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Steeplejack Jim Lacey is experiencing a new high, thanks to a stunning Mercedes-Benz van that’s loaded with ‘X appeal’.
His limited-edition Vito Sport-X Dualiner is powered by a turbo-charged 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine which is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission that pumps out an eye-watering 204hp. That’s sufficient to rocket this very special van from 0-60mph in just 8.3 seconds and on to a maximum speed of 122mph.
“It’s a superb motor and almost as much of a thrill as dangling on a rope from a high chimney,” declares Jim, founder and chairman of J Lacey Steeplejacks and J Lacey Industrial Services, which employ 10 people at Witton, Birmingham.
Established in 1979, the J Lacey group of companies offers various services across the Midlands including bird control and proofing, debris netting, lightning conductor protection and installation, and church restoration, as well as traditional steeplejack skills. Its clients include West Midlands Police, the Ministry of Defence and Railtrack, along with fire services and local authorities.
“I wanted to treat myself to a company vehicle that was a little bit different and I was blown away by the Vito Sport-X,” continues Jim. “Of course, as it’s a commercial vehicle – even a powerful one like this – I pay a lot less tax than if I’d gone for an equivalent Mercedes-Benz car.”
His metallic black van arrived via Aston dealer Gerard Mann Commercials, and turns heads wherever it goes, thanks in no small measure to Brabus. The renowned tuning and body styling specialist, whose products are usually to be found adorning high-end sports cars, has pitched in with its dynamic 18-inch Monoblock-S alloy wheels and an aggressively deep front spoiler with integrated foglamps.
Adding to its eye-catching style, the model also features a chrome front grille and chrome steel side bars with integrated steps, colour-coded bumpers and side trims, roof rails and – in case you were still in any doubt! – ‘Sport-X’ badges on the driver and front passenger doors, along with Brabus badges on the side, rear and front spoiler.
“My previous vehicle was a Vito 115CDI van, which I ran for four years, and was very pleased with,” adds Jim. “So when the time came to replace it, I naturally went back to Gerard Mann. And as soon as I saw the Sport-X I just knew it was the vehicle for me.
“I’m used to handling powerful machines – I also have four motorbikes – so I wasn’t daunted by the 204hp on tap. In fact, the Sport-X handles the power well and is very easy to drive.”
As practical as it is exciting, the Sport-X comes in Compact or Long body lengths, and as a standard van or Dualiner, with a second row of seats.
The twin themes of performance and exclusivity continue inside. There’s a soft-feel instrument panel with Silverstone trim, while the comfort seats, steering wheel and gearshift are all trimmed in leather. The driver also gets a multi-function steering wheel from which to control the COMAND radio, six-CD autochanger and satellite navigation system at the touch of a button.
Other features that enhance the vehicle’s driving appeal and comfort include cruise control with Speedtronic speed limiter, air-conditioning, light and rain sensors allowing for automatic operation of headlights and windscreen wipers, and electrically operated front windows and door mirrors.
And, being a Mercedes-Benz, the Vito Sport-X combines all that power and performance with a comprehensive armoury of active and passive safety systems, including the latest Adaptive Electoronic Satability Program®.
“It’s a great all round vehicle,” explains Jim. “There’s plenty of room in the back for my work gear, while the extra seats come in handy for transporting my grandchildren at weekends. It’s a delight to own and drive, and I get real pleasure from washing it on a Sunday!” |
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