COURIER company TNT Express has recently taken delivery of 12 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 309 CDI panel vans to add to its extensive fleet. TNT has been in operation since 1975 and forms part of a global network spanning over 200 countries and delivering over 3,6-million consignments a week.
“It is pleasing that a reputable company with as much experience in the express courier service partners with Mercedes-Benz Vans,” says Nicolai Berger, divisional manager, Mercedes-Benz Vans.
“The Sprinter model range is renowned for superior handling, safety, load-securing and fuel efficiency. With the Adaptive ESP 8.1 system and its outstanding braking systems, such as ABS, EBV, BAS and ASR are all standard features, setting the benchmark in terms of safety. The maneuverability and low interior noise levels of the Sprinter is also a determining factor for many of our customers,” adds Berger.
Mercedes-Benz provides a two- year/unlimited km factory warranty as well as 12year/unlimited km corrosion warranty on all NCV3 Sprinter models. Service intervals of up to 30000km can be achieved, thanks to the Assyst service reminder computer, which considers factors like the use of synthetic oil and 50ppm ultra low sulphur diesel. These service intervals bring down the running costs considerably.
The Sprinter product range covers virtually all applications — the panel vans alone offer load space from 9.0 to 14m³ . TNT has selected the Sprinter 309 CDI version which also achieves a claimed best-in-class loading width, and has a large sliding door of 1300mm, making access easily attainable, which is vital for the delivery service.
Driver convenience is provided by an all-new stowage concept based on specific driver and co- driver requirements. There are door compartments for large 1.5l drinks’ bottles, a spacious stowage area on the instrument panel, which is divided into three segments, and stowage compartments above the windscreen for driver and co-driver.
Load restraint has received close attention and sturdy load- securing rings are standard, as is a steel bulkhead on the panel van. A wooden load compartment floor with lashing rails are standard .
The Sprinter’s engines are proven in the van segment and the 309 CDI has a four-cylinder 2 148cc turbo diesel engine that delivers 65kW (88hp) of power and 220Nm of torque. One of the strong points of this engine include maximum torque from 1400 – 2600r/min, excellent fuel economy and low emissions at Euro 3 level. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a standard six- speed manual transmission. All these versions are fitted with a fuel-water separator filter to protect the engine from water-contaminated diesel.
Mercedes-Benz dealerships are strategically placed throughout southern Africa and this is a prime consideration for a successful partnership, as TNT’s extensive network covers 5000 destinations in the region. As part of the brand’s service promise Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles have always insisted that each dealership has a 24-hour emergency service unit and the recommendation was made that a dedicated mobile workshop be established as well.
John Williams Bloemfontein clinched this important deal. This multi-franchise facility retails the entire range of Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles among other products in the German manufacturers stable. The large showrooms have complete brand separation, making it convenient for the customer to receive individualised attention.
There is also a fully functional workshop, including 25 service bays, an inspection bay and a dedicated wheel alignment facility, all of which are fitted with the latest technical equipment to ensure services and maintenance of the vehicles are carried out within the minimum amount of downtime.