Mercedes-Benz’s new Euro 5 Vito will make its British debut during the last quarter of this year, but only in modest numbers. “Initially we’ll have fewer than 400,” says the manufacturer’s UK van sales and marketing director, Steve Bridge.The big push will come in the first quarter of 2011 and the newcomer looks set to be one of the star attractions on the manufacturer’s stand at next April’s British Commercial Vehicle Show at the National Exhibition Centre.
Not that the new Vito will look radically different from the current model. The key changes will be under the metal, says Bridge, and will affect the engine, the gearbox and the suspension.
Low-CO2 BlueEfficiency versions of the newcomer will be readily available. “We’ll be putting as many economically-viable fuel-saving measures on them as we possibly can,” he says.
Also on offer will be an electric Vito, set to appear on this side of the Channel either later this year or in early 2011. “We’ve asked the factory for an initial 10 and we’ll be placing them with key fleets that can make full use of them,” says Bridge. What about the price? “If you said £50,000 including the batteries then you wouldn’t be far wrong,” he replies.
