MAN en route for logistics firm

Leading truck manufacturer MAN Truck & Bus UK is supplying Northamptonshire-based Route Logistics with six new MAN TGX 26.500 Euro6cs.

The family-run firm placed an order for the tractor units after experiencing a demo vehicle at its Rockingham base.

Amanda Wells, Route Logistics' financial director, said: "Route Logistics Ltd is a family owned business established in 2005 by my father and managing director, Paul Clifton.

"Operating with a fleet of 25 units and 15 trailers based at Rockingham Motor Speedway in Corby, Route Logistics has grown significantly over the past twelve to eighteen months and looks positively to the future with the support of the team we have working here.

"Due to diversifying into different market sectors, the growth within the general haulage and tramping activities of our business leant towards the option for a greater specification vehicle and the MAN TGX 26.500XXL seemed the ideal fit. We initially agreed on taking three units, but positive results from the demonstrator soon led to us increasing the order to six.

Chris Robinson, Route Logistics' transport operations director, added: "The MPG returns on a vehicle of its size were very impressive, one driver managed a return of 11.77 mpg during their shift. The drivers were very impressed with the comfort of the ride, spacious interior and the general performance.

"The inclusion of the Microlise telematics system and forward facing/ nearside look down cameras help support our driver training and implementation of SAFED policies. We are particularly impressed by MAN's back office support geared to helping us run an efficient and compliant fleet.

"We look forward to forging a long and successful partnership between both companies."

MAN sales executive, Scott Munton, said: "Route Logistics is a new customer for MAN, but they have already been impressed with the quality of our product and the service they receive.

"We were able to put together a package that smashed comparison to any competitors in terms of rental and running costs and they were happy to take a two year contract on the vehicles even before they had operated the demo.

"We are delighted to have won Route Logistics business and look forward to providing them with unbeatable service in to the future."

Vehicle details

Model TGX 26.500 6x2/2 BLS

Cab XXL Slp cab

Engine D2676LF 6 cylinder

12.4 litre

Power 500hp at 1800 rpm

Torque 2500Nm at 930 - 1350 rpm

Gearbox Tipmatic 12 speed

Suspension Steel/Air

Wheelbase 2600mm

Plated weight 44000kg GTW