MAN TGX on the World Rallycross scene

The reigning World Rallycross Champion and DTM driver, Mattias Ekström, has personally picked up a new, fully equipped MAN TGX 18.580 from the MAN Truck Forum in Munich, which will be used for the race logistics of his team, EKS.

The latest vehicle type in Ekström’s World Rallycross Championship Team is not quite as low-slung and close to the action as the reigning champion’s Audi S1 EKS RX Quattro. Nevertheless, it earned an enthusiastic thumbs-up from the champ.

The polar-white MAN TGX semi-trailer tractor, is fitted with a powerful 432 kW (580 hp) D38 Euro-6 engine, which has a displacement of 15,2 litres and torque of 2 900 Nm. The MAN TipMatic twelve-speed gearbox, tuned for the D38, takes this power directly onto the asphalt.

Another technical feature adding to the new TGX 18.580’s appeal as a team member is the innovative EfficientRoll function, which makes it possible to control rolling movement intelligently and proactively via GPS, minimising consumption even further. 

The EKS TGX gets moving economically with the EfficientCruise GPS-supported cruise control system, which registers the topographical driving route up to three kilometres in advance and adjusts accordingly.

In addition to performance and efficiency, the TGX offers the EKS team’s drivers a highly comfortable workplace with its XXL long-haul cab.

Its facilities include alcantara/leather combination upholstery, comfortable heated seats for driver and co-driver, plus the MAN professional media package with the MMT advanced system including navigation and a hands-free system for two mobile phones.

The chassis, with full air suspension, will ensure pleasant driving comfort on the long trips to the national and international RX racing circuits.

MAN Truck & Bus is one of their first sponsoring partners and has supported EKS’s race logistics since 2014. The new tractor unit, together with its predecessors, will be used to transport the Audi racing vehicles, technical equipment, material and the mobile workshop.

Handing over the MAN TGX 18.580, MAN Truck & Bus extended its motorsport partnership with EKS for another two years until the end of 2018.