Author:
RALPH MORTON
This – left – was the first time UK fleet and business car managers had the chance to view the all-new Mercedes A-Class.
Caused a stir? You bet.
The car was unveiled by Nick Andrews, the head of fleet at Mercedes, during a presentation at the ACFO conference and AGM (held at Mercedes-Benz World yesterday – May 23). ACFO, by the way, is the premier organisation for fleet managers.
“Mercedes wants to be a a lot closer to the fleet and business sales market,” explained Nick.
“Our strategy in the UK from a fleet and business perspective is to become number one in the premium fleet sector both for sales and service.
“Are we there yet? No we’re not. But this is how important we think the fleet and business market is – we’ve persuaded Mercedes in Stuttgart to allow us to show the A-Class for the first time in the UK here today.” There’s more detail on the new A-Class later in this story.
Andrews went on to explain that there were four core fleet and business models in the Mercedes-Benz range. The key news points are:
Mercedes B-Class
“The first of our product revolution,” says Nick. Prices start from £21,295 and company car benefit in kind tax from 17%.
Mercedes C-Class 2012 MY
New lines from the summer with additional equipment and better value
- SE becomes Executive SE
- Elegance becomes AMG Sport
- Sport becomes AMG Sport Plus
For more on this story, read Mercedes updates C-Class with AMG sporting appeal.
Mercedes C-Class Coupe
Again new lines – AMG Sport and AMG Sport Plus – being introduced with improved equipment specification.
Mercedes E-Class
Introduction of the new e300 blueTEC Hybrid – the first premium diesel hybrid. Some of the figures are astonishing: there are CO2 emissions of just 109g/km – which will give the e300 a company car tax banding of just 12% – and fuel economy over 65mpg!
The car will be available as both a saloon and estate. “There’s no luggage disadvantage with the hybrid technology, either,” added Nick.
Mercedes A-Class
The compact A-Class made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show earlier in 2012. “It really gives Mercedes-Benz the complete range to offer to fleet and business sales,” commented Nick. Features include an AMG Sport version , new diesel engines, and the promise to be the most advanced with telematics. Emissions from 99g/km.
Andrews rounded off his presentation, saying: “We have one of the strongest product lines for the fleet and business car sectors. We see Mercedes-Benz as a true fleet manufacturer for all those involved in company car management.”
Also read this
For more on the A-Class, click here: New Mercedes A-Class wants some sporting action.
