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For some Mercedes-Benz Vans customers, their vehicles are perfectly suited for their needs just as they come from the factory. Most owners have more specialised requirements for their new van though, and want to configure it to meet their individual purposes. But how can they customise their vehicle without compromising its safety, capability and integrity?

 

 

That’s where the Mercedes-Benz VanPartner program comes in. VanPartners are specialist vehicle bodybuilders who are evaluated and certified by Mercedes-Benz. Each one works to our exacting standards to produce custom fit-outs for specific uses while maintaining the qualities Mercedes-Benz Vans are renowned for.

 

 

To get a better understanding about how using VanPartners benefits owners, we sat down with Mercedes-Benz Australia’s Sales Engineering Manager to ask a few questions about the program.

1. What types of fit-outs can VanPartners do?

While it’s early days for the local VanPartner program, a wide range of builds are undertaken globally. These range from relatively simple fit-outs such as panelling and shelving to more complex constructions like box bodies and refrigeration units. More intricate builds include bus conversions with wheelchair accessibility, high-end motorhome conversions and even exceptionally complex projects like ambulances.

2. Can you tell us about the history of the VanPartner program, and why it was introduced in Australia?

Vehicles are becoming increasingly complex, from safety and environmental systems to creature comforts and connectivity, so the work carried out by bodybuilders is more complex too.

 

As vehicles evolve, incorporating intricate safety, environmental, and connectivity systems, the tasks performed by bodybuilders have also become more complex to accommodate these advancements.

Over time, we've observed an increasing demand from bodybuilders for guidance and support throughout the construction process.

Upon studying the practices of our counterparts in Germany, we've discovered that the VanPartner program proactively addresses this need. The program's emphasis on close collaboration ensures that fit-outs adhere to our stringent quality standards, while actively preparing our partners for the various build scenarios they encounter. Ultimately, this approach provides customers with peace of mind.

“My greatest satisfaction comes from collaborating with the people who create these fit-outs, helping bring their dreams and ideas to life.”

3. Why should customers choose a VanPartner for their fit-out?

Using a VanPartner guarantees your bodybuilder is well acquainted with the modification guidelines for your vehicle and has the knowledge and tools to complete the work successfully. It also provides you with peace of mind that the fit-out is backed by the aftersales service, support and warranty you expect from a certified Mercedes-Benz VanPartner.

4. What standards do VanPartners need to meet to become certified?

Only companies with ISO 9001 certification related to vehicle conversions and bodybuilding qualify to become a VanPartner. Currently, there are 197 active bodybuilders registered in Australia, but only around 10% of them have this certification.

 

Also, VanPartners must maintain a national service and support network that can supply critical parts within 48 hours, offer warranty coverage for their products in line with the base vehicle warranty, and have their products verified by Mercedes-Benz.

5. What are your favourite fit-outs?

My greatest satisfaction comes from collaborating with the people who create these fit-outs, helping bring their dreams and ideas to life while ensuring the vehicles they build are enduring and as reliable as possible. I particularly have a soft spot for applications designed to assist people, such as ambulances and vehicles tailored for those with restricted mobility.