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When computer distribution and installation specialist Paul Ponsonby needed a unique vehicle to deliver products throughout Europe for several large IT manufacturers, it knew exactly where to turn for the right hardware – Mercedes-Benz.
Based on a 5.0-tonne Sprinter 515CDI chassis, and resplendent in the Birmingham-based company’s metallic silver livery, the latest addition to the company fleet is certainly a head-turner.
Features include an unusually proportioned aluminium body by VFR, of Birmingham, which is 3.4 metres long and 2.5 metres high, giving the door height and internal dimensions needed to accommodate large computers and associated equipment.
The body incorporates loadlocks and padded rails to protect its delicate cargoes, as well as a large side door for kerbside loading and unloading.
The Sprinter’s BAR cantilever tail-lift with 750kg capacity and Hatcher Components cab-top sleeper pod are also rarities on a vehicle of this size, while it rides on full air suspension fitted by a specialist in The Netherlands.
When placing his order with Birmingham dealer Gerard Mann Commercials, Managing Director Paul Ponsonby chose several items from the Mercedes-Benz options list as well.
To the new-generation Sprinter’s comprehensive standard specification he added air-conditioning, a Comfort driver’s seat, front fog lights and a 100-litre fuel tank (the standard tank has a 75-litre capacity).
Mr Ponsonby, who founded the business that bears his name eight years ago, says: “We focused on weight rather than cubic capacity and calculated that a 5.0-tonne chassis represented the optimum size for this application.
“There aren’t many vehicle manufacturers that even offer a product in this weight category, and the Mercedes is clearly the quality runner in the field.
“Our new Sprinter is typically covering 1,500 miles each week and carries the weight really well, while its size brings an additional benefit when we reach the ferry ports – because it’s under six metres long, we pay the minimum for commercial vehicle crossings.”
Mr Ponsonby adds: “The Sprinter has cost more than £40,000, which is a lot of money for a vehicle of this size. But it’s perfectly tailored to the job and we’re really pleased with it.”
Winner of the Motor Transport Customer Care Award in 2003 and 2004, Paul Ponsonby has a young and dynamic management team who also offer bespoke warehousing solutions.
From its headquarters in the Heartlands district of Birmingham, and from two other warehouse sites in the West Midlands, the company operates a mixed-marque truck and van fleet.
“My oldest vehicle is a 17-tonne Mercedes 1820 that was first registered 13 years ago and is still running perfectly,” adds Mr Ponsonby. “That’s been a great tool and if my new Sprinter proves similarly reliable then I’ll be very happy.” |
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