Parcelforce takes delivery of Mercedes-Benz Eco-Start Sprinters

1,106 Mercedes- Benz Sprinter 311CDI vans have joined Parcelforce’s major fleet of vehicles. The German LGV was chosen after detailed and competitive trials at the Millbrook proving ground. Company drivers were testing different vans for their performance as well as for comfort and ease of use. Each driver was asked to provide detailed feedback for each van.

Parcelforce Worldwide is a leading provider of express parcel and package delivery, which covers all 27 million addresses in the UK as well as the capability and guarantee to deliver to 99.6% of the world population.

Parcelforce Worldwide handles a vehicle fully laden with parcels into its collection and re-distribution centre roughly every 45 seconds. Their fleet is enormous and constantly being expanded to provide a better service to customers.

The newest additions, these Mercedes-Benz Eco-Start Sprinters, have an Eco-Start system which automatically stops and re-starts the engine during halts in slow-moving congested traffic. This will have played a major part in the firm’s decision as Parcelforce have a strong environmental policy and are aiming to cut fuel consumption by 5% this year.

Simon Arnott, Parcelforce’s Senior Procurement Manager, says that the Sprinter scored particularly well in cab and ride comfort, driving position, driver’s seat, cornering, handling and driving performance.