Nicol of Skene CEO Derek Nicol says the firm the medium-length 313 CDI model is like nothing else on the market in terms of load space, payload, off-road performance and reliability.
“We did try a demonstrator by another manufacturer but it was an after-market conversion, and the ride height was far too low,” states Nicol.
“By contrast, the Sprinter’s ground clearance is excellent, while the fact that it is factory-built also means that it’s covered by a single, comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty.”
Nicol’s latest van has been racked out for tools and equipment by Nicol’s own workshop team, while a cargo compartment provides space for engineers to change out of wet or muddy protective clothing.
Nicol explains that the firm’s Sprinter 4x4s support a range of utilities and civil engineering projects, citing for example the Clyde Windfarm site in Lanarkshire, which is more than two hours’ drive from the nearest road.
“Without the Sprinter 4x4s we couldn’t guarantee that our employees would be able to get to work in places like these,” he says.
“They’re extremely reliable too... The last thing you want when you’re miles from civilisation is a stranded van, but our Sprinter 4x4s have never let us down.”
Nicol also rates the service from the Aberdeen branch of dealer Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles.
“Our orders are always handled smoothly and professionally and the vans are extremely well presented. We carry out most of the vehicle maintenance ourselves but rely on the dealer for parts deliveries.”