New, improved Thor dropside launched at CV Show
Apr 07
A new, improved Thor dropside is being launched by body manufacturer Ingimex at this year’s CV Show. The Thor dropside is specified by Citroen, Iveco, Renault Trucks, Vauxhall and Volkswagen for their core conversion programmes in the 3.5 tonne chassis class. It is also available in a variety of sizes for aftersales conversions on light commercial vehicles from Mercedes, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Renault.
According to Technical Director Jeremy Gallen, the revamped design not only improves the overall appearance of the Thor, but offers increased strength at a reduced weight: “The new sideboards are engineered to a one piece contoured design, and the top edge has been strengthened for greater impact resistance. The sideboards have been strengthened more generally to offer increased ‘burst’ resistance, and a new, removeable rear corner post improves the panel fit. The overall appearance is sleek, with discreet locking mechanisms and exterior surfaces that are ideal for branding and livery.”
Load security has also been explored in detail, with new lashing rings designed to improve structural integration as well as to increase the area of usable deck space. The new rings are more resistant to moisture and dirt clogging, and multiple rings can be added easily to the deck as and when required.
The refreshed design of the body platform sees an optimal strength subframe assembly with flush fit peripheral frame. There are no protruding fixings or profile edges and a ‘plug fit’ deck panel allows for easier repair. The bulkhead and ladder gantry remain unchanged, with a full width mesh panel offering maximum rear cab visibility and protection. The gantry load capacity of 250kg has been achieved through stringent safety and performance testing. Likewise, the steel-reinforced bulkhead provides cab protection from unrestrained loads, exceeding all international standards for cab protection. The bulkhead incorporates four recessed load restraint points for the positioning of high centre of gravity loads such as gas bottles.
With CV manufacturers looking for the highest standards in finish, function and safety, Ingimex continues to invest in improving manufacturing processes. Jeremy Gallen explained: “As a volume body manufacturer producing around 4,000 units a year, we invest in the engineering integrity and conformity of manufacture that is expected by the big name players. We go to great lengths to achieve strong but light designs with higher legal load capacities, better aesthetics, better componentry and with a higher residual value. The benefits to the operator are in finished, converted vehicles which have warranty terms in line with the base vehicle and aftersales support to match standards expected of the commercial vehicle market today.”
The new Thor model will be rolled out later this year across the full range of vehicles currently supplied.
Come & see for yourself the Ingimex difference.