A decision to purchase three new long-bodied Mercedes-Benz Citan 109 CDI models is paying off for MK London Link founder Alan Savage, whose drivers are now using less fuel on their local collection rounds in the Citans than in their previous non-Mercedes small vans.

The firm also added three new Sprinter 313 CDI Longs to its fleet at the same time, one of which is on multi-drop duties and sent daily into London, while the other two make nationwide collections and deliveries.

The Milton Keynes-based firm is no stranger to the three-pointed star. Many of the liveried vans operated by its sub-contractors on long distance work are also Mercedes-Benz Sprinters.

Commenting on his choice of new vans, Mr Savage said:

“Having previously relied on another make of vehicle at this size, we ordered the Citans after Dawsonrentals predicted they’d consume less fuel. I’m happy to confirm that these smart little vans are living up to that promise. As anyone who’s been to Milton Keynes will know, the city has a great many roundabouts so it’s demanding work, yet the Citans are proving very economical.”

Launched in 2013, the Mercedes-Benz Citan achieves up to 65.7 mpg, with CO₂ emissions as low as 112 g/km. MK London Link’s new vans are powered by 90 hp versions of an advanced diesel engine which is also available with 75 hp and 110 hp outputs.

As I’ve commented a number of times, the new small vans are gaining a firm following, especially among SMEs such as MK London Link.