Supplied by dealer Hughes of Aylesbury, both are fuel-efficient 90bhp engined 109 CDI models – one an Extra-long Crew van with a second row of seats, the other a Long-bodied variant – finished in eye-catching liveries and with alloy wheels.
“Dogs can identify tiny odour concentrations of around one part per trillion, the equivalent of a teaspoon of sugar in two Olympic-sized swimming pools,” explains charity chief executive officer Dr Claire Guest. “This gives them the ability to detect diseases.”
The charity is now using the Citans to collect the dogs from their homes and transport them in crates for training and to undertake their work with clients throughout the UK.
“We’ve previously leased our vehicles but did some calculations based on the fact that they’re covering the best part of 30,000 miles a year and concluded that it would now be more cost-effective to own them outright,” comments Dr Guest.
“There’s not a lot to choose between the two acquisition methods over the first three years, but we foresee a particular benefit once we get into years four and five.”
Commenting on Mercedes-Benz reputation for quality and longevity, Dr Guest adds: “Our new Mercedes-Benz vans look great and are attracting a lot of positive feedback from people who see them on the road, while the team members who’ve been using them are delighted.”
Medical Detection Dogs will be exhibiting at Crufts, which takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 9-12 March 2017 – along with Mercedes-Benz Vans, with a Vito Tourer and a Citan Crew Van.