IAA 2016: The list of changes of 2017 MAN trucks is huge
MAN Truck & Bus presents numerous design innovations for its TG series at IAA 2016. TGX and TGS receive visually reworked and dynamic cooling air ducts. The interior of all TG models is characterised by a warm colour scheme, with new fabrics and seat covers creating a bright and high-quality image that is perfectly rounded off by the concise design of the steering wheel.
One of the main aims of the MAN designers working on the new external appearance of the TG series was to put greater emphasis on the emotional figurehead of the brand identity, the MAN lion. The chrome lion positioned on the chrome trim above the radiator grille is significantly more prominent against the new high gloss black background. Inside the cab, the lion also has a more distinctive presence than before. The Lion motif now adorns the impact absorber on the steering wheel and also appears as a high-quality woven brand emblem on the base covering of the upper bed in all sleeper cab variants.
Aerodynamically optimized radiator fins give the front a compact and unified appearance. The new fin elements with their upward angled blade profile improve the air flow to the radiator located behind and increase the cooling efficiency. The TGX series tractor vehicles also benefit from the external update of the model. The cross member closing off towards the top lends the bumper and solid and stable look. It thus appears even more distinct and powerful.
MAN has given the new TGX, TGS, TGM and TGL cabs a distinctive new character using newly developed surface colours and new fabrics for all textile surfaces. The new colour scheme is based on two key colours which are repeated in the seat and bed covers, the curtains, the roof liner, the carpets and the plastic surfaces. The one is “sand”, a modern shade of beige, and the other “graphite”, a warm shade of anthracite. The floor covering of the cab now also features a warmer grey tone. The “sand” colour theme is reflected in the door flanks, speaker covers and the instrument panel.
As a result of the reworking of the exterior and interior design, all TG series models are equipped with new standard steering wheels. As part of the reworking of the interior ambience, the seats are also fitted with new covers. The standard seats have a new seam pattern which creates a three-dimensional effect of woven fabric through its combination with the lattice design of the material.
The 640 HP performance class in the new MAN D38 engine was previously reserved exclusively for heavy-duty designs, but with the new generation of engines, it is now available in almost all versions of the MAN TGX D38. MAN is also offering the new D38 with additional performance levels of 540 and 580 HP – an increase of respectively 20 HP compared to before. For the new D38 engine, MAN uses a third generation common rail system which injects fuel into the cylinders at up to 2500 bar.
A key element of low-speed engine characteristics is the charging system which comprises two differently sized turbochargers connected in sequence. The smaller high-pressure charger responds even at low engine speeds, with the larger low-pressure charger providing additional support with increasing speeds and loads. This concept leads to an ideal supply of combustion air to the engine and thus an optimal torque curve which means that the maximum torque is available within a wide range of between 900 and 1400 rpm.
In comparison to its predecessor, the new MAN D26 engine boasts even more torque and performance. It now comes complete with an extra 20 HP in each class as well as a greater torque of 200 Nm, which means that the D26 engine is available in new performance classes of 420, 460 or 500 HP. Like the new MAN D38 engine, the new D26 offers a whole host of different technologies for reducing consumption. It is also fitted with new, low-friction steel pistons and fire rings, optimised oil cooling with thermostat, and sensor-controlled fan speed.
The new D20 also benefits from most of the innovative equipment found in the new D26 engine, including optimised oil cooling with thermostat, sensor-controlled fan speed, a regulated coolant pump, and improved exhaust gas recirculation. With the new D08, MAN is building on a proven concept, which includes an overhaul of the engine software. A new coolant level sensor prevents the engine from running with too little coolant, allowing any engine damage to be prevented in good time. Further innovations include the sensor-controlled fan speed and a new oil level sensor. Performance classes 250, 290 and 340 HP for the 6-cylinder model as well as classes 150, 180 and 220 HP for the 4-cylinder model remain unchanged.
MAN has optimised the automated TipMatic gearbox in their vehicles with individual moving-off and switching strategies for each specific area of application and added various new functions to enhance efficiency and comfort. The new functions of the gearbox operate uniformly and are available for all 12-speed gearbox versions in the new TG generation. They have been specifically adjusted for the combination with the new D20, D26 and D38 engines in the Euro 6 design and for the respective area of application.
