26 November 2009

The first new-generation Unimog U4000 to reach South Africa’s shores was recently handed over with a full driver training demonstration and vehicle familiarisation session at Sodwana Bay – one of the new owner’s favourite fishing spots.

Local foundry entrepreneur, Grant Estman from Vereeniging, needed a vehicle to tow his fishing vessel and equipment. He approached his local Mercedes-Benz dealer, New Vaal Motors, who in turn contacted head office for the solution. Having recently launched the Unimog at the various dealers through a road show, Unimog demonstrator, Ferdi de Beer was quite eager to show Estman what the Unimog was capable of doing.

The initial demonstration did the trick and an order for a U4000 double-cab was confirmed. The order takes up to 6 months from confirmation and is custom built. The measurements and specifications for the body was given to an accredited Mercedes-Benz bodybuilder, TFM. A suitable drop-side body was manufactured and fitted to the client’s requirements, together with a
15 000 lb winch.

Fishing is an international sport and Estman takes his hobby extremely seriously, having participated in a number of international fishing competitions, including a more recent one in Mexico. A serious sport requires serious equipment and the Unimog is the perfect fit for his boat and trailer. The Unimog U4000 has a Euro 3 engine, giving 160 kW (218 hp) of power and 810 Nm of torque, has a gross combination mass (GCM) of 25 500 kg and can tow up to 10 tonnes with ease.

“With its unique off-road capabilities, thanks to its flexible ladder-type frame for high rigidity on the road and its amazing torsional flexibility off-road, its superior 4-wheel-drive with differential locks in both axles, as well as portal axles to provide ample ground clearance will make it that much easier for Mr. Estman to traverse any fishing spot in toughest Africa,” says De Beer.

“With its excellent approach angle of 44° or departure angle of 51°, and a slope climbing ability of up to 100% together with a fording ability depth of 1,20 m, the Unimog will get Estman to anywhere his fishing jaunts take him. Even when driving through water, the aggregates and electrical installations remain high and dry, thanks to its thrust tube technology and special sealing methods that prevent water or fine drifting sand from seeping in, including the standard range fuel tank of 160 litres,” adds De Beer.

Asked for his impressions of the Unimog, Estman responded; “As soon as I drove the vehicle, I knew I had not made a mistake. I was actually more impressed with the vehicle once I discovered and experienced all the extra convenience features such as the quick reverse function, which is of huge benefit to me. Another feature is the CTIS (central inflation system), where you can inflate or deflate the tyre pressure to suit the type of surface you are on, by simply pressing a button whilst on the move. A great time-saver!”

“We are delighted that Mr Estman has taken the opportunity of an official handover, together with an intense driver training course, in the environment that the vehicle will be used. This allowed us to demonstrate and experience the full benefits of his vehicle,” concludes De Beer.