According to Steve Bridge, managing director of Mercedes-Benz Vans, the objective of this first publication is to give transport operators across the board an opportunity to learn from best practice.
In addition to converge of technology for fleet operations, the Winter Operating paper, which can be found via www.mbvans.co.uk/industryinsight, also focuses on the growth of Sunday delivery services over the last two years.
Bridge makes the point that a surge in van operations is putting additional pressure on vehicle fleets.
One courier company, he says, reckons that the doors now open and close on its Sprinter vans on average more than 150 times a day.
Keeping vehicles on the road and operating at such a high level is the common thread tying all winter fleets together.
Statistics from MobiloVan – Mercedes-Benz Vans free 30-year roadside assistance offering – highlights that during week 48 in 2014, vehicle breakdowns increased by 26%, compared to the same week in 2013, reflecting the increase in vans on the road during Black Friday weekend.
“For courier companies to deliver on their promises, it is crucial that they choose a vehicle that can keep up with their demands,” comments Bridge.
“This time of year, not only do courier fleets have to deal with Black Friday, but also extremes in weather. We have already seen the first snow of the season, and the gritters are now officially out,” he continues.
“It is not by accident that Sprinter rules this sector, and we look forward to celebrating the successes of Black Friday with our customers.”