The new models include the Ford Fiesta Van, Connect, Custom and Transit, along with the Mercedes Citan, Vito and Sprinter. They are pre-fitted with internal fixtures and fittings, such as racking and storage solutions, specifically designed for the plumbing, electrical, joinery and general construction trades.
Supply time from order is between 14 and 21 days and the vehicles can be used as soon as they are delivered, eliminating the long lead-time that usually accompanies van conversions. According to Lex, Driveaway ready-fitted vehicles can also generate savings of up to 20% compared with the cost of leasing and converting a vehicle separately.
Ford and Mercedes join existing manufacturing partners Vauxhall and Fiat, bringing the total number of models available to 12. Lex Autolease has worked with van racking experts Tevo to develop industry-standard internal specifications.
Commenting on the partnership, Marcus Puddy, commercial vehicles director at Lex Autolease, said: ‘Our Driveaways vehicles are the ideal solution for tradespeople looking to manage costs and increase productivity. The financial and operational benefits, particularly the removal of vehicle downtime, have already been felt by many of our customers, and adding Ford and Mercedes to our roster of partners will enhance our range of vehicle choices even further.’