Hammond Transport opts for MAN OptiView
Family-owned Billericay based haulier Hammond Transport has recently taken delivery of a new fleet flagship – a new MAN 26.510 TGX 6×2 tractor with range-topping GX cab – featuring the MAN OptiView mirror-replacement system.
The OptiView system, which is reportedly already proving a huge hit with the driver, replaces all conventional mirror arms and mirrors. It uses five exterior cameras, two on each side of the vehicle, which are mounted above the door frames close to the leading edge of the A-pillars, and a fifth camera which replaces the forward facing Cyclops mirror.
Offering close-range, wide-angle and blind spot displays these cameras increase the field of vision providing the driver with an optimum overview of the traffic situation surrounding the vehicle, especially when performing critical driving actions such as manoeuvring, turning and lane changes.
The cameras are splash- and waterproof, self-cleaning and heated automatically, thus ensuring pin-sharp images are transmitted to the vehicles internal displays even when driving in low light or at night.
Mounted internally, on the inside of the vehicle’s A-pillars, where a driver would expect to see traditional mirror images, are digital display screens, 12-inch on the driver’s side and 15-inch on the co-driver’s side. Each of these screens displays high-definition live feed data from around the vehicle at a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels.
To enhance the driver’s view the display brightness and contrast can be adjusted individually, either automatically or manually, via the door control module.
Additionally, the mirror-replacement system automatically filters out disruptions in the camera footage and optimises the image clarity, delivering a glare-free view of the traffic behind and to the sides, while at the same time reducing dazzle from other vehicles’ lights in the dark.
“We’ve been running MAN trucks since 1992 and because of the robustness of the product and the support we receive from the dealer network we’ve stuck with them ever since,” said Terry Hammond, managing director at Hammond Transport.
“MAN trucks are a popular choice with our drivers and with the introduction of the OptiView system the vehicles now look sleeker and offer a more comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings, which as we do a considerable amount of work in London, is ideal for us.”
He added: “The established relationship we have with both MAN and the dealer network is built on long-term trust, openness and understanding. MAN’s commitment to deliver customer satisfaction is a real promise and when needed, they simply listen, get the job done and deliver upon our expectations.
“We’re really excited to be one of the first adopters of OptiView in the UK and the support we’re had from MAN, in terms of system familiarisation and driver training, helps further cements our view of MAN’s genuine committed and caring support.”
Hammond Transport’s new TGX flagship is equipped as standard with a host of new and advanced safety assistance features, including Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) Turn Assist, Lane Change Support (LCS) Lane Return Assist (LRA) ACC Stop&Go, MAN AttentionGuard, High Beam Assist, Airbag and a driver’s seat belt tensioner system.
Terry continued: “Safety is an important aspect across the business and we prioritise the safety of our staff at all times. MAN has clearly taken a market-leading stance in this area, both in terms of standard and optional equipment, as our new flagship is laden with advanced features.
“In addition, and to help widen the field of vision we’ve added a lower door window to the kerbside of the vehicle.”
Powered by MAN’s Euro6e compliant 12.4-litre, six-cylinder in-line D26 engine, producing 375 kW (510 hp), Hammond Transport’s new flagship has been allocated to experienced and long-term driver Scott Bryden, and is already returning some highly encouraging fuel figures.
“Scott is getting just over 13.77 mpg from his new truck, which puts it 3.03 mpg ahead of our previous TGXs,” confirmed Terry.
“This bodes well for the future as the vehicle beds in and loosens up.”
He concluded: “We’re delighted with our new flagship TGX, it looks fantastic and Scott has really embraced the new OptiView system. If the fuel returns are anything to go by, he’s clearly using it to good effect.”
