A newly-accredited Renault Master conversion has joined the fleet of a major grounds maintenance and landscaping company.
Idverde UK has ordered eight closed deck beavertail conversions as part of a total order of 40, which also includes Master panel vans and tippers.
The closed deck beavertail conversion is based on the Renault Master FWD 3.5-tonne chassis cab (ML35) and is completed by Advanced KFS – the latest addition to a list of more than 30 converters accredited by Renault.
The bodystyle is said to appeal to Idverde due to the ease of moving machinery it offers and operatives being able to drive one without a special licence, with the firm expecting to add up to another 40 in the year ahead.
The vehicles will be used for grounds maintenance services provided to the public sector, including grass cutting, hedge trimming, planting area maintenance and tree surgery.
The conversion includes an aluminium bulkhead, floor and both dropside and solid side panelling, a spring assisted aluminium tailgate, high level LED lighting, an LED compact light bar, strobe lights and side marker lights; and a folding directional sign located on the rear tailgate.
The vehicles are based on Business trim, and powered by a 130hp diesel engine, which is paired with six-speed manual transmission.
Idverde UK group head of assets and fleet Angus Lindsay said: “The 3.5t market is vast and, to be honest, the costs of available vehicles are very similar, but if we can stick with one manufacturer and one vehicle that already meets, or which can be converted to cater for our needs, then it’s a massive plus in terms of convenience. The Renault Master allows us to do this.
“The Master works well for us, our operatives like the cabin space and our older versions have proved to be both reliable and durable. It simply does everything it’s meant to.
“Having the Master beavertail conversion makes it considerably easier for us to move machinery, especially as our operatives can drive it on a normal car licence.”
Renault UK managing director Vincent Tourette said: “We are exceptionally pleased that the benefits of the Renault Accredited Converter programme have provided them (Idverde) with a quality, bespoke vehicle that is tailored to their needs, yet which also comes with the ease-of-maintenance and aftersales support that is associated with a straightforward production LCV.”