TACHO TIME
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• A TG-A driver can hardly fail to notice the new "intermediate stage" (we prefer "Euro-fudge") electronic tachograph which sits in a DIN radio "hole" in the TO-A's headlining above the driver's head. A separate electronic speedo takes its place next to the rev counter.
To insert a chart you first have to turn on the ignition before pressing a button on the unit, which prompts the sliding chart tray to pop out. Unfortunately this tray is very flimsy and we can't see it lasting too long; any driver who leaves it out is bound to catch it sooner or later. You've also got to remember to insert the chart under a small clear plastic retaining clip or risk it being chewed up when you push the tray back in.
We can hardly blame MAN, or any other truck manufacturer, for being required to fa the latest tacho design but we think Brussels has got it wrong. This half-way house is no more than a pointless compromise and the sooner we move to smart-card tachos the better.