R J & I Monkhouse marks milestone with Renault Trucks

Carlisle-based R J & I Monkhouse Ltd, has added the 35th Renault Trucks vehicle to its fleet, a 13-litre T520 6x2 Tag. This latest acquisition highlights the exceptional service provided by the dealer, Border Trucks, and the proven reliability of Renault Trucks. 

The addition of a new T520 6x2 marks another milestone in R J & I Monkhouse’ long-standing partnership with Renault Trucks and Border Trucks, which began in 2010 with the purchase of their first Premium model and has since grown to an 11-strong Renault Trucks excusive fleet. 

Managing Director, Stuart Monkhouse commented on the new addition: "Renault Trucks are reliable and have a good engine. We experience very little trouble with them, and on the rare occasions we do, Border Trucks resolves the issues promptly. This is why I haven’t bought anything but Renault Trucks for years.”

Stuart continued: “Our relationship with Border Trucks is the other key reason we continue to choose Renault Trucks. They are a good dealer, I know I can talk to the team there, they will make a decision, and everything gets sorted. If the truck needs to go in for repairs, they get it in quickly, fix it, and get it back on the road, ensuring we stay operational. The team go out of their way to help me out and that kind of support is priceless.”

The new T520 Tag is tasked with general haulage, pulling flat trailers and transporting materials including peat, timber, cement and steel. The decision to opt for a rear lift tag axle configuration was driven by the need for managing heavy loads and operating in difficult terrain in northern Scotland.

Stuart said: “The new T520 Tag copes well with our work in the top of Scotland, where we need a vehicle for the load capacity with ample grip and power. It handles the job comfortably, providing the traction needed for hills and challenging terrain; it just keeps going.”

The new T520 is powered by Renault Trucks’ 13 litre engine, producing 520hp and a peak torque of 2550 Nm from 990 rpm to 1400 rpm. The engine is connected to a 12-speed Optidriver AT 2612 gearbox and automatic clutch with gear shift strategy optimised for FUEL ECO and ECO Cruise control with Optiroll, for further control of fuel consumption. 

The vehicle has been specified with optional extras including roof-mounted twin air horns, side deflectors, luxury heated and ventilated driver’s seat, convertible top bunk, cab curtains, leather steering wheel and reversing camera. 

“Ensuring our vehicles keep moving is a top priority. Having reliable vehicles and dependable backup are crucial, and Renault Trucks, with the support of Border Trucks, consistently delivers on both counts,” concluded Stuart.