MAN TIPPERS TAKING THE ROUGH WITH THE SMOOTH

When it comes to tippers, it’s hard to beat the appeal of MAN’s next generation 8x4 TGS, regarded as the chassis configuration of choice for the construction, aggregate and bulk goods sectors.

Available with a choice of two latest generation, Euro-6D compliant engines, the D15 at 330, 360 and 400 hp and the larger volume D26, delivering 430, 470 and 510 hp respectively, the TGS comes with a host of standard and optional features.

The D15, launched in 2019, is a small cubic capacity 9-litre 6-cylinder lump which packs a punch and offers operators a robust, efficient, economical and lightweight. Compared to its predecessor (the D20) the new D15 is 230 kilograms lighter, so an ideal choice for those wanting to maximise their payload opportunities. Achieving the latest Euro-6D emissions the D15 engine, delivering between 1,600 and 1,800Nm respectively, relies solely on an SCR exhaust gas aftertreatment. This technology helps simplify servicing, saves weight and at the same time frees up valuable chassis space. For those wanting a more powerful, yet still lightweight option, the new TGS with the D26 caters for your every need. Making numerous minor improvements MAN had managed to shed around 70 kilograms of weight and significantly reduce fuel consumption to the tune of 8 percent. The 12.4 litre, six-cylinder model is available in 430 hp, 470 hp and 510 hp outputs and the progressive torque curves show 2,200, 2,400 and 2,600 Nm is available from as low as 930 rpm.

The MAN TipMatic automated gearbox offers effortless stepped gearchanges, both on and off-road; it even automatically detects loads and angles of inclination and optimises the shift pattern to ensure that the best and most appropriate gear is always selected. The sophisticated gearbox software allows for ‘smart- shifting’ which minimises traction interruptions when changing gear while travelling uphill, for instance, and ‘idle speed driving’ enables comfortable moving off and driving at idling speed; this feature allows you to manoeuvre the truck with precision and sensitivity – and also enables you to easily cope with slowmoving traffic - and should the truck get stuck in wet or loose ground, there’s a rocking-free function that makes it easier to drive off, especially due to the ability of the clutch to rapidly open and closing. It also has a fuel saving idle shut down feature which automatically switches off the engine after four minutes of idling, following a warning. In addition, MAN TipMatic also contains pre-programmed driving settings for various driving situations, such as the fuel-saving Efficiency mode,

Manoeuvre mode and Performance mode for a more agile driving style.

Smart Braking

Meanwhile, the MAN BrakeMatic smart brake with electric braking and ABS make it possible, for example, to maintain a constant speed when going downhill by regulating the sustained-action brakes automatically. In situations where you have to react fast, this braking system is exactly what you want; based on the strength of pedal movement, the braking assistant recognises when hazard braking is needed and immediately activates full braking power. Clearly designed with the driver in mind, the entry of the MAN TGS is comfortably positioned in the centre of the doorway. The steps are equipped with non-slip grating and are fit for any off-road application. The bottom step is equipped with an elastic mount that allows for oscillating movements and thus prevents damage. For that extra bit of freedom of movement, the steering wheel position can be individually adjusted and pushed forward completely into a horizontal position when at standstill, while the backfriendly seat allows the driver to forget he’s travelling along even the roughest terrain.

Controls for the MAN TipMatic automatic gear shift system have been placed in the righthand steering column stalk. That not only frees up space between the seats, as the usual console between the seats is no longer needed, but also improves ergonomics and safety. Close at hand as well – to the right of the combi-dashboard – is the control for the electric handbrake. This means it is optimally positioned with respect to gear controls and the ignition. It can be operated at any time but is now also automatically activated when the vehicle is parked and released when it

Tippers

moves off. This creates additional room where a lever was previously needed. Other safety features include a mirror system made up of main and wideangle, large kerb and front mirrors. The blind spot has practically been eliminated, which makes for safer operation on busy construction sites. Other available safety systems at your disposal include lane change support which with the help of radar sensors, monitors the areas to the left and right of the vehicle’s lane when it is travelling at speeds over 50 km/h. If the sensors identify a hazard when changing lanes you will receive an early warning, enabling you to prevent a possible collision with other road users. You will find storage space in abundance, too, for all your bits and pieces, including storage boxes, units behind the driver's and co-driver's sides, a tray table and two pull-out cup holders in the instrument panel, as well as MAN’s innovative SmartSelect system, which makes using the truck’s multimedia system child’s play even in demanding driving situations on construction sites. Functions such as maps, music, cameras and more can be selected via a user friendly dial with hand rest.