Essex-based Tower Security is patrolling clients' premises and homes with a new Mercedes-Benz Citan, after comparing its servicing costs and warranty to those of similar-sized vans from rival manufacturers.
The Long-bodied Citan 109 CDI BlueEfficency will average 100,000 miles a year, and comes equipped with stop/start technology, low rolling resistance tyres and optimised alternator and battery management systems.
Mercedes-Benz claims these measures help the van to achieve economy figures of up to 65.7mpg and CO2 emissions of 112g/km.
"We were on the verge of buying another make of van, which was a bit cheaper up front, until I asked for a price to cover three years' servicing," recalls Tower Security managing director Miles Hill.
"Because of the high mileage it was hugely expensive, and the vehicle would have been out of warranty after the first year. By contrast, the Citan's servicing costs, from Orwell Truck & Van, were very competitive."
Hill says the Citan came with a three-year, unlimited mileage warranty, which, he believes, says a great deal about the confidence that Mercedes-Benz has in its product.
"The Citan is using a lot less fuel than our other vans and represents a huge step forward for us in terms of quality," continues Hill.
"Mercedes-Benz also has a great brand image and our new van looks a lot more professional when we're visiting clients' premises."
