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Transport for London has flagged down a fleet of 26 new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans, to help keep the capital’s bus network running smoothly.
The vehicles are kitted out as incident response units and sent in whenever a bus service is disrupted for any reason, to get things moving again as quickly as possible.
Supplied by Heathrow dealer Rygor Commercials, the Sprinters are all 150hp 315CDI models with automatic gearboxes and an array of additional features.
The Sprinter comes as standard with class-leading safety credentials, including the innovative Adaptive ESP® stability control system. To this platform Transport for London has added a series of factory options including fire extinguishers, steel bulkheads and passenger airbags to go alongside the standard drivers’ items, as well as glazed rear doors, and heated windscreens and rear windows and windscreens. The cabs are also equipped with electric windows, air-conditioning, satellite navigation systems and hands-free communication equipment.
Conversion specialist Bott, of Ashby-de-la-Zouch, has fitted a range of bespoke storage lockers in the cargo areas, to carry tools, ladders, temporary bus stop signs and a wide selection of spare parts and specialised equipment. Each van also has a work bench, power sockets, lighting and hand-washing facilities.
Anthony Akers, TfL Regional Operations Manager, says: “These vans are equipped to do whatever is necessary to keep the bus network moving, whether that involves setting up diversions, installing temporary bus stops, or dealing with damaged shelters. To do that, they have to carry a comprehensive stock of gear, and be able to get anywhere in Greater London safely and quickly.”
He continues: “The safety of our staff, ease of driving and the ability to carry the wide range of equipment we need to keep the bus network moving, were our main concerns.
“We set up a staff working party, which was heavily involved in choosing and specifying the new vans. The Mercedes Sprinter emerged as the best option, as well as being by far the most popular vehicle with our employees too.”
The 26 new vans will soon be joined by another 20 identical units, which have already been ordered, while a further 10 incident response units that are currently in service will be replaced at a later date. |
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