By Brian Yatich
Local Motor dealer, CMC Motors has renewed its market focus on the large passenger bus segment, with the delivery of the German Engineered (MAN) model buses.
The firm’s strategic focus on the large passenger buses with a capacity to carry 67 passengers, will see CMC Motors raising its sales, marketing and service ante for the locally assembled MAN buses.
Ahead of the festive season, CMC Motors has managed to close a deal to deliver 20 MAN Bus units to West Kenya based overland transport firm Climax Transport Ltd.
The operator of the popular ‘Climax’ christened buses operates from Nairobi to Kisumu, Eldoret, Kitale, Webuye and Busia among other destinations.
The entry of the MAN models with superior German engineering in the large bus market segment has been hailed as a game changer for CMC Motors.
Speaking when he confirmed the firm’s strategic focus, CMC Motors Managing Director, Wanjohi Kangangi said the MAN model introduced into the local market has been tropicalized to meet the demanding local conditions for passenger buses.
He added that CMC Motors will also be providing comprehensive after sales service for MAN Bus customers.
He expressed delight that an initial test project with Climax Transport Company earlier on in the year had inspired an order of 20 MAN buses. Overall, the order book for the MAN buses, he disclosed is fast growing as local operators continue to appreciate the quality of engineering and seamless bodybuilding advantages provided by Thika based Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) for CMC Motors customers.
CMC Motors Divisional Manager for Commercial Vehicles, David Wamathu, said that they have been working on a collaborative tropicalization programme with MAN counterparts in Germany geared at delivering a comfortable, passenger safety and fuel economy superior bus engine and chassis for the local market.
“We are delighted to have an ambassador of Climax’s calibre confirm that the Germans did what they are best known for – outstanding technical solutions. We were then able to localize and do the assembly and bodybuilding right here at (KVM) plant in Thika.” he added
The new MAN HB3 buses set on a rugged and reliable chassis, are powered by a 287kW (390hp) Euro3 common-rail MAN D20 diesel engine with TipMatic automated manual trans-mission system, and also features a ZF intarder, EBS braking system with a full air suspension for added passenger comfort.
