehicle manufacturer PVI.[6]

The compact dimensions of the Maxity are promoted by Renault Trucks to emphasise the use in towns and cities, with a cab width of 1,870 mm (73.6 in), wheelbases ranging from 2,650 to 4,960 mm (104.3 to 195.3 in) depending on configuration, and a compact turning radius of 4.8 m (189.0 in).

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Renault Maxity

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Renault Maxity is a compact (LCV) with a cab-over-engine design, manufactured by primarily for urban delivery, town center distribution, and applications. Launched in , it was available as a in gross vehicle weight (GVW) ratings from 2.8 to 4.5 tonnes and served as a rebadged variant of the , sharing the same production line at Nissan's Ávila plant in under the Renault-Nissan alliance. Designed for urban agility with a compact and tight turning circle, the Maxity featured , independent front suspension, and options for diesel engines paired with manual transmissions. Standard features included , disc brakes, and ABS on select models, with cab configurations available in two- or four-door variants for professional use. In 2010, Renault Trucks debuted the Maxity Electric, its first all-electric LCV with a 57 kW motor, 225 Nm , 33 kWh , and up to 2-tonne , trialed in for zero-emission urban logistics by partners like drinks distributor Tafanel. This variant operated at speeds up to 100 km/h with no atmospheric pollution or noise. Production of the Maxity lineup concluded in alongside the cessation of light truck assembly at the Ávila facility, which shifted to parts .

History

Development

Renault Trucks initiated the development of the Maxity in the mid-2000s to fill a market gap for a light-duty cab-over-engine positioned between smaller panel vans like the Master and heavier rigid trucks in its lineup. Leveraging the Renault-Nissan alliance, the project involved close collaboration with , which developed and manufactured the vehicle on a shared platform with its Cabstar and Atlas models, allowing Renault Trucks to market it under its own branding through its dealer network. The development process spanned the mid-2000s, with design work finalized by late 2006 ahead of the vehicle's market introduction the following year. Engineering priorities centered on a rear-wheel-drive configuration for improved load handling, exclusive use of diesel powertrains to optimize and delivery, and tailoring the design for urban delivery applications in the 2.8- to 4.5-tonne gross segment. This initiative responded directly to European demand for compact, agile trucks ideal for congested operations, with early prototypes rigorously tested for payload performance and adherence to prevailing Euro 4 emissions regulations.

Launch

The Renault Maxity was officially launched in late January 2007 as a developed in collaboration with under the Renault-Nissan alliance. It was unveiled to the public at exhibitions, including its debut at the British Show in April 2007. Sales commenced in March 2007 across , with initial availability restricted to a 3.5-tonne gross vehicle weight model in the market, while continental offered variants spanning 2.8 to 4.5 tonnes to suit diverse urban needs. First customer deliveries began in the second quarter of 2007, aligning with the vehicle's compliance with Euro 4 emissions standards from launch. Renault Trucks targeted the Maxity at urban fleet operators, delivery services, and small businesses, including builders, landscape gardeners, and tree surgeons who require versatile vehicles for city-center operations and hilly terrains. The pricing strategy emphasized affordability and value, positioning the Maxity as a cost-effective option in the light segment without specific figures disclosed at initial announcement, to encourage adoption among budget-conscious operators. Marketing campaigns at launch focused on the vehicle's through its common-rail diesel engines, compact dimensions—500 mm shorter than many rivals—for enhanced maneuverability in congested urban areas, and reliable parts availability stemming from shared production in . These attributes were promoted to highlight the Maxity's suitability for frequent stop-start deliveries, such as refuse collection and refrigerated , establishing it as a benchmark for in the 3.5-tonne class.

Design

Cab and chassis

The Renault Maxity features a cab-over-engine layout, positioning the driver's compartment directly above the engine to maximize cargo space and achieve a compact overall footprint suitable for urban operations. This design contributes to a short turning circle of 9.6 meters on the shortest variant, enhancing maneuverability in tight environments. The employs a robust ladder-frame with U-profile side members, providing durability for light commercial duties while supporting a rear-wheel-drive configuration. The front has a capacity of 1,750 kg with , while the rear offers 2,200 kg capacity utilizing parabolic leaf springs and a rigid setup; higher-capacity rear axles up to 2,800 kg are available on select models for increased load handling. options include 2,500 mm for short configurations and up to 3,400 mm for longer variants, with an overall vehicle width of 1,870 mm and cab height measuring 2,135 mm. Cab options consist of a standard single two-door version or a double four-door crew cab, both designed with ergonomic considerations for driver comfort on extended shifts, including adjustable seating and a featuring analog gauges for essential readouts like speed, , and temperature. A hydraulic tilt mechanism allows the cab to forward-tilt for straightforward access to the compartment during maintenance. Safety features include (ABS) with (EBD) (standard on select models), disc brakes on all wheels, and driver and passenger airbags (available on higher trim levels); electronic stability program (ESP) available as an option on later models (from ).

Body configurations

The Renault Maxity offers a range of primary body configurations tailored for urban delivery and trades applications, including the for enclosed cargo transport, for custom installations, dropside for open loading, and tipping body for bulk . These options leverage the vehicle's compact cab-over-engine design to maximize load area while maintaining maneuverability in city environments. Customization possibilities enhance versatility, with the featuring door arrangements such as sliding side doors for easy side access and rear barn doors for straightforward loading. Insulation options are available to convert the into a refrigerated unit, suitable for temperature-controlled goods . The supports a variety of upfits, including flat platforms and tipping bins, allowing bodybuilders to adapt the to specific trade needs like or . Payload capacities reach up to 1,820 kg in standard setups, depending on the and gross vehicle weight rating. For bodies, load volumes typically range from 12 to 19 m³, depending on the and configuration, providing efficient space utilization for urban logistics without exceeding the vehicle's lightweight construction limits. The truck-style facilitates straightforward upfitting by bodybuilders, promoting compatibility with diverse bodywork while adhering to load distribution requirements. This design ensures compliance with European standards for securing loads during transit, enhancing safety for operators in demanding delivery scenarios.

Specifications

Engines

The Renault Maxity was equipped with a range of rear-mounted diesel engines designed for the configuration, optimizing space for urban delivery applications. These engines featured high-pressure common-rail and intercooled turbocharging to enhance efficiency and performance in city environments. The primary engine option was the 2.5 L DXi 2.5 inline-4 diesel, available in power outputs of 110 PS (82 kW; torque 250 Nm), 130 PS (96 kW; torque 270 Nm), or a later 140 PS (103 kW; torque 270 Nm) variant introduced to meet updated emissions requirements while maintaining strong low-end . For applications requiring greater power, the 3.0 L DXi 3 inline-4 diesel provided 150 PS (110 kW) and 350 Nm of , specifically developed to handle heavier loads in demanding urban and regional operations. At launch in 2007, all engines complied with Euro 4 emissions standards through advanced common-rail systems and turbocharging. By 2012, they were upgradable to Euro 5 compliance via the addition of diesel particulate filters (DPF), reducing particulate matter without significantly impacting performance or . From 2016, Euro 6 compliance was achieved with (SCR) technology on the 130 PS and 150 PS engines. Maintenance for the DXi engines emphasized extended service intervals, with changes recommended every 40,000 km under normal operating conditions, facilitated by the cab's tilt mechanism for straightforward access to the rear-mounted . These engines were often paired with manual transmissions for reliable power delivery in varied load scenarios.
EngineDisplacementPowerTorqueKey Features
DXi 2.52.5 L inline-4 diesel110 PS (82 kW), 130 PS (96 kW), or 140 PS (103 kW)250 Nm (110 PS), 270 Nm (130/140 PS)Common-rail injection, intercooled turbo, Euro 4/5 compliant with DPF upgrade; Euro 6 with SCR (later models)
DXi 33.0 L inline-4 diesel150 PS (110 kW)350 NmCommon-rail injection, variable geometry turbo, intercooled, for higher load needs; Euro 6 with SCR from 2016

Capacities and performance

The Renault Maxity features gross vehicle weight ratings (GVW) of 3.5 tonnes for standard European models and up to 4.5 tonnes for heavier configurations, while variants are typically limited to 3.4–3.5 tonnes to comply with regulations. capacities vary by model and , ranging from 1,100 to 1,820 kg, enabling efficient urban load handling without exceeding GVW limits. The integrates a , with a 5-speed gearbox standard for 2.5 L diesel engines and a 6-speed option for 3.0 L variants; no transmissions were offered, emphasizing and cost-effectiveness for commercial use. The suspension setup includes independent front suspension for improved maneuverability and parabolic springs at the rear for robust load support. Performance characteristics prioritize reliability over speed, with top speeds reaching 140–150 km/h and 0–100 km/h in 12–20 seconds across engine options, aided by standard ABS for enhanced braking safety in urban environments. Braked capacity extends up to 3,500 kg to support trailer applications.

Production

Manufacturing

The Renault Maxity was manufactured at the Nissan-operated plant in , , as part of the Renault-Nissan alliance, where production shared facilities with the model. This site, located in central and spanning 220,000 m², employed approximately 500 workers dedicated to light and medium-duty truck assembly. The plant's role in the alliance enabled efficient resource sharing, with the Maxity benefiting from Nissan's established infrastructure for cab-over-engine vehicles. The production process followed a streamlined that integrated , , bodywork, assembly, and final trim stages. This line utilized 21 industrial robots to enhance precision and speed in key operations, such as body panel joining and painting application. Components, including engines and transmissions, were sourced from shared Renault-Nissan suppliers to maintain consistency and cost efficiency across models. Quality control at the Ávila plant adhered to ISO 9001 standards for systems, ensuring consistent processes from supplier inputs to final . Rigorous testing was conducted to verify long-term reliability under demanding conditions like heavy load cycles and varied terrains. Production was export-oriented, primarily serving European markets and select international regions through ' distribution network.

Timeline and volumes

The Renault Maxity entered production in 2007 at Nissan's Ávila plant in Spain, with the vehicle launched at the end of January and initial deliveries beginning in the second quarter. Early production ramped up quickly, with 4,110 units delivered from January to August 2007 alone. Sales figures for 2008 reached 6,507 units, marking a peak period in the late 2000s as the model gained traction in urban delivery applications. A key milestone occurred in 2010 with the introduction of the Maxity Electric, ' first fully electric , which underwent real-world trials including urban payload deliveries in . In early 2012, the Maxity received an engine upgrade to comply with Euro V emissions standards, featuring a new 150 hp DXi 3-liter equipped with a and high-pressure injection for improved efficiency and urban suitability. Production volumes began to decline in the mid-2010s amid shifting market demands, with combined output of the Maxity and its Nissan NT400/500 counterpart falling below 19,000 units at the plant in 2016. By 2019, ' overall sales, including the Maxity, totaled 18,148 units across . Manufacturing of the Maxity ceased in September 2019 at the facility, driven by low volumes and the high costs of adapting to impending Euro VI regulations.

Variants

Standard models

The Renault Maxity standard models comprise a range of diesel-powered light commercial vehicles tailored for urban delivery and distribution tasks, emphasizing maneuverability and payload efficiency. The primary variant is the Maxity 35, rated at 3.5 tonnes gross (GVW), which forms the basis for most configurations and is specifically adapted for the market with right-hand drive steering to meet local driving regulations. Engine choices for the Maxity 35 include the 2.5 DXi in 110 PS and 130 PS outputs, alongside the more powerful 3.0 DXi variant delivering 150 PS, all paired with a five- or six-speed for reliable performance in city environments. To accommodate varying load requirements, long-wheelbase options are available, including the L2 (2,900 mm ) and L3 (3,400 mm ) versions, which support higher payloads reaching up to 1,820 kg while maintaining the vehicle's compact footprint for tight urban navigation. Trim levels cater to different operator needs, starting with the base Dynamic specification, which prioritizes driver essentials such as dual airbags, electric windows, remote central locking, and adjustable steering. The mid-level Advantage trim enhances comfort with standard air conditioning, while premium packages incorporate advanced features like cruise control and navigation systems for extended routes. European specifications extend beyond the UK model to include 4.5-tonne GVW variants, enabling greater load capacities for continental markets where heavier-duty applications are common. The Maxity shares its underlying platform with the Nissan Cabstar, facilitating shared components and production efficiencies under the Renault-Nissan alliance.

Electric prototype

In 2010, Renault Trucks developed a limited-production of the Maxity for zero-emission urban delivery applications, in collaboration with PVI for the and EDF for energy support; approximately 20 units were produced and used in trials and long-term rentals in . This 100% electric model replaced the diesel with an asynchronous and lithium-ion batteries, aiming to reduce noise and emissions in city centers. The model was designed for short-haul , leveraging the base Maxity's compact cab-over-engine adapted for battery integration. The electric Maxity featured a 47 kW asynchronous motor producing 270 Nm of , enabling a top speed of 90 km/h (often limited to 70 km/h for efficiency) and a of up to 2 tonnes. Its 42 kWh provided a range of approximately 100 km under typical urban conditions, supported by to recover energy during stops common in delivery routes. The included a robotized six-speed gearbox and required only a standard B-category license despite its 4.5-tonne gross weight, thanks to exemptions for electric vehicles. The model underwent trials in starting in May 2010 with Paris-based drinks distributor Tafanel, performing daily urban delivery rounds for six hours without reliability issues. Operators reported positive experiences with its silent operation and low maintenance needs, covering over 100,000 km collectively across early units by 2012. Equipped for real-world logistics like fourgon or tipper configurations, it demonstrated viability for inner-city use but was not widely commercialized due to high upfront costs and nascent charging infrastructure. This effort influenced Renault's subsequent electric lineup, including the Master Z.E. . In 2015, a variant with a was tested, featuring a 20 kW and two 75-liter tanks storing 4 kg of , extending the operating range to 200 km. This hybrid was trialed by La Poste and Express for urban logistics under real operating conditions.

References

  1. https://www.commercialmotor.com/news/article/the-low-down-on-the-new-renault-maxity
  2. https://www.commercialmotor.com/news/article/renault-unveils--tonne-maxity
  3. https://www.whatvan.co.uk/van-reviews/renault-maxity-february-2007/
  4. https://www.renault-trucks.com/en/electromobility
  5. https://www.wardsauto.com/news/archive-wards-nissan-ending-spain-truck-production-after-40-years/790350/
  6. https://www.fleetnews.co.uk/news/2007/2/7/maxity-joins-renault-range/23996/
  7. https://www.commercialmotor.com/news/article/new-maxity-joins-renaults-cv-line-up
  8. https://global.nissannews.com/en/releases/070123-01-e
  9. https://www.volvogroup.com/en/news-and-media/news/2007/jan/news-16237.html
  10. https://www.fleetnews.co.uk/news/2006/11/7/maxity-launch/23300/
  11. https://autogidas.lt/en/auto-katalogas/renault/maxity/150.35-l3-2007-2011-k69084
  12. https://www.trucksplanet.com/index.php?page=130
  13. https://www.volvogroup.com/en/news-and-media/news/2007/feb/news-18130.html
  14. https://www.scribd.com/document/881717666/RT-Maxity-1
  15. https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/view/24291121/rt-maxity-1
  16. https://www.calameo.com/books/001985635d97b2eb06858
  17. https://www.jaltest.com/en/coverage/1/5/12507/truck-diagnostics/renault-diagnostics/maxity-euro-6-diagnostics/
  18. https://www.used-renault-trucks.com/l/lcv-renault_trucks-maxity
  19. https://www.scribd.com/document/707584596/truckmanualshub-com-Nissan-Cabstar-NT400-Technical-Specifications
  20. https://www.trucksplanet.com/index.php?id=485
  21. https://www.ilmondodeitrasporti.com/upload/mondotrasporti_pdf/luglio_1404810388.pdf
  22. https://www.gantuning.com/chiptuning/renault/maxity/dxi3-150hp/
  23. https://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/renault-maxity-euro-6-compact-lightweight-sturdy/
  24. https://test-oilfinder.eurolub.com/light-commercial-vehicles-7-5t/renault-eu/maxity-2008-2016/maxity-120-dxi-euro-v-2012-2016
  25. https://www.truck1.eu/trucks/renault/maxity
  26. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/257158376541
  27. https://www.gantuning.com/chiptuning/renault/maxity/dxi2-5-110hp/
  28. https://www.tridenttowing.co.uk/products/fixed-flange-towbars-renault-maxity-pickup-2007-tn15-tow-trust
  29. https://europe.nissannews.com/en-GB/releases/nissan-in-spain
  30. https://www.auto-revista.com/texto-diario/mostrar/4707632/constant-reinvention-with-own-design-and-development-solutions
  31. https://www.nissan-global.com/EN/SUSTAINABILITY/LIBRARY/SR/2022/ASSETS/PDF/SR22_E_P124-132.pdf
  32. https://www.renault-trucks-oils.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/PLAQUETTE-GAMME-RTO-EN.pdf
  33. https://www.volvogroup.com/en/news-and-media/news/2007/sep/news-29163.html
  34. https://www.volvogroup.com/content/dam/volvo-group/markets/global/classic/investors/reports-and-presentations/annual-reports/Volvo-Group-Annual-Report-2008-EN.pdf
  35. https://www.planet-trucks.com/truck-news/a37776/renault-maxity-lcv-light-truck
  36. https://www.inovev.com/index.php/zh/market-analyses/category-blog/12811-2017-14-1
  37. https://www.renault-trucks.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/renault-trucks-maintains-its-positions-2019-turbulent-market
  38. https://picclick.co.uk/Renault-Maxity-Nissan-Cabstar-crew-cab-tipper-truck-184663347299.html
  39. https://www.caradisiac.com/Un-Renault-Maxity-electrique-adopte-par-les-Etablissements-Tafanel-56396.htm
  40. https://www.auto-infos.fr/article/le-premier-maxity-electrique-paye-sa-tournee.186389
  41. https://www.avem.fr/2012/09/26/camion-electrique-le-renault-maxity-electrique-cumule-100-000-km/
  42. https://www.largus.fr/actualite-automobile/le-renault-maxity-electrique-travaille-185689.html
  43. https://www.avem.fr/2011/05/19/le-renault-maxity-electrique-teste-par-tafanel-affiche-de-bons-resultats/
  44. https://www.volvogroup.com/en/news-and-media/news/2017/jan/la-poste-chooses-an-electric-truck-from-renault.html
  45. https://evobsession.com/french-post-office-renault-trucks-introducing-ev-truck-hydrogen-powered-range-extender/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.