Supplied by Euro Commercials, Cardiff, the Pembrokeshire-based operator’s new additions are all long-bodied, high-roofed models and are the subject of CharterWay contract hire agreements with Mercedes-Benz Financial Services. One, like its predecessor, is a 5.0-tonne 516 CDI; the other two are 3.5-tonne 314 CDIs.
The new vans feature advanced EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) and BlueTEC SCR (selective catalytic reduction) diesel technology. Exhaust gases are fed through a catalytic converter, where they are mixed with AdBlue to further purify them before they exit the tailpipe.
Wales Environmental’s latest vehicles are based at its Cardiff Drain Cleaning Company operation on the city’s Alexandra Dock, and are equipped with CCTV camera and high-pressure jetting systems.
Transport manager John Jones says: “We’re now choosing the Sprinter for its reliability and durability – experience has proved that even with 300,000 miles and more on the clock, the engines just keep on going and you don’t get body components falling off, as you would with other makes of van.
“The Sprinter is equally popular with our operatives, who appreciate its comfort and reassuring array of safety systems.”
The company operates 40 vans, nine of which are Mercedes. It previously sourced Mercedes vans from another provider but, says Jones, “we are now looking forward to building a long-term partnership with Euro Commercials”.
He adds: “As far as maintenance costs are concerned, the contract hire deals allow us to budget with confidence, knowing there are no nasty surprises around the corner. Not only do these agreements represent excellent value for money, they also mean that every three years we’ll get a smart new van.
The Sprinters are backed by three-year, unlimited mileage warranties and MobiloVan cover, which includes free roadside assistance for up to 30 years.