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A Reigate security firm wanted a van with extra bite to transport its German shepherd guard dogs – and found the perfect vehicle in the storming new Mercedes-Benz Vito Sport-X.
The stunning, limited edition model boasts a turbo-charged 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine mated to a five-speed automatic gearbox, and was supplied to Schutzhund Security by Crawley dealer Rossetts Commercials.
The gleaming black Vito Sport-X produces an eye-watering 204hp, sufficient to propel it from 0-60mph in just 8.3 seconds and on to a maximum speed of 122mph.
“Having that extra oomph means that if you get into a spot of trouble you can put your foot down and get out of it quickly,” says Schutzhund Securities’ co-Director Lee Gay.
“I also wanted a vehicle with a professional image which I could use when meeting clients, yet would still be fully functional as a working dog unit. The Vito Sport-X is a winner on both counts.”
The company, which is in the process of obtaining Approved Contractor status from the Security Industry Authority, supplies guards dogs to protect a wide variety of offices, warehouses and local authority premises. It was established as a limited company in June 2006 and has grown beyond expectations.
“We contract a lot of work out,” says Mr Gay, whose co-Director Christopher Gay just happens to share the same surname. “We only use German shepherds because they have been deployed successfully by the police, army and prison service over many years and do not have a very positive image, unlike some other breeds.”
Schutzhund Security’s new Vito Sport-X is a Dualiner model, with a second row of seats. The company spent nearly £6,000 on a conversion by Icecraft Refrigeration Services, of Blandford Forum, Dorset, which fitted two bespoke dog kennels that keep their canine occupants in climate-controlled luxury.
“We’ve really gone to town with this vehicle,” explains Mr Gay. “The interior is just incredible – there’s air-conditioning in the rear for the dogs and lighting in the individual kennels. They’ve even covered the kennels with black vinyl that matches the original trim. We’ve absolutely delighted with it.”
The Mercedes-Benz Vito Sport-X is a real head-turner, 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 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.
The twin themes of performance and exclusivity continue on the 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, of course, being a Mercedes-Benz, the Vito Sport-X combines all of that power and performance with a comprehensive armoury of high-tech active and passive safety systems, including the latest Adaptive Electronic Stability Program®.
“All the extras you get with the Vito Sport-X it makes worth paying that little bit more,” adds Mr Gay. “It’s also great fun to drive – the V6 engine is just fantastic.” |
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