Custom-built: KTM Nordic transports motorcycles with an Actros 1833

KTM Nordic Oy is a subsidiary of the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM. In addition to Finland, the company also sells in the Baltic states – in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania where the company has dealerships which are co-ordinated via the main dealership in Vantaa. Kimmo Hurri, head of marketing at KTM Nordic reports that since the company’s founding the co-operation with Veho Oy has been extremely good.

Thus the black and orange Actros 1833 was custom-built for operations at KTM Nordic Oy. “It plays an important role at various marketing and test-drive events as well as in the company’s racing business,“ Hurri says. “The truck serves as a mobile base on which ten motorcycles are transported as well as the eight-metre-long tent construction, for example. Some of the tent elements are integrated into the load compartment and some on its roof."

KTM is a well-known and respected brand at race tracks around the world. The company is well-represented and successful at the international road race, motocross and enduro series. It supports Finnish drivers at a national level as well as several aspiring motor racing athletes at an international level. Hurri: “KTM Motorsport Finnland is KTM Nordic’s own racing team; the home base, so to speak, for our drivers who mainly participate in races abroad.”

Hurri explains that the current Actros was developed in a collaborative effort between KTM Nordic and Veho. “We have received a vehicle that is perfectly tailored to our requirements and budget. It has everything it needs and nothing that is unnecessary. The body was made by Fokor. Our team of three with Veho and Fokor worked unbelievably well and efficiently throughout the entire process.”

 – Mika Rajala

In the main the Actros is a means of transport, but at the same time a home on wheels for staff. The room in the front section of the transport area is heated and has cupboards and a well-equipped kitchenette with an oven, refrigerator and micro-wave. The room also has an electricity supply, a water tank and beds for two people. “That is important for our work,” says Hurri. “Because there are still race tracks that don’t have a hotel within a radius of 50 kilometres. So we cook and sleep in the vehicle. And in the Actros it’s really cosy.” The load compartment for the ten motorcycles, spare parts and other equipment is located in the area at the back.

Rajala: “The Actros is very easy to drive. The seat position is perfect, your legs don’t get numb and all in all the settings are good. I have driven long tours in it through central Europe and have never got tired. Sleeping in the bed in the Actros is pleasant too. I have slept in the cab for several nights, almost better than I do at home.”

www.ktm.com/fi

Photos: Marko Mäkinen