In addition to testing the latest vans from Mercedes-Benz, guests could explore some of the activities taking place in the 11.000 m³ Experience Pavilion, such as ridng a smart e-bike or taking a tour of the 58-vehicle bodybuilder demonstration area.
Making its UK debut at the Experience, just weeks after its international unveil, was the new Sprinter, which could be seen in both van and chassis cab formats. New environmental and safety features include Euro 6 engines, Crosswind Assist, Collision Prevention Assist and Blindspot Assist; with High-beam Assist and Lane Keeping Assist available as options – all firsts in a van.
The new Citan was also available to drive for the first time, and joined the Vito and Sprinter on the wet-grip skid pan area, the ESP lane change test and the two mile MPG marathon circuit.
The Vito, a firm favourite and Van Experience veteran, was available to test on the circular skid pan and in-line wet grip test areas – designed to really push the limits of the Adaptive ESP system.
Another popular attraction was the off-road course. Visitors were tasked with driving a selection of factory built Sprinter 4×4’s and the Sprinter 6×6 all-wheel drive by Oberaigner over a challenging off-road course.
Steve Bridge, sales & marketing director for Mercedes-Benz LCVs, commented: ‘Van Experience, now in its 10th year, continues to deliver business benefits to both us and our customers and over the fortnight we see a mix of people from a wide variety of business sectors. It’s always great to see our long-term customers and welcome new customers too.
‘With 1,800 customers attending, that’s an average of 200 a day, we’ve been busy! Our sign-on data shows us that for 80% of guests it’s their first Van Experience visit and with this comes the opportunity to have lots of interesting conversations with new faces.’