James Kemball adds 16 Renault T480 Turbo Compound trucks to UK container fleet

Container haulier James Kemball Ltd has added 16 new Renault Trucks T480 6×2 tractor units to its national fleet, bringing their total count to over 500 vehicles. These new trucks, fitted with Renault’s Turbo Compound DE13 engines, are now operating out of the company’s Felixstowe depot to support container transport across the UK.

The T480’s Turbo Compound engine tech offers better torque and improved responsiveness — especially handy for long-distance hauls where fuel economy and pulling power matter.

The trucks also feature Smart Torque Control and Optivision FUEL ECO, which help the truck shift more efficiently by reading road topography. Combined with ECO Cruise Control and Optiroll, the trucks are geared toward getting the most out of every litre of diesel.

Stephen Baalham, operations director at James Kemball, said: “This investment forms part of our continued focus on efficiency, reliability and sustainability. We selected the T480s with Turbo Compound for their fuel economy, the overall vehicle specification, combined with an attractive deal from Renault Truck Commercials.”

Driver comfort was a priority in the spec, with four-point cab air suspension, heated and ventilated seats, air con, memory foam mattress topper, fridge, microwave and an upgraded interior. Aerodynamic roof and side deflectors were also added to help with fuel use.

Safety features include Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Forward Collision Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Feedback on the new units has been positive so far. “The early figures from these trucks are encouraging on longer journeys, and feedback from drivers has been equally positive – both in terms of comfort and drivability,” Stephen added.

All 16 trucks are covered by a full repair and maintenance deal, with servicing handled by Renault Truck Commercials in Felixstowe. Optifleet is also fitted across the fleet to track performance and support decision-making on the go.