The 1000 Kg was originally presented in 1945 as a prototype light van designed for the military, and was offered for general sales from February 1947.

[2] Police versions gained the informal appellation “panier à salade” (“paddy wagon”), appearing in newsreels removing arrested suspects following instances of civil disturbance during the troubled 1950s or, more memorably for many United States and UK film-goers in the 1960s, removing Inspector Clouseau following his arrest in the wake of a successful bank raid.

In contrast to the rival Citroën H Van, Renault’s design applied a traditional approach, using a rear wheel drive layout and rigid axles.

Large wheels combined with a short wheelbase allowed for a tight turning circle and good ground clearance.

These features reflected plans for a four wheel drive version in anticipation of military sales and to deal with the poor state of many French roads, especially in the countryside, at this time.

In July 1949, a heavy duty 1,400 kg version joined the range, and this was also the year when four-wheel drive became an advertised option.

The Renault Colorale station wagon also used some mechanical parts alongside the engine from the 1 000 kg, which was made intentionally in order to provide the vehicle with the same durability and reliability.

From the middle of 1962, Renault substituted a 2720 cc diesel engine of their own construction producing 61 PS (45 kW; 60 hp).