A Chatham-based electronic security systems specialist is running the first all-new Mercedes-Benz Citan van to be supplied by dealer Sparshatts of Kent.

Sabre Security & RF Systems has assigned its Long-bodied Citan 109 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY to senior engineer Billy Wells, who installs and services systems throughout the South-East.

So impressed has the company been with its new Mercedes-Benz that it has already ordered a second, identical model.

Launched in January, the Citan marks the German manufacturer’s entry into the small van market. Sabre managing director Richard Rodgers confirms: “It’s the van we’ve been waiting for from Mercedes-Benz.”

The 90 hp diesel engine that powers Sabre’s Citan is enhanced by the additional BlueEFFICIENCY package. This comprises a series of clever measures designed to further reduce consumption.

Features include the ECO start/stop function – which turns off the engine whenever the vehicle is stopped in traffic, then restarts it as soon as the driver depresses the clutch – low rolling resistance tyres and optimised alternator and battery management systems. As a result, this model boasts a fuel economy figure of up to 65.7mpg and CO2 emissions as low as 112 g/km.