Man Lutons

The MAN Luton van has an impact on the commercial vehicle market, offering a blend of versatility and performance that meets the diverse needs of businesses. From removal companies to logistics firms, this vehicle provides solutions to address various transportation challenges. Its adaptable design and robust construction make it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient means of transporting goods.

This article delves into the key features of the MAN Luton van, exploring its versatility in action and examining its performance capabilities. It also looks at the TGE Range and conversion options, including tippers, flatbeds, and curtainsiders. Additionally, the piece covers safety features, pricing options such as finance lease and hire purchase, and the support provided by MAN Truck & Bus UK. By the end, readers will have a comprehensive understanding of what makes the MAN Luton van a standout choice in the commercial vehicle sector.

Overview of the MAN Luton Van

Key features and specifications

The MAN TGE Luton, available since 2017, rivals the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit in the commercial vehicle market. It offers a range of body and drivetrain options, making it ideal for dry freight or secure loads. The van uses MAN's best-in-class 2.0-litre diesel engine, available in four versions with power outputs ranging from 102hp to 177hp, and torque between 300 and 410 Nm.

The Gross Vehicle Weight of the MAN TGE Luton ranges up to 5.5 tonnes, with a maximum payload of 1,333kg for the 3.5t model. It comes standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, with an optional eight-speed automatic transmission available for enhanced efficiency.

Design and build quality

The MAN TGE Luton boasts a solidly-constructed design, well-suited for high-capacity courier work. Its driver's cab is comfortable, practical, and built to withstand long driving days. The interior features large, solid instruments, chunky stalk controls, and an intuitive infotainment setup.

The van offers ample storage space, including large dash-top cubbies, big cupholders, and overhead bins. A folding centre seat doubles as a desktop, and multiple power sources enable easy in-cab work. Standard features include air conditioning, Bluetooth, hands-free functionality, cruise control, and remote locking.

Available configurations

The MAN TGE Luton comes in various configurations to meet diverse business needs. Initially released as a front-wheel drive (FWD) model, MAN has since introduced rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) versions. The van is available in two wheelbases, three vehicle lengths (5,986 mm to 7,391 mm), and three vehicle heights (2,355 mm to 2,835 mm), offering a load volume of up to 18.4 m³. Additionally, MAN offers TGE Chassis Cab and Crew Cab body styles, catering to a wide range of commercial requirements.

Versatility in Action

The MAN Luton van demonstrates its versatility through its impressive cargo capacity and adaptability across various industries. With a payload capacity ranging from 0.8 to 1.21 tonnes for a 3.5-tonne model and an average load volume of 18.79 m3, this vehicle offers ample space for transporting goods. The generous cargo area allows for the transportation of furniture, appliances, and numerous boxes, making it an ideal choice for removal companies and haulage services.

Cargo space and loading capabilities

The MAN Luton van's spacious interior accommodates a wide range of items. Larger 7.5-tonne models can fit approximately 40-50 boxes, multiple sofas, beds, and dining room sets in a single trip. This capacity significantly reduces the need for multiple journeys, enhancing efficiency for businesses. The van's design also includes convenient storage solutions and a lower load height option for easier access, further improving its practicality.

Adaptability for various industries

The MAN Luton van serves a diverse range of industries, showcasing its adaptability. It is particularly suitable for:

1. Furniture removal and haulage companies
2. Clearance services
3. Garden centres
4. Goods transportation services
5. Catering companies

Its robust construction and generous payload make it an excellent choice for demanding jobs and challenging terrains. The van can be converted into a mobile workshop vehicle or optimised for construction sites and delivery traffic, demonstrating its versatility in action.

Customisation options

MAN offers extensive customisation options through its MAN Individual service, allowing businesses to tailor the vehicle to their specific needs. From exterior modifications to interior design changes, the possibilities are vast. Additional accessories available include lighting accessories, protection bars for both front and rear, wheels, tyres, side steps, and lift kits. These customisation options enable the MAN Luton van to serve as an optimal companion for work and leisure, adapting to various business requirements and personal preferences.

Performance and Efficiency

Engine options and power output

The MAN TGE Luton van offers a range of engine options based on a 2.0-litre TDI turbodiesel from Volkswagen. These include:

1. 102hp / 300Nm single-turbo
2. 122hp / 300Nm single-turbo (RWD models only)
3. 140hp / 340Nm single-turbo
4. 177hp / 410Nm twin-turbo

The 140hp engine serves as a sensible middle ground, likely to be the choice for most operators. For those seeking additional power, MAN has recently introduced an upgraded 202hp version, offering improved performance, particularly during motorway overtaking.

Fuel efficiency and emissions

Fuel economy is not the TGE's strongest suit, with most rivals in the large van class offering better on-paper efficiency than the 38.2mpg best that MAN provides. Real-world economy is likely to be around 30mpg across all versions. The van uses AdBlue to meet Euro 6 emissions regulations, with each tankful lasting approximately 5,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.

Driving experience and handling

The MAN TGE Luton van delivers an impressive driving experience, demonstrating remarkable stability and security even under challenging conditions. Its light yet accurate electric power steering makes it as easy to handle as a car in most situations. The manual gearchange is light and slick, while the eight-speed automatic transmission is responsive and flexible.

The cabin remains quiet and refined at speed, with engine noise only becoming noticeable at maximum revs. The van's lightweight construction and strong diesel engines contribute to its nimble feel, despite its size. When carrying heavy loads, the engine works harder but doesn't feel strained, thanks to the well-spaced gear ratios that make the most of the engine's torque.

Pricing and Ownership

The MAN Luton van offers various purchase options and finance deals to suit different business needs. Customers can choose from finance lease, hire purchase, or outright purchase arrangements. Finance lease deals provide low deposits and flexible repayment options, with the added benefit of being 100% tax deductible. Hire purchase offers are available with low deposits, making them an attractive option for many businesses.

For those preferring outright purchase, MAN provides special offers on new TGE Luton vans, with pricing available on application. The sales team can explain how each package works, helping customers find the perfect deal. Finance products include hire purchase, lease purchase, finance lease for business users, and contract hire for both personal and business use.

Running costs and maintenance

To analyse van costs, MAN offers a running costs calculator that considers factors such as depreciation, servicing, maintenance, tax, fuel, and insurance over a 1-5 year period. This tool helps businesses forecast expenses and make informed decisions. The calculator uses industry forecasts of future van values to estimate depreciation and provides maintenance cost projections for servicing, tyres, and mechanical repairs.

Warranty and after-sales support

All new MAN truck chassis cabs come with 24/7 roadside assistance and a three-year, unlimited mileage warranty as standard. For businesses requiring more comprehensive coverage, MAN offers full Repair & Maintenance and Service Select contract options to meet operator licence requirements. Genuine MAN parts meet "original equipment" standards and come with a two-year warranty. Additionally, MAN provides uptime guarantees, tailor-made repair and maintenance contracts, extended warranty periods, and financing solutions to ensure customers are always safely on the road.

Conclusion

The MAN Luton van has a significant impact on the commercial vehicle market, offering a blend of versatility and performance that meets the diverse needs of businesses. Its adaptable design and strong construction make it a popular choice for those looking for a reliable and efficient way to transport goods. From its spacious cargo area to its range of engine options, the MAN Luton van provides solutions to address various transportation challenges, making it a standout choice in its class.

For businesses considering the MAN Luton van, it's worth noting the variety of purchase options and after-sales support available. With flexible finance deals, comprehensive warranty coverage, and ongoing maintenance support, MAN ensures that customers can find a solution that fits their needs and budget. This level of support, combined with the van's performance and versatility, makes the MAN Luton van a compelling option to consider for businesses looking to enhance their transportation capabilities.

FAQs

What advantages do Luton vans offer?

Luton vans excel in providing greater height and volume capacity compared to long wheelbase (LWB) vehicles, making them ideal for moving tall or bulky items. Additionally, many Luton vans come equipped with a tail lift, enhancing safety and ease when loading heavy or cumbersome objects.

How does the MAN TGE fare in comparison to other large vans?

The MAN TGE is virtually a rebranded VW Crafter, produced in the same facility and featuring similar body styles and drivetrain options. This similarity is beneficial as the Crafter, like the TGE, is recognised for its exceptional quality and modern features in the large van category.

Can you explain what a Luton van is?

Luton vans, also known as box vans or Luton peak vans, are large commercial vehicles. Originating from Luton, Bedfordshire, where the first models were manufactured, these vans are favoured by removal and delivery companies, clearance services, and others for their substantial size and payload capacity.

What types of engines are available in the MAN TGE?

The MAN TGE offers several engine variants, including a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine available in both 103 kW for light duty and 130 kW for light duty configurations, and a 2.0-litre BiTurbo diesel engine available in 103 kW and 120 kW for heavy duty use. These specifications apply particularly to models with a twin-tyre configuration and a long wheelbase.