Leicester strengthens heavy haulage fleet with MAN trucks 07 December 2011

The UK's first right-hand-drive version of MAN's V8-engined TGX 41.680 8x4 tractor unit has gone into service with Leicester Heavy Haulage.

MAN's top-powered 680bhp truck is plated at 250 tonnes gcw for the Coalville-based haulier, and comes with factory-fitted torque converter and hydraulic power-pack for modular trailer functions. The delivery coincides with the company's 40th anniversary celebrations.

MAN was selected after it emerged that the Munich marque was the only manufacturer able to meet Leicester Heavy Haulage's exacting specification – which, crucially, includes compatibility with the company's highly specialised trailers.

"The new MAN is the ideal truck for a variety of jobs," says company director Gary Rodwell. "We can use it as an artic or a ballasted tractor unit. We are delighted with it, and our drivers in particular have described it as awesome."

He adds that while some vehicles in the company's existing fleet have struggled on power, this isn't a problem for the new addition. "With 680 horses on tap, a torque converter and the MAN TipMatic auto-box, the MAN TGX is making light-work of the heavy jobs," says Rodwell.

The TGX 41.680 8x4 hit the road on 1 September, following an intensive MAN-managed driver instruction day for three Leicester Heavy Haulage Drivers and the company's workshop manager. "It was a constructive day," recalls Rodwell. "Feedback from all concerned has been very positive."

Author
John Challen

Related Companies
MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd

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