Magical gleaming lions

What a wonderful surprise for Maik Brechlin and Kilian Kopp: Their boss delighted the two fibre-optic fitters with two spectacularly converted MAN TGEs. These unique vans go by the names Black Pearl and Black Lion and have been elaborately designed by MAN Individual.

“Our boss sent us to MAN Truck & Bus Service Göttingen to collect the vehicles. We only knew the number plates and had no idea that two very special MAN TGEs were waiting for us. I was completely overwhelmed by the surprise,” recounts Maik.

Maik and Kilian are delighted with their MAN TGE

The two vans go by the names Black Pearl and Black Lion and are instant head turners thanks to the respective lettering above the windscreen. Extra headlights, trim strips and the special bodywork and interior lighting round off the striking look in red, grey and black. What’s more, these MAN TGE vehicles boast special features that may not be instantly noticeable: These include air suspension, air horns, the shelving system and the rear leather wall in the interior.

And let's not forget about functionality. “The driving feels very relaxed, and the van offers plenty of space,” says Kilian, who now drives the Black Lion. The 23-year-old from Lower Saxony also particularly likes: “The displays in the cockpit and the infotainment system are really clear and so easy to operate.” Maik is equally as impressed with his Black Pearl. “I come from the coast, so Black Pearl is perfect for me,” adds the 33-year-old, who lives in Templin in Brandenburg. Maik is also a car enthusiast outside of work and is fascinated by vehicle conversions. He previously drove a MAN TGX in long-haul transport.

The two fibre-optic fitters travel the length and breadth of Germany in the Black Pearl and Black Lion to visit construction sites, with their new vans adding more than a touch of fun to their work. Fibre-optic cables are predominantly used for communication systems in buildings. Maik is responsible for injecting glass fibre into conduits. Kilian connects the cable harnesses with sleeves and carries out the final removal. Astonished looks and positive reactions are guaranteed wherever the two appear. “Our MAN TGEs attract a lot of attention,” says Maik.

Subheading – Appreciation of the special kind

The vans were purchased by Christopher Löbner, the 38-year-old managing director of Löbner Glasfasermontage GmbH based in Duderstadt, Lower Saxony. He ordered the conversion of the two vans from MAN Individual – with the very deliberate intention of showing Maik and Kilian how much he appreciates their commitment to his company. And not to mention the positive advertising effect the vehicles have for his company, with their luminous, eye-catching design. “I am passionate about designing memorable vehicles,” says Christopher. “This passion has also been passed on to my employees.”