Man TGE

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Explore the MAN TGE: The Ultimate Panel Van

Article ImageThe MAN TGE has made a significant impact on the commercial vehicle market, offering a versatile and robust solution for businesses of all sizes. This panel van stands out with its impressive range of wheelbases, vehicle heights, and configurations, making it adaptable to various industry needs. From compact city deliveries to long-haul transport, the MAN TGE proves to be a reliable companion for professionals seeking efficiency and performance in their daily operations.

In this article, we'll explore the key features that make the MAN TGE a top choice for businesses. We'll look at its powerful engine options, including the all-wheel drive and 4x4 variants, and examine its cutting-edge technology and safety features. Additionally, we'll dive into the van's cargo capacity, interior design, and available accessories. Finally, we'll discuss the various purchase options, such as hire purchase, lease purchase, and outright purchase, to help you make an informed decision about acquiring this exceptional commercial vehicle.

MAN TGE: A Versatile Powerhouse

The MAN TGE stands as a true powerhouse in the commercial vehicle market, offering a wide range of configurations to suit various business needs. This versatile panel van has made a significant impact, providing robust solutions for businesses of all sizes.

Overview of the MAN TGE

The MAN TGE, essentially a rebadged Volkswagen Crafter, is the first light commercial vehicle from MAN Truck & Bus, part of the Volkswagen Group. Built in the same factory in Poland as the Crafter, the TGE distinguishes itself primarily through its front-end design and badging. True to MAN's motto "Simplifying Business," the TGE aims to make daily transport operations as simple, efficient, and successful as possible.

Available configurations

The MAN TGE offers an impressive array of configurations to cater to diverse industry requirements. As a panel van, it provides:

Two wheelbase options

Three vehicle lengths ranging from 5,986 mm to 7,391 mm

Three vehicle heights between 2,355 mm and 2,835 mm

Load volumes up to 18.4 m³

Permitted total weight up to 5.5 tonnes

Additionally, the TGE is available in various body types, including pick-up, tipper, Luton, combi, and minibus versions. This versatility allows the TGE to adapt to a wide range of applications, from compact city deliveries to long-haul transport.

Engine options and performance

The MAN TGE comes equipped with a 2.0-litre diesel engine available in four power outputs. The naming structure for different models relates to their gross weight and engine power output. For instance, a three-tonne van with the smallest engine is called the 2.100, while a 3.5-tonne model with the mid-range diesel is the 3.140.

The diesel engine range is responsive, with the 138bhp version striking a good balance between performance and economy. The six-speed manual gearbox, although slightly notchy, offers precise shifting and well-spaced ratios to make the most of the engine's torque. An eight-speed twin-clutch automatic gearbox is also available on selected models.

The MAN TGE offers three drive options:

Front-wheel drive (FWD)

Rear-wheel drive (RWD)

All-wheel drive (AWD)

This variety in drive systems ensures that the TGE can handle various road conditions and load requirements, making it a truly versatile powerhouse in the commercial vehicle sector.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Safety Features

The MAN TGE has an influence on the commercial vehicle market with its advanced technology and safety features, offering a comprehensive package that enhances both driver comfort and vehicle performance.

Advanced infotainment system

The MAN TGE boasts a state-of-the-art infotainment system designed to simplify daily work routines. The MAN Media Van system combines vehicle function control, radio, and telephony in a single unit. It features a 10.4-inch touch display equipped with a DAB tuner, Bluetooth, and MAN SmartLink for convenient smartphone pairing. For those seeking enhanced functionality, the MAN Media Van Navigation with a 10.4-inch touch display and the MAN Media Van Navigation Business with a 12.9-inch display are available. These advanced systems offer additional features such as web radio, media streaming, intelligent voice control, and precise navigation.

The system's connectivity options are extensive, allowing drivers to integrate their favourite apps, music, and messages into the vehicle effortlessly. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility enables selected apps to be displayed on the infotainment screen and operated via WLAN (WiFi). An inductive charging cradle is also available for wireless device charging.

Driver assistance technologies

The MAN TGE has an impact on driver comfort and efficiency with its range of assistance technologies. The fully digital display provides essential driving information at a glance, from speedometer to tank level. Drivers can customise the display to suit their preferences, ensuring they have all the necessary information without distraction.

The electronic parking brake, activated by a button in the cockpit, includes an "Auto Hold" function that keeps the vehicle stationary without the need to press the brake pedal. This feature proves particularly useful in stop-and-go traffic or when waiting at red lights.

The Keyless Go system allows for keyless locking, unlocking, and ignition activation, saving time and enhancing convenience. Additionally, the ergonomic multifunction steering wheel controls the instrument display and assistance systems, further streamlining the driving experience.

Safety innovations

Safety has been given paramount importance in the MAN TGE. All models up to 3.5 tonnes are now equipped with a co-driver airbag as standard, which can be easily deactivated to accommodate commercial requirements. For vehicles exceeding 3.5 tonnes, the co-driver airbag remains an optional feature.

The MAN TGE also incorporates intelligent accident recording as standard in models up to 3.5 tonnes. This system records and stores critical, accident-related parameters and information in the phases shortly before, during, and immediately after a collision.

Impressive Cargo Capacity and Practicality

The MAN TGE stands out as a versatile powerhouse in the commercial vehicle market, offering impressive cargo capacity and practicality. With its range of configurations and clever storage solutions, it caters to various industry needs, from construction sites to courier services.

Load space dimensions

The MAN TGE boasts impressive dimensions, making it a top choice for businesses requiring ample cargo space. It offers two wheelbase options and three vehicle lengths ranging from 5,986 mm to 7,391 mm. The van also comes in three vehicle heights, spanning from 2,355 mm to a maximum of 2,835 mm. This versatility allows for a load volume of up to 18.4 m³, placing it among the largest in the van market.

The van's side door opening measures an impressive 1,311 mm wide, while the rear doors can be opened to 180 or 270 degrees, facilitating easy loading and unloading. Even the smallest model can accommodate five Euro pallets, with larger versions capable of holding six in various configurations.

Payload capabilities

The MAN TGE has a significant impact on payload capabilities, with a permitted total weight of up to 5.5 tonnes. Front-wheel drive versions offer the highest payload ratings, spec-for-spec, making them ideal for businesses prioritising cargo weight. The absolute maximum payload reaches an impressive 2,515 kg, available in the 5.0t GVW rear-wheel drive TGE with the Standard body and 122hp engine. Notably, every 5.0t variant can carry over 2.2 tonnes.

For businesses requiring additional transport capacity, the optional trailer coupling allows for an extra 3.5 tonnes of trailer loads, further enhancing the van's versatility.

Clever storage solutions

The MAN TGE offers a range of clever storage solutions to maximise efficiency and organisation within the cargo space. The van provides an optional 'universal' load floor, pre-engineered to accept popular types of racking. Customers can choose between wood or composite wall lining panels, and numerous screw holes are available for shelving installation.

To enhance load security, optional lashing rails can be fitted to the floor, sides, ceiling, and bulkhead, complementing the standard lashing points. Interior roof racks are also available as an option, maximising vertical space utilisation. Standard LED load area lighting ensures excellent visibility within the cargo area, enhancing safety and efficiency during loading and unloading operations.

Conclusion

The MAN TGE has proven itself as a game-changer in the commercial vehicle market. Its wide range of configurations, powerful engine options, and cutting-edge technology make it a top choice for businesses looking to boost their operations. The van's impressive cargo capacity, coupled with its smart storage solutions, allows it to handle various industry needs with ease.

To wrap up, the MAN TGE stands out as a reliable and versatile workhorse that can tackle any job thrown its way. Whether you're after a compact city delivery van or a long-haul transport solution, the TGE has got you covered. With its focus on driver comfort, safety, and efficiency, it's clear that the MAN TGE is set to keep making waves in the commercial vehicle scene for years to come.

FAQs

1. How does the MAN TGE rate as a panel van?

The MAN TGE is essentially a VW Crafter under a different name. Both vans are produced in the same facility, offering similar body styles and drivetrain options. The primary differences are the branding and minor interior trim variations. This similarity to the highly regarded Crafter means the TGE is an outstanding, contemporary large van.

2. Who is the owner of the MAN TGE brand?

MAN Truck & Bus, which manufactures MAN vans, is a subsidiary within the Volkswagen Group. This group also includes well-known automotive brands such as Audi, Bentley, Cupra, Ducati, Lamborghini, Porsche, Seat, Skoda, VW, and VW Commercial Vehicles.

3. What distinguishes the MAN TGE from the VW Crafter?

While both the MAN TGE and VW Crafter are manufactured in the same factory and share many features, there are subtle differences. The MAN TGE and VW Crafter mainly differ in their front-end design and brand badges. It is often easier to find higher specifications in the MAN TGE compared to the Crafter, with servicing being one of the notable differences.

4. What led to the decline in popularity of panel vans?

Panel vans saw a decrease in popularity during the 1980s, with production of models like Holden's last panel van, the WB, ending in 1984. This marked a significant decline in the market presence of this type of vehicle.