MAN TGE Dropside

If you are up to date with the current van market, then you may have noticed that many companies have been introducing electric versions of their standard combustion van models – MAN included. With the popularity of electric vehicles on the rise given the current social climate focusing on the importance of sustainability in relation to the world’s actual climate, many manufacturers are now creating an electric fleet of their van models.

The MAN TGE is one such van, including the converted dropside model. Being one of the best dropside vans available with its high torque and excellent traction with the option for 4-wheel drive, helping people working in trade navigate all kinds of terrain, how does the MAN eTGE Dropside compare?

Of course, there are some obvious advantages that set apart the eTGE Dropside from the standard TGE Dropside, such as how quiet it is to drive and how it is less impactful on the environment, not to mention the intuitive energy recuperation it is capable of. But when it comes to the specifics of how they compare in terms of practicality as dropside vans, the lines are harder to distinguish.

If you require a dropside van for your job, then we are firm believers that MAN vans are an excellent choice to suit your needs. But if you can’t decide between the powerful diesel engine of the TGE Dropside or the environmentally conscious electric motor of the eTGE Dropside, then don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn the informative advantages and limitations of each to aid in your decision.

Engines and Spec

There’s no denying that when it comes to power, the MAN TGE does not disappoint. As discussed in our TGE Dropside review, it features a 2.0-litre TDI turbo diesel engine, with an impressive capability of 300 Nm of torque in the smallest engine model, whilst the largest is capable of 410 Nm of torque.

In comparison, the eTGE is only capable of 290 Nm of torque, with no option of increasing this since it is available only with the standard 100 kW motor. Though this is less than the torque of the smallest engine in the diesel counterpart, it is only just so, and for those who are used to driving in heavily congested urban traffic, this should not be too impactful on your habitual driving routes. Although, if you do regularly travel long distances, then the TGE Dropside will be much more efficient, especially when driving at high speeds, all whilst capable of handling heavier loads.

The TGE also places above the eTGE when it comes to driving range, unsurprisingly. Managing 38.2mpg (which works out as covering 630 miles on a full tank) it can cover significantly more distance than its electric sibling, which can only reach a maximum of 71 miles on a full charge – not taking into account speed and load size. This is something certainly worth taking into consideration if motorway driving is common for you and necessary for your job.

However, don’t rule out the electric version if you instead drive in urban areas with lots of stop-start traffic. As we noted in our MAN eTGE Dropside review, this van has the capability to recuperate energy by feeding it back into the battery each time you break, thus increasing your range and making for an efficient drive, which is what makes it so high performing in slow or congested traffic.

Interior

You may be wondering, what is the payload of the MAN TGE Dropside and the eTGE Dropside? Well, as is the case with most electric conversions, the eTGE Dropside payload is lower than that of the TGE Dropside, holding a maximum of 820kg, whilst the equivalent 3.5 tonne diesel with four-wheel drive sits at 1,404kg (and this is even higher for front or rear-wheel drive configurations). If you work in the construction industry and often transport heavy loads across sites that require forklifts for loading and unloading, then one of the diesel models may be best for you. If, however, you independently work in local construction or landscaping, then the eTGE Dropside will be perfectly capable for your needs.

The cabin area is one of the best in both the TGE and the eTGE alike. Being comfortable and stylish, both feature a digital infotainment system in the centre console that has an inbuilt navigation system available as standard with the eTGE and as part of a package with the TGE.

Storage space is one of the most impressive features of all TGE vans, whether diesel or electric, including in the dropside models. This not only includes storage bins and generous cupholders, but lockable storage cubbies to keep your tools or valuables secure at all times.

The cockpit boasts an ergonomic display, with the instrument cluster in the eTGE being redesigned to display all the necessary information about your vehicle, including the level of charge and subsequently how much range you have left, as well as displaying when energy recuperation takes place. Other than this necessary difference, there is not much dissimilarity between the interior cabin of the MAN TGE and eTGE Dropside vans.

The Verdict/Snap shot

All in all, the MAN TGE and eTGE Dropside vans are very much similar in terms of their interior, as well as their size – both with the same loading space dimensions in the dropside body. As for style, both are modern on the inside and out, with no visual discrepancies.

The main differences between the two comes with the driving performance. If you need a van to regularly travel long distances with the power to transport larger loads of construction materials without significantly impacting performance, then the TGE Dropside is likely more suited to your needs. If you make smaller journeys, carry lighter loads of loose construction materials and/or are regularly using your van on site or in urban, rush hour traffic, then the eTGE Dropside will be more efficient for you.

Despite the charging restraints that come with the eTGE, it does have the benefit of being more comfortable to drive; what it lacks in the power and driving range of the diesel equivalent, it makes up for in smooth handling, quiet driving and of course the quality of having zero tail emissions – keeping you exempt from paying any charges in low-emission zones!

If you would like to discuss further which van would be better suited to your needs, enquire today with Van Sales UK. Our experts will be able to guide you through what each van offers and quote the financing options we have available to you.