Yes, some MAN vans, particularly the MAN TGE, are indeed made in collaboration with Volkswagen, leveraging a strategic partnership within their shared automotive group.
The Partnership Between MAN and Volkswagen
While MAN (Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg) has a long-standing history as a prominent manufacturer of trucks and buses, its venture into the van market is a relatively recent development. Since 2017, MAN has expanded its product line to include a van, which is a direct result of its collaboration with Volkswagen, a key partner within the same automotive group.
This partnership allows MAN to benefit from Volkswagen's established expertise and platforms in the light commercial vehicle segment. Instead of developing a new van from scratch, MAN bases its offering on an existing, successful Volkswagen model.
The MAN TGE: A Volkswagen Crafter Underneath
The specific model that highlights this collaboration is the MAN TGE. This van is essentially based on the highly regarded Volkswagen Crafter. This means that while it carries the MAN badge and benefits from MAN's sales and service network, its underlying engineering, platform, and many components are shared with the Volkswagen Crafter.
Key aspects of this collaboration include:
- Shared Platform: The chassis, body structure, and many interior components of the MAN TGE are identical or very similar to those found in the Volkswagen Crafter.
- Engine & Drivetrain: Both vans typically share the same range of engines and transmission options, ensuring performance and reliability consistent with VW Group standards.
- Manufacturing: The production of the MAN TGE often takes place alongside the Volkswagen Crafter in shared facilities, streamlining manufacturing processes and quality control.
This strategic alignment allows MAN to offer a competitive van product quickly and efficiently, expanding its market presence beyond heavy-duty vehicles, while Volkswagen benefits from increased production volume and market reach. For customers, it means the MAN TGE offers the proven capabilities and features of the Volkswagen Crafter, combined with MAN's traditional focus on commercial vehicle robustness and specialized service.
