Global Self Drive operates more than 1,000 vehicles, most of which are Mercedes

The newest small van on the block is proving popular with a wide variety of customers, including van hire companies, according to several recent reports. Peterborough-based Global Self Drive recently purchased its first 25 Citans, and had placed them all on rental with major account customers within days.

The company has since purchased an additional 52 Citans to add to its predominantly Mercedes fleet, which is based at its head office in Peterborough, as well as other outlets in Cambridge, Colchester, Grantham and Ipswich and at a new corporate office at Stansted, which serves operators based in and around London.

Launched earlier this year, the Citan marks the entry of Mercedes-Benz into the small van market and leads the field in terms of fuel efficiency, achieving up to 65.7 mpg and producing CO₂ emissions as low as 112 g/km.

Global Self Drive’s Citans have all been Long-bodied 109 CDIs with 90 hp diesel engines, and Managing Director Darren Reeves says that the Citan represents an exciting new addition to the portfolio of products which his company offers for long-term contract and ‘spot’ hire.

“The Citan fills a gap in the Mercedes-Benz line-up and is a very welcome addition to the range,” he says. “It offers all of the attributes of quality, reliability and driver appeal that make Mercedes-Benz vehicles such a popular choice with our customers, but in a small and highly fuel-efficient package.

“Indeed,” he continues, “the Citan’s economy is its biggest advantage. Many of our vehicles cover big mileages and as it’s the customers who pay at the pumps, being able to offer them the most fuel-efficient vehicles is crucial to the success of our business. We’ve been greatly encouraged by some of the savings in diesel costs that customers are reporting.”

Global Self Drive maintains its fleet in-house but relies on Orwell Truck & Van and other members of the Mercedes-Benz dealer network for parts and warranty support, and for emergency back-up.