The commercial vehicle manufacturer MAN Truck & Bus has, in the context of presenting the renewed Next Level generation of its transporter TGE, introduced new versions in the upfitting business. The three-sided tipper TRIGENIUS from Meiller and the tractor-trailer combination with a box body from BE-Combi are the new additions to the van division. Ex works, there are now 13 different body-building options available. The fitted-out vehicles are covered by warranties and can be ordered directly by the customer, from a single source.
BE-Combi: With a car driver's license up to seven tons
An innovative concept for logisticians is the BE-Combi. Here the van with a 3.5-ton GVW is paired with a 3.5-ton trailer. The bodybuilder BE Combi converts the TGE with a subframe, semi-trailer coupling, air supply unit and an intelligent braking system into a tractor unit. Added is the single-axle trailer 3500PLUS from BE-Combi with a lightweight box body from the manufacturer Junge, a tail lift and a roof spoiler. The tractor-trailer combination has a gross train weight of seven
tons. The highlight of this combination: drivers only need a BE license, i.e., no Class C license. The system offers a payload of around 2,650 kilograms and a loading volume of up to 28 cubic meters, enabling the transport of ten Europallets. It is thus intended as an alternative to the 7.5-tonner, the manufacturer says. Safety features such as ABS and ESP are transferred to the trailer.
Meiller Trigenius: Weight-optimized three-sided tipper
The Trigenius from Meiller also possesses innovative features. It is a robust, weight-optimized three-sided tipper made of Hardox steel with a high payload. The latter is achieved, among other things, by laser welding technology that bonds thin high-strength steels. In combination with a TGE with 3.5-ton GVW, the customer can load up to 951 kg. With a 5.5-ton TGE, it is up to 2,600 kg. In addition, the model features new 1-ton tie-down lugs on the side walls for securing goods protruding over the side walls, as well as floor tie-downs with a holding force of two tonnes, located far
outward and accessible from both the outside and inside. The side wall latches, steps and fenders on the Munich-based tipper specialist have also been redesigned.
Certified Upfit Manufacturers
With the new Certified Van Partner program, MAN Truck & Bus, like many van manufacturers currently, establishes a binding quality framework for collaboration with upfit and conversion manufacturers. The aim is to safeguard the diversity of individual vehicle solutions based on the TGE with clear standards and to strengthen cooperation with qualified partners. The certification is carried out by the Upfit Manufacturer Management Van and is based on a multi-stage testing process. Among other things, the quality of the finished vehicle, the successful completion of a compliance check according to factory specifications, and the completeness and upkeep of the company profile on the MAN Upfit Manufacturer platform ABBI are evaluated, the Munich-based company outlines. Only those who meet all criteria receive the certificate — valid for three years. Ongoing monitoring and spot-check quality controls ensure the sustainability of the program.
„As a truck manufacturer,
we have maintained a close relationship with the upfit manufacturers for decades. With the Certified Van Partner Program, we are now creating a solid foundation for quality, efficiency and trust – to the benefit of our van customers and partners,“ says Roy Tietze, Head of Upfit Manufacturer Management Van at MAN Truck & Bus.
The innovations in the specialized bodywork are part of the introduction of the revised transporter generation called "Next Level," which comes with significantly expanded standard equipment, improved driver assistance, safety and infotainment as well as telematics connectivity. These had already been presented last year. However, there will be no electric version ahead of the successor. This had also been discontinued at MAN due to the termination of the technical twin e-Crafter at VW Nutzfahrzeuge.
Upfitting business of the MAN TGE:
- Supplier of shelving systems: Bott/Sortimo
- Fresh-service van outfitting: Kerstner
- Van (Basic/Shuttle/Mobility) 8+1 seats: MAN Individual
- Minibus Intercity: 19+1 seats Altas
- Minibus Coach: 16+1 seats Altas
- Box van (with/without tail lift): BE-Combi/Junge/Spier
- Tail lift for panel van: Bär Cargolift
