CLA for construction

MAN Automotive has refreshed its CLA model range, and is specifically targeting the construction industry. GAVIN MYERS joined the team as it introduced the new range to customers.

The venue was the formidable ride and handling track at the Gerotek vehicle testing facility outside Pretoria. Lined up were some CLA 15.220 4×2 6 m³ tippers and CLA 26.280 6×4 10 m³ tippers – full to the brim with sand – and a CLA 26.280 6×4 with a drop-side body and Palfinger crane.

They were joined by a TGS 41.440 8×4, but the new CLAs were the stars of the show – and there were many more models on static display. Eren Gunduz, head of truck sales division at MAN Automotive, walks us through the new models.

“The CLA range is evolving. The new models have a redesigned three-piece front bumper; reinforced, shrouded steps to the cab; bigger air intakes; and more powerful H7 headlamps,” Gunduz explains.

Excitingly, there is also an 8×4 twin-steer unit under development. “That will launch in six to seven months and should grow our numbers from 300 to 500 units a year,” he says.

With guests clamouring to get behind the wheel of the new models throughout the day, there was no shortage of opinion on what the new CLA brings to the party.

Saudiq Marthinus, from Cape Town-based Wastemart, explains that his business has just procured five TGS horses and three rigids for transport of waste water. “The CLA is a smooth truck to drive. While tippers are not our core business, it can be used as a skip loader, which suits us,” he says.

Ali Peer, from Al’s Hardware in Johannesburg, has run 30 TGS 26.280 tippers for the last five years. “The CLA feels powerful on the hills of the test track with a load. It’s easy to drive,” he says.

This is not unexpected, as Gunduz explains that the driveline remains the D08 engine and 7,5-t front axle with 11,5 t (on 4×2) or 13 t (on 6×4) rear axle.

“The driveline brings MAN pedigree to operators, and these trucks are designed for a high overload capacity typical of the Indian operating environment, which, together, makes them perfect for any construction industry. The 4x2s have an eight-tonne nett payload, the 6x4s 12
to 14 t.”

With 50 MAN TGS and TGA models in its fleet, the team from Bakers Tankers enjoyed the opportunity to put the new CLA to the test. “We’re looking at buying the 10 m³ CLA tipper for use on the mines,” comments Suhail Tayoob. “We took the 15.220 for a drive and couldn’t feel the load. It’s user-friendly and comfort is good on road,” he adds.

“The CLA brings the MAN premium backing to the lower end of the construction market and offers operators a three-year/300 000 km warranty,” Gunduz concludes.