HD Ricketts has added the first MAN truck to its 58-strong fleet of rigids and tractor units; a TGS 8x4 tipper. The decision was made after the Sutton Coldfield-based company heard positive things about the German manufacturer’s products.
Fitted with a Thompsons Steel Loadmaster Lite body coupled to Binotto front end tipping gear, the 32-tonne TGS 420 has been specified with a 2,440mm wide M cab and MAN’s 12-speed automatic TipMatic transmission.
HD Ricketts also specified the ‘Offroad’ function and lighter hypoid rear axles to maximise payload, as well as MAN’s electronic steering brake (ESB) for added manoeuvrability. ESB brakes the inside rear wheels which MAN claims, allows for a reduced turning circle of up to 1.4m.
Inside the cockpit MAN’s Advanced Media radio provides the driver with a 7in display and integrated GPS system, while driver aids include Anti-Braking System, Electronic Stability Program, and Lane Guard System.
HD Ricketts director Tony Ricketts, explained why it went for MAN over marques already on the fleet, like DAF and Volvo: “We’ve heard a lot of good things said about the latest MAN 8x4 product so to ensure that we take advantage of the efficiencies new vehicles offer, we’ve added a TGS to our fleet.”
Operating a one-man one-vehicle policy driver Rob Atkins, who has been with the company for five years, was assigned to the TGS. Atkins stated that since operating it, he’s been “really impressed. It’s easily the most comfortable vehicle I’ve driven for a long time, all the controls are easy to reach and it’s a nice, clean and bright working environment”.
The MAN has achieved FORS Silver safety standards thanks to an array of front facing, nearside, offside, rear and body cameras mounted to it, alongside a body raised warning light and alarm.
Purchased through MAN’s Aquila Truck Centre in Tamworth, the TGS is on a four year contract hire agreement with a four-year or 400,000km warranty. The package also includes a Gold R&M package.
Ricketts concluded: “The local MAN dealership, Aquila Truck Centre Tamworth, has already demonstrated a clear awareness of our fleets demanding needs and during the six-weekly inspections they too have delivered on our expectations.”
