Fleets and drivers can now access new digital services – including digital drivers’ logs – for free on all new Mercedes-Benz vans.
The services form part of the Mercedes Pro Connect connected vehicle services, introduced with the latest-generation Sprinter in June 2018 and now included free of charge for three years on all new Mercedes vans.
The new services – which are available for all vehicles activated after 13 January 2020 but should also be available for previously connected vehicles by the end of Q1 – cover ‘Remote Access’ and ‘Digital Driver’s Log’
Remote Vehicle Access enables an assigned driver to lock and unlock the vehicle and operate the optional auxiliary heater (if fitted) from anywhere in the world. This allows packages to be dropped off to the load compartment, for example, even if the driver is not with the vehicle. In addition, the driver is able to set the vehicles’ optional auxiliary heater. If the keys are locked in the vehicle, they can also now be retrieved more easily. It also offers improved anti-theft protection, as unlocked vehicle doors are noticed, flagged on the system, and can be remotely locked again.
In the case of the Digital Driver’s Log, this enables journey logs to be generated into an exportable PDF file that can be kept for company records, or can be used to assist vehicle managers or administrators in calculating mileage claims and a complete record of all journeys.
The new services form part of Mercedes’ six-monthly updates to its Pro Connect solutions; last year saw it add driver style monitoring and electric mobility services, as well as real-time variable servicing monitoring, parking time monitor and additional geo-fence options.
Steve Bridge, managing director, Mercedes-Benz Vans UK, said: “We are committed to enhancing the value our connected vehicle services that we offer to our customers to help keep their businesses moving. We don’t want to introduce gimmicks; we truly believe that these digital services will add genuine value to the van community and provide small ways to give them one less thing to think about. As is always the case too, we welcome feedback from van drivers and operators about their use of Mercedes Pro Connect and any ideas of what they would like to see developed, so that we can continue to provide the most innovative solution for this hardworking community.”
