The Drain Group (TDG) has welcomed twelve Volkswagen Amaroks into the company’s trans-Tasman fleet.
As a leading provider of sustainable waste management and recycling solutions across Australia and New Zealand, these new additions come at a crucial time for TDG.

With over 570 dedicated employees and a fleet exceeding 250 vehicles, TDG’s investment in the Amarok amplifies their capability to deliver innovative environmental solutions to a range of industries.

The specifications laid out by TDG required nothing short of excellence: double cab, 4WD, automatic transmission, all in a white livery. But beyond the standard requisites, TDG sought a custom fit-out to optimise their fleet’s functionality.

Tasked with a rigid timeframe, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, in collaboration with Custom Fleet, Fleetline, and Tristram West, delivered a tailored solution.

Mike Shutes, TDG’s Fleet Manager, elaborated on their decision-making process: “VW could deliver within the time frame – this was a two week turn-around and included a painted canopy and a tray liner. Our decision was a combination of a strong relationship deriving from our purchase of Crafter vans and how VW met our expectations in terms of fleet management.”

Building on their seamless track record, TDG found Volkswagen to be the obvious choice for the job.

The Amarok Life, selected by Shutes, has a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine, complemented by a six-speed automatic transmission and 4MOTION 4WD capability with low range.

Its impressive safety systems ensure confidence on the road for TDG’s workforce. There’s a full suite of features including front, side, centre and knee airbags, forward collision assist, and even junction assist, an autonomous emergency braking system, leading to a five-star ANCAP safety rating.

Inside the Amarok Life, refinement meets functionality, with dual-zone air conditioning, a state-of-the-art 12.3-inch instrument cluster display, and a multifunction leather steering wheel. With a payload capacity of 944kg and towing capability of up to 3,500kg, the Amarok Life is equipped to handle almost any task thrown its way, even in the most challenging off-road environments. It has 217mm of ground clearance and 800mm wading capability. Importantly, the Life – like all Amarok models available in New Zealand – is a double-cab, maximising its crew-carrying ability.

These new Amaroks will serve as the backbone of TDG’s operations, facilitating the transportation of team members to and from work sites, particularly in low-grip off-road conditions where 4WD capability is essential.

Tristram West has been vital in ensuring the transition runs smoothly. From PDI to the conversion centre, and then the final pit stop, with delivery to TDG and their team. With a fleet already featuring VW Crafter MWB and LWB high roof vans, the addition of the Amarok cements TDG’s reputation for reliability, ensuring smooth operations and dependable service delivery.

For more information on Volkswagen’s tailored solutions for fleet offerings, visit www.volkswagen.co.nz.