MAN eTGL

MAN eTGL: Urban Electric Workhorse

The MAN eTGL, built in Germany and hitting sales in 2025, marks MAN Truck & Bus’s entry into lightweight urban trucking with electric torque and zero-emission ambition. This ride blends nimble handling with family-style reliability thanks to MAN’s in-house EV know-how. Standard price clocks in around US $265,000 (£210,000/€245,000), situating it among premium green fleet entrants. With a 235 km (146 mi) urban range and a modest 90 km/h (56 mph) top speed, it’s tailor-made for city logistics, grocery runs, and food delivery routes. MAN’s pitch? Real-world specs backed by solid charging chops.

• Manufactured story: Unveiled at IAA Transportation 2024, the MAN eTGL project draws from Germany’s legacy EV know-how.
• Unveiling date: The 2024 debut cemented its place as a city-ready, zero-emission contender.
• Pricing: With a US $265,000 (£210,000/€245,000) sticker price, MAN eTGL aims squarely at fleet operators eyeing low TCO.
• Positioning: It's pitched as a leading 12‑tonne electric for urban logistics, vying directly with peers on specs and cost efficiency.

Specs Breakdown: Battery and Performance

Battery

The eTGL rocks 160 kWh of usable NMC juice, split between twin packs crafted in Nuremberg. Energy density is tuned for commercial duty. DC fast charging at 250 kW CCS drops battery from 10 % to 80 % in about 30 minutes—ideal for driver breaks or depot recharges. With efficiency around 97 kWh/100 km, it delivers real-world autonomy even under load.

• Battery capacity: 160 kWh usable (~577 MJ)
• Range: 235 km (146 mi)
• Charging: 250 kW CCS, 10→80 % in ~30 min
• Consumption: ~97 kWh per 100 km (1.7 kWh/km)

Performance

Powered by a rear-mounted 210 kW (285 hp) motor that dishes out 800 Nm continuously, this truck matches stop‑start city routes. A two‑speed gearbox smooths low-speed torque and highway readiness. Tipping the scales at ~12 tonnes, it maneuvers easily thanks to a 4.5 m (177 in) wheelbase and low-slung center of gravity. Top speed is limited to 90 km/h (56 mph), befitting its urban mission.

• Power: 210 kW (285 hp)
• Torque: 800 Nm (590 lb‑ft)
• Drive: RWD
• Top speed: 90 km/h (56 mph)
• Wheelbase: 4.5 m (177 in)

Current configuration offers standard day‑cab with 6,600 kg (14,550 lb) payload, priced around US $265,000 (£210,000/€245,000).

Exterior and Interior Features

Exterior

The eTGL flaunts a compact day-cab body ready for dry-freight or box configurations from 6.2 to 7.5 m. Its 953 mm low frame and 17.5‑inch wheels enhance loading ease and curb reach. The design leans functional—clean panels for aerodynamics, clear LED lighting, and a short stature that hugs city streets.

Interior

Inside, the cabin packs a 12.3‑inch digital cluster with “calmed display mode” for easy backing-up and route guidance, plus MAN EasyControl buttons outside the door to toggle PTO or lights. Materials include robust plastics and vinyl surfaces built for daily wear. Ergonomics favor quick driver entry and all‑day comfort.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Zero‑emission city range of 235 km (146 mi)
• Fast 250 kW CCS charging
• Best‑in‑class 6,600 kg (14,550 lb) payload
• Quiet operation and instant 800 Nm torque
• Driver‑friendly controls and safety tech

Cons

• Price around US $265 000 (£210 000/€245 000) is steep
• 90 km/h (56 mph) top speed limits highway work
• 235 km (146 mi) range may curtail heavier regional runs

Conclusion

If you're running urban routes, the MAN eTGL offers robust range, payload, and driver‑centric tech wrapped in a nimble 12‑tonne package. Its charging speed and torque feel thoughtful, not show‑off. It’s a compelling choice for fleets aiming to ditch diesel but stick with daily dependable performance.