As a leading provider of low-carbon energy solutions, Vital Energi demands the most exacting standards of fuel economy and low emissions from its vehicle fleet. That’s why it invests in Mercedes-Benz vans.
The company, which works on projects throughout the UK, is now running a fleet of 30 Citan 109 CDI Long and nine Sprinter 313 CDI Short panel vans, delivered in batches over the past six months by Ciceley Commercials, the reigning Mercedes-Benz Van Dealer of the Year.
All are BlueEFFICIENCY models equipped with a package of fuel-saving feature including an alternator management system, improved underbody aerodynamics and the ECO start/stop function, which automatically cuts the engine while the vehicle is stationary, to minimise wasteful idling.
Vital Energi’s Mercedes-Benz vans work on high-profile projects across the country: examples include a major urban regeneration project at London’s Royal Arsenal Riverside Development, and a low-carbon heating and hot water system at the Athletes’ Village constructed for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.
Group Fleet Manager Paul Carberry said: “Energy efficiency is our field of expertise so naturally we expect our vehicles to be as sustainable as possible in terms of fuel use and exhaust emissions. The average carbon footprint per vehicle of our fleet is already way below the target specified by the European Union, and these new vans will only help to reinforce our position.
“During my time in the transport industry I have experienced vehicles from most leading manufacturers, and Mercedes-Benz Vans are head and shoulders above the competition when it comes to reliability. The fact that we have access to round-the-clock support from the manufacturer’s dedicated 24-hour dealer network is also a significant plus-point for Vital Energi’s operational needs.”
Vital Energi’s Sprinters are equipped with On-Board Power Systems – engine-driven generators that power fusion welding equipment used by engineers who install heating and power systems. Its Citans, meanwhile, are utilised by Operations and Maintenance engineers who provide ongoing 24/7 support.
“We’ve operated Sprinters for some years but until Mercedes-Benz launched the Citan a couple of years ago we always had to shop elsewhere for vehicles of this size,” continued Mr Carberry. “We’re delighted that now we can source all our vans from a single, reliable supplier. Since the vans went on the road I’ve had reports from drivers saying how pleased they are with their new Citans.”
