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.