Renault is synonymous with motorhomes in Europe but less so here, where Fiat is the dominant marque in the cab-chassis supply to RV fabricators of Oz. Along with Iveco, Mercedes-Benz and even Ford in some rare cases, the Italian hauls thousands of units about the land – but it’s all about choice, right, and you can never have enough, apparently. That’s the thinking behind Sunliner’s decision to utilise the recently relaunched to Australia Renault Master cab-chassis, in particular to underpin its 40th Anniversary model (www.sunliner.com.au).
And with good reason. If you talk about choice, it’s one made by millions with Renault recording number one status as Europe’s light commercial (LCV) for 16 years.
The Master cab-chassis is available as a 4.5-tonne, rear-wheel drive 2.3-litre turbo-diesel (110kW/35Nm) platform that has a cab pre-cut in the roof and rear wall to readily accept any style of motorhome body – something championed by the Ducato. Increased power take off is a given in RV applications and as such the Master has a motorhome specific wiring loom to allow for increased body length, a 110 AH battery and a 185 amp alternator in addition to pre-wired switches for added ancillary equipment during the build.
All of this reduces development time and reduces costs – making the Renault attractive to RV manufacturers.
The attraction extends to the consumer, too. The engine is designed to deliver great fuel economy – and is Euro 5 compliant in terms of emissions – a quiet driving experience and comfort and safety for the cab occupants. Swivelling front seats are part of the design experience in current motorhome thinking. However, if this option is not ticked upon order there is the optional addition of side airbags to the suite of safety equip that encompasses ABS, frontal airbags, electronic stability control with rollover mitigation software and traction control as standard.
With a GVM of 4500kg and a towing capacity of 3000kg the potential touring combination is hugely varied, and an Eaton diff lock is an option to help with low traction situations.
Late last year Sunliner stated that it was proud to announce the partnership with Renault for the release of the 40th Anniversary model.
Nick Hunter, Sunliner MD said, “We are delighted to be working with Renault again. We believe that there are a lot of synergies between our two companies with a shared attitude of innovation and style. The car-like driving experience and superior fuel economy of the Renault Master made it fantastic choice for our anniversary model.”
Sunliner has packed this anniversary model full of innovations from past, present and the near future. “We worked closely with our suppliers and really leaned on them to give us their newest technology,” revealed Mr Hunter.
Highlights of this model are:
A drop bed system combined with a slide out wall, maximising usable space
Bluetooth lighting
Concealed TV with electric lift
Upholstered seat boxes with pull out storage
Side cabinet with electric lift up storage
State of the art climate control system
It could be said that the Sunliner 40th Anniversary model has been packed with European design and flair in a limited edition package on a new quality and proven European vehicle platform. This should offer unlimited potential.
For further information, please visit www.rvpages.com.au/recreational-vehicles/sales/campervans/sunliner.html
Alternatively, please visit www.renault.com.au and www.sunliner.com.au