Truckforce, tyre manufacturer Goodyear Dunlop’s dedicated mobile service and breakdown division, has replaced the first Mercedes-Benz Sprinters it bought five years ago with 57 new models.

The operator began using Mercedes-Benz vehicles in 2011. It has since invested in a further 60 Sprinters and, with the arrivals of its latest, now runs a fleet of 165.

Based at 15 operating centres which act as hubs for a network of satellite locations across England and Wales, the vans are allocated to technicians who repair, replace and service customers’ tyres at their premises or at the roadside.

Bob Mason, business manager at Truckforce, said: “Sprinters perform well and are popular with our drivers, as well as being extremely reliable and hard-wearing.

"They stand up very well to demanding work over a five-year life.

“Equally important though is the quality of support we receive from the Mercedes-Benz Network. Its dealers are proper commercial vehicle specialists, and many of their sites are open 24/7.

“This means our mobile tyre technicians can drop their vans off at the end of the working day, have them maintained overnight, and pick them up ready to start work again in the morning. This service works very well for our business.”

Like their predecessors, Truckforce’s new Sprinters were delivered by Birmingham Dealer Midlands Truck & Van.

All are fuel-efficient 313 CDI models and are kitted out with engine-driven PTOs which power on-board compressors, Hope Safe-T-Bar rear bumpers and roof-mounted beacons, and carry a full complement of tools and equipment.