IAA Transportation: MAN impresses visitors

Hydrogen to complement battery power

"But hydrogen combustion engines can also be useful for special applications," said the MAN CEO on the exhibition stage. That is why MAN presented the MAN hTGX at the IAA, a prototype of a hydrogen combustion engine truck that will be delivered in a small series of 200 vehicles starting in 2025. It is primarily aimed at customers for whose applications a battery-electric solution is not yet optimally suited. The impressive hTGX on display in Hannover, with its neon yellow design elements at the front and in the lettering, was an absolute eye-catcher and magically attracted the attention of the trade fair audience.

Increased efficiency aslo for diesel engines

During the press conference, Vlaskamp made it clear that the diesel is far from obsolete. That is why MAN is showcasing its new D30 PowerLion drivetrain for 2025 model year diesel trucks in Hannover, which can achieve fuel savings of up to four per cent.

"The drivetrain is based on the TRATON GROUP's common engine platform and is the tangible result of our development departments working together closely. At MAN, we produce combustion-engine and electric trucks on the same assembly line, which allows us to respond flexibly to the shift in demand towards electric trucks," Vlaskamp explained proudly. But he also issued a warning: "For the powertrain transition to succeed, the expansion of the charging infrastructure must be given absolute priority by politicians, infrastructure operators and manufacturers."

The desire for new mobility and visionary drive concepts attracted not only media representatives but also many other visitors: the 3,500-square-metre MAN stand was packed as soon as the gates opened on 17 September. Visitors wanted to take a look at the many world premieres, such as the MAN hTGX, eTGL, eTGX and the PowerLion diesel, as well as the numerous new digital services – including prominent politicians such as Federal Ministers Robert Habeck and Volker Wissing, as well as Minister-President Stephan Weil, various bloggers and well-known faces from the trucker scene.

The response in Hanover was huge in general: around 145,000 visitors came to the IAA Transportation 2024, a good ten percent more than in 2022. The range on offer was also impressive: almost 1,700 exhibitors from 41 countries presented over 145 world and trade fair premieres.

Technology you can touch

MAN was exhibiting in Hall 12, where the atmosphere was characterised by technical discussions, networking and a variety of activities – some of which involved visitors.

Almost all vehicles, vehicle components and digital systems were available to touch. Visitors to the fair were able to enter the cabs of the exhibits, gain initial experience with the cockpits and controls, and take a look at engines and battery packs without the "cover".

In addition, large touchscreens were set up throughout the area to experience and test the various digital systems and platforms. This allowed visitors to find out more about MAN Smart Charging and Simple Pay, the 360-degree comprehensive advice from MAN Transport Solutions or the various RIO applications – or to configure an MAN TGE to their personal requirements on a large video wall using a web configurator. Those who wanted to experience even more MAN were able to take the eTGX, eTGS, hTGX, TGE with all-wheel drive and the special "100 years of MAN Diesel" TGX model for a test drive in Hall 11. A suitable driving licence was of course required. The MAN Trucker Bar also became a popular meeting place for trade fair visitors.

A complete success

At IAA Transportation 2024, MAN was able to establish numerous new customer contacts, make a positive impression and also do a brisk business. Every order concluded at the trade fair was celebrated with a clearly audible buzzer sound, a lion's roar, when the contract was signed. And the lion was heard with gratifying frequency! There was another reason to celebrate: the hTGX was honoured with the ‘Truck Innovation Award 2025’ at the exclusive evening event ‘Stars of the Year 2024’. This is the third year in a row that MAN has won this prestigious award.

"Good visualisation, nice, knowledgeable staff"

"The MAN stand is very impressive and well planned," says Lovisa Bergström, an IAA visitor from Sweden. “You can spend a lot of time here, the digital applications are well visualised and explained in an understandable way by the nice and knowledgeable MAN staff.” A nice compliment for the dedicated stand personnel.

After six successful days at the IAA Transportation 2024, one thing was clear: with its comprehensive portfolio of new electric, hydrogen-powered and efficient diesel trucks, as well as a successful mix of innovations, entertainment and personal interaction, MAN was able to inspire visitors in Hanover – and show that the company is actively shaping the future of the transport industry. For MAN, the IAA Transportation was more than just a trade fair: it was clear proof that the company is not only at the cutting edge of technology, but can also inspire experts, customers and the general public.