Lions on the test bench

Before MAN trucks and services are used as finished products by you, they undergo a wide range of tests and studies to achieve series maturity. Crucial here are the opinions and experience of the drivers involved in these processes as test subjects. One such professional driver is Cindy Schneppe, who shares her experiences from the MAN test laboratory here.

What will cockpit displays for the next generation of MAN assistance systems look like, or what are the distinguishing features of the driver’s cab of the future? Questions like these are on the agenda as part of the studies at the MAN driver’s workplace research centre, test benches of MAN Truck & Bus SE. The MAN test bench team not only builds on its own expertise, but also relies specifically on the active assistance of drivers who will be on the road with the state-of-the-art truck technologies. “It’s incredibly exciting to see what will be possible in the future,” says professional driver Cindy Schneppe, who has already participated in MAN studies and test drives several times as a test person. “I think it’s good that we are involved as drivers,” she says. Her boss is also always happy to support her with a day off so that she can take part in the MAN test series in Karlsfeld near Munich.

Cindy had imagined the MAN test laboratory to be something quite different and found it exciting to experience the processes live here. “The support was absolutely brilliant,” she says when describing how the MAN team welcomed her in the best possible way. And the experience in the driving simulator was absolutely fascinating. Redesigning products and optimising them for use – the opinions and knowledge of drivers play a decisive role for MAN in this regard. You experience real appreciation and feel taken seriously,” says Cindy about her experience from the test laboratory.

“We drivers can make an important contribution here and our opinion counts,”

says the experienced trucker. She also learned a lot and found it interesting to get to know the processes behind truck production. “In the end, the drivers get what they found good,” says Cindy, emphasising why she would also encourage all colleagues to apply as test subjects. “It’s a nice feeling to be able to say afterwards that I was involved in this idea,” explains Cindy, explaining why she would go back to the MAN test laboratory at any time. That’s why she also advises everyone else: “Write to MAN and apply!”