Mark Huhn realises his childhood dream with the MAN TGX

Based in Hessia, Germany, Huhn is continuing his family's tradition as a professional truck driver

When Mark Huhn talks about his MAN TGX, his enthusiasm for it is palpable. The experienced trucker is continuing a family tradition started by his grandfather. But what is it that makes the MAN brand so special to him, and why is he still so passionate about it after all these years?

At just seven years old, Mark sat on his father's lap in an MAN F2000 for the first time and was even allowed to steer. That moment was to shape the course of his life: "That's something that stays with you," he recalls. "I always thought it was great – the huge driver's cab, the view from above and the whole feeling of sitting in the truck."

Mark relies on MAN

Huhn has been a professional driver since 2008 and still prefers to drive MAN, emphasising the easier handling compared to other marques.

No other option comes close for me – I really appreciate the quality and the driving experience. With MAN, the layout and configuration of various vehicle functions is easier to operate. “

For the past four months, Mark has been on the road for Hildermann Transporte in a very special vehicle: an MAN TGX with MAN HydroDrive, customised according to his personal preferences. His boss took the opportunity to have the truck customised for him – including chrome applications inside and out, and a variety of other extras that not only make driving life more pleasant, but also more stylish. "I don't know what MAN could do better in its latest version", he enthuses.

Mark is proud of his vehicle and thanks his bosses W. Hildermann and A. Hildermann for their trust, appreciation and the opportunity to drive this specific truck every day.

Between freedom and responsibility

What Mark especially appreciates about his job is the freedom: "Perhaps the best thing is that you are still your own boss a little bit. You can make a lot of decisions yourself that you might not be able to make in other industries."

At the same time, he emphasises the great responsibility that the job entails: "Nine hours of full concentration – many outsiders underestimate that." He is particularly critical of drivers who are careless at the wheel: "It's dangerous – you're not only jeopardising your own safety, but also that of others."

Despite his passion for the profession, Mark also recognises the challenges of the industry. He is concerned about the lack of parking spaces and the lack of recognition for drivers.

I would like the profession to receive greater recognition again and for politicians to take more care of drivers. For driving to be a worthwhile profession again – whether in terms of recognition or reasonable pay. “

Advice for the next generation

His most important tip for anyone who wants to become a driver: "Always work conscientiously and calmly in the job. Most mistakes happen when you're rushing things."

Despite all the challenges, Mark remains true to his passion. Today, his routes are mainly in the Ruhr region and the Cologne area. Thanks to his dispatcher, R. Schick, who takes great care with meticulous planning to ensure that Mark can be at home with his family almost every evening. This level of respect and organisation cannot be taken for granted.

The freedom of the road and his MAN – for Mark, a combination that has lost none of its appeal even after 15 years.

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