MAN-sized changes at Frankfurt Show
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DETAILED changes have been Made to both the MAN heavy vehicle range and the joint MAN-VW G-Series. They are to be shown for the first time at the Frankfurt Show which opens next week, reports STEVE GRAY.
The joint MAN-VW range, which takes in gross weights up to nine tons, now has a revised interior and dashboard. Seat material and colours have been altered and there is the option of head restraints.
Mechanically, vehicles of the 'heavier class of the G-range are now available with a diff lock and, also for the first time too, says MAN, a tractive unit based on the 8.136 will be added to the range. However, no date for its introduction to the UK has been announced, though MAN-VW UK says it will be imported "soon".
The MAN 10.136F 4x2 ten-tonner (built as a look-alike to the joint range but labelled only MAN) is now available in series production, but as far as the larger MAN vehicles are concerned, the differences for this year's models are small.
Both forward control and bonneted models feature a new radiator grille with larger lettering. The front-opening panel on forward control models has been designed to open 20° further, which results in an increased height of 290mm (10in) to prevent possible injury.
Side-mounted flashers and larger indicators — to conform to EEC regulations — have been fitted and carpet is used as standard in the cab. On forwardcontrol vehicles, the instrument layout is altered, with rev counter and tachograph in the centre. The latter is now available with a fuel-measuring tracer, coupled to a flowmeter, while the rev counter has the optimum engine speed range for low fuel consumption more clearly marked.
Two new axle ratios — 4.04 and 4.21 to 1 — have been introduced for single drive axle vehicles to allow the use of a speed limiter.
In common with other makes, MAN has paid close attention to electrics. It has a central electrical system, with all relays accessible from the front for easy changing. Optional extras now available include a headlamp range adjustment system (to become an EEC mandatory requirement) and a headlamp wash/wipe system.
The joint ABS anti-lock brake system will be available on bus chassis, two-axled rigids and tractive units.
MAN has also introduced a number of new vehicle types including a 22.192 FVL which has a Chinese six arrangement for public utility.
The 30.281 VF is an 8x4 designed for possible increases in gross weights. A more powerful engine is fitted to a similar chassis — the 37.321 VFA — but this has all-wheel drive.
Heavy haulage requirements are taken care of by the 40.440 DFAS which has its output up to 324kW (440bhp) from 294kW (400bhp).