New LGV driving test standards come into effect next year and with them come new requirements for the training vehicles. Rather than look for a compromise, Lagta decided to go all out for a brand new, up to date fleet.

The six new MAN TGLs are all plated at 12 tonnes. All have the 240bhp engine with nine speed range change boxes. In addition the trucks are equipped with colour reversing cameras and two have VGB hitch locks for training on drawbar applications. All are EGR (non-AdBlue) and fitted with digital tachographs.

More than 500 trainees will use the trucks during their first year of service. "We chose MAN because they best met the new legal requirements', said Lagta's Gordon McGarvie. 'We've adapted the cabs to accommodate the third seat we need for training and fitted dual controls for the instructor. Dual controls are not usually seen on LGV training vehicles, but they add an extra element of safety".

Trainees now have the option of C+E training in either a wagon and drag, using the new MAN fleet, or the traditional 'artic route' in the group's Volvo tractor unit with a triaxle trailer.