Now that’s a surprise: Renault has unveiled a pickup truck concept which previews a global production model scheduled to launch in the first half of 2016.

While the Duster Oroch launched earlier this year is destined for South American markets, the one-tonne pickup previewed by the Alaskan concept will be built for a global audience. The production model will have similar design and dimensions with the Alaskan Concept and will offer a broad range of body types and powertrains. Renault describes it as “a high-end pick-up for business and leisure use, as well as for everyday motoring.”

The Renault Alaskan Concept combines a payload of one tonne with dynamic styling highlighted by an attractive front-end styling which incorporates Renault’s latest design cues and the prominent wheel arches filled with 21-inch wheels.

Other striking design details include the sculpted bonnet, full-LED lighting signature with C-shape turn indicators, central aluminum exhaust tail pipe, satin-effect, brushed and polished metal finishes as well as blue and yellow detailing on the door mirrors, brake calipers, wheel rim centers and front tow hook.

The study is powered by Renault’s four-cylinder, twin-turbo diesel engine which is also offered in the Trafic and Master vans. The longitudinally-mounted twin turbo powertrain is lighter than average equivalent engines and is said to deliver “outstanding acceleration performance, plus class-topping fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.” No figures were released, but on the Trafic van the 1.6-liter twin-turbo diesel produces 160PS (158hp) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque.

Renault says the Alaskan Concept is designed to meet the requirements of three different worlds: business and leisure use as well as everyday motoring. For business users, the Alaskan offers a strong chassis, high ground clearance, a payload of more than one tonne with five passengers onboard and a long, wide load bed incorporating three longitudinal recesses suitable for fixing equipment.

The truck is also described as suitable for leisure use, as the bed can comfortably accommodate mountain bikes, camping gear, surfboards and other sports accessories. The Alaskan also offers a range of outdoor accessories (load bed liners, covers), latest generation equipment and connectivity features, as well as a camera located inside the door mirror housings to allow the filming of passing landscapes.

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