MAN Truck & Bus has revealed details of its first ever light commercial vehicle, the TGE, which will be available late next-year.

The new vehicle is based on the Volkswagen Crafter and can be built as a traditional panel van or a utility wagon with windows. Alternatively, buyers can opt for a single or crew-cab chassis.

Two wheelbases, three roof heights and three vehicle lengths are also available to choose from. The vehicle lengths for the closed delivery vans range from 5,983mm to 7,388mm with heights ranging 2,340mm to 2,800mm, resulting in a maximum load volume of 18.3 cubic meters.

The entry-level MAN TGE starts at 3.0-tonnes permitted total weight rising to 5.0-tonnes at the top of the range. A trailer coupling allows for an additional 3.5-tonnes of cargo.

It’s powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, which debuted last year in the Volkswagen Transporter and comprises power outputs of 102bhp, 122bhp, 140bhp or 177bhp.

Depending on the permitted total weight, there is a choice between front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, all of which can be coupled with either a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic.

Emergency brake assist (EBA) is fitted as standard and incorporates distance-regulating cruise control. There is also a crosswind assist function, fatigue detection and multi-collision brake assist.

Optional safety equipment includes backing up assist, which helps in situations such as leaving a parking spot and a trailer manoeuvring assist function.

MAN offers its customers a number of benefits as a traditional truck manufacturer such as extended workshop hours, flexible maintenance contracts and a 24-hour breakdown service.

A new fleet management solution, which is unique in the entire van sector, will in future collect all relevant data and make it available via various digital services. These added value services can provide information regarding maintenance status as well as the overall availability of the fleet.

The new MAN TGE will be on sale from March next near. Production starts in April 2017 with UK deliveries taking place in autumn 2017.