MAFI History

1957 The origin of MAFI

The history of MAFI can be traced back to 1957. Initially, the company specialized in the production of drawbar and low-bed trailers for industry, cargo handling and seaports.

1963/64Introduction of the RoRo system

In the 1960s, MAFI developed the Roll On / Roll Off (RoRo) system, setting the standard for efficiency and economy for the loading and unloading of ships. The cargo / roll trailer system, consisting of tractor, gooseneck and roll trailer, revolutionized the handling of goods in seaports worldwide.

This development drastically reduced loading and unloading times. With a MAFI roll trailer it became possible use a loading ramp instead of having to lift the load with a crane. Worldwide, roll trailers were simply called “MAFIs”

This efficient system is still used in seaports and in industry today.

1965MAFI Trac 65/A4

MAFI designed the first universal tractors for the RoRo system and for terminal applications. These tractors were equipped with a hydraulically operated fifth wheel plate and an automatic transmission. The power of these tractors made it possible to use them to move heavy loads up the ships’ steep loading ramps.

1975Reorganization under the name MAFI Transport-Systeme GmbH

The company has been operating under the name MAFI Transport-Systeme GmbH in Tauberbischofsheim since 1975, producing and selling tractors, as well as heavy-duty trailers, roll trailers and goosenecks at a facility with an area of around 75,000 square meters.

MAFI also manufactures for its associated company, TREPEL Airport Equipment GmbH. The products of this company also belong to the field of industrial trucks or lifting and handling equipment, but are specially designed for the airport ground support equipment market.

1987'Eidechse’ Electric Towing Truck

For more than 100 years, the Eidechse has been synonymous with reliability and durability for the in-house transport of heavy loads. MAFI first built the electric tractors in Schwieberdingen and then, later, at the current location in Tauberbischofsheim.

1989Special-Purpose Vehicles

MAFI continued to develop itself into a strong partner for seaports and industry. With great dedication, special vehicles, consisting of platform wagons and rail-mounted platforms, have been put into versatile use in industry as customized, individual solutions in the form of self-propelled vehicles or as part of an automated system. They have been designed with either electric propulsion or combustion engines.

However, in 2008, as MAFI adjusted its focus more towards other growing and higher volume markets, the applications in the field of diesel tractors, trailer and trailer systems, as well as the development of electric tractors took precedence over the special-purpose vehicles.

1990Trac Generation MT

MAFI redesigned its complete range of tractors when developing the MT generation. The focus was on increased performance requirements and ergonomic and safe working conditions for drivers.

With the range consisting of the MT25, MT30, MT32, MT36 and MT45 tractors, customers could select the correct vehicle for their specific transport requirements. Further development goals were fulfilled, such as the development of robust chassis, driving comfort and visibility, as well as increased product quality. The modular system across the entire Trac family has allowed for shorter turnaround times in production and maximum flexibility for meeting customers’ needs.

1997Certification according to DIN 9001

MAFI intensified its quality management system and received the initial certification according to DIN EN ISO 9001. This was a further step in the direction of becoming a global player in industry and seaport.

2000-2002Certification according to DIN EN ISO 3834-2

In 2000, MAFI’s intensive quality awareness permitted its welding work to be certified according to DIN EN ISO 729

In 2002, MAFI also received certification according to DIN EN ISO 18800.

In 2006, these certifications were replaced by DIN EN ISO 3834-2: 2006 which MAFI still carries today.

2002MAFI Trac-Lift MTL

The MAFI Trac-Lift was built in Tauberbischofsheim and designed especially for the quick transfer of swap bodies. The MTL was equipped with a hydrostatic drive concept and a spacious cab. Due to the geometry of the vehicle, the MTL had the narrowest lifting frame and the lowest pick-up of any vehicle on the market. This and the robust construction made the MTL one of the most popular vehicles for handling parked swap bodies.

2005MAFI Terminal Trac MT 25 YT

In order to meet the increased ergonomic standards and occupational safety requirements in European seaports, MAFI developed another milestone in the history of the corporation, the MT 25 YT.

The completely new cab design and the redesigned vehicle components set entirely new standards of comfort and functionality. With its wide variety of additional options, the MT 25 YT also became a popular vehicle in distribution and industry. Success in non-European seaports and with industrial customers also helped to endorse this vehicle concept.

2010MAFI Terminal Trac T 230

The Terminal-Trac T 230 was launched in 2010 after much redevelopment. The driver’s cab was completely redesigned and its spacious interior and excellent all-around visibility make it popular with operators. Furthermore, the new design also took into account the newest exhaust requirements for diesel engines.

The redevelopment also included features that make maintenance easier and optimize the production process.

With the T 230, MAFI has succeeded in further expanding globally and meeting the diverse requirements of customers worldwide.

2017/18MAFI Facility Expansion

In order to keep up with demand, the production facility in Tauberbischofsheim has been expanding continuously.

Additionally, the new Visitor Center was opened in 2017. Customers and suppliers are now welcomed in the new meeting rooms. The state-of-the-art presentation equipment is ideal for training customers and technicians.

In 2018, the presentation area adjacent to the Visitor Center was completed. This allows for a proper presentation of new equipment.

2018DIN EN ISO 14001:2015

MAFI has an environmental management system certified in accordance with DIN EN ISO 14001: 2015 for the scope of development, design, manufacture, sales and service of powered and non-driven industrial trucks.

2019Certification according to DIN ISO 45001:2018

MAFI has obtained a certificate for the implementation and application of a health and safety management system according to DIN ISO 45001:2018 for the development, design, manufacture, distribution and after sales service of powered and non-powered industrial trucks.

Today

MAFI belongs to the NDW Group Eberbach. The focus is on vehicles for container handling and RoRo traffic in seaports, vehicles for distribution, as well as the transport of goods in heavy industry.

By optimizing our capacities, we will expand our technical lead and continue to be a competent partner in helping you find a solution for your transport needs.

Thanks to positive business developments in recent years, MAFI Transport-Systeme GmbH now employs around 400 people today.