The first accessible MAN TGE converted by Minibus Options was displayed at the CV Show, and a further 10 are already in build.
A demonstration programme will commence shortly for the seed minibus, which is a 5,000kg GVW model and comes with a wheelchair lift and a side entrance.
Of the examples now being built, nine are for stock and are similar to the prototype. They will have up to 17 seats, depending on the customer’s requirement. The tenth TGE with Minibus Options is a 4,000kg GVW, front-wheel drive example that is for a customer.
“All TGEs will be buyer-specific; Stock models will be finished without a lift, but we can add one quickly prior to delivery. Seats are on T-bolts in tracking so they can be removed easily,” says Sales Director Fred James.
MAN is currently working on a solution to allow a front-entrance variant of the TGE that will grow its appeal for minicoach use. It reports strong customer interest; a chassis cowl will also be available for coachbuilt bodies.
Buyers in all sectors will be able to take advantage of 24-hour servicing offered by MAN dealerships.
“The accessible minibus circle doesn’t know the MAN brand, but we are expecting strong interest when it is able to see what the TGE can do,” adds Mr James.
