Mercedes-Benz rolls out a turn-key upfit program for the Sprinter and Metris commercial vans called MasterSolutions. Mercedes is working with three top van upfit solution providers: Auto Truck Group, Knapheide, and Smartliner.
Business customers can now configure and order a van with the appropriate upfit via www.mbvans.com, www.freightlinersprinterusa.com or by visiting a local Mercedes-Benz Vans or Freightliner Sprinter Vans dealership. The selection of upfits and customizations spans many vocations: plumbing, electrical, construction, utilities, delivery, emergency services, and more. The upfit can be as simple as ladder rack on the roof and shelfs, or as complicated as an emergency vehicle outfit with lights and sirens.
Auto Truck Group upfit provider has invested into a new facility near the Daimler Vans Assembly Plant in Ladson, SC. This is a way to streamline the van modification process and control costs, which Mercedes says are competitive. Once the upfitter completes the modifications, the van can be delivered to the dealership near the customer, or directly to customer’s fleet management facility.
The commercial van market is becoming ever more competitive. RamTrucks has recently shown an augmented reality application to help customers visualize different van upfits for the Ram ProMaster. GM is upgrading its Chevy Express and GMC Savana van lineup with the 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine. Ford is still leading the commercial van market in the United States with one of the most diverse van configuration offerings.
