Electrical construction services company Voltcom Group has purchased 10 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 313 CDIs with medium-length bodies from Sussex and Surrey Dealer Rossetts Commercials.

Bodybuilder Cardiff Truck and Bus has converted the Sprinters for use as ‘welfare vans’.

Electrical engineers working on power lines in some of the country’s most remote areas are being provided with the specially-adapted vans.

John Nash, group director at Voltcom, said: “We chose the Sprinter because of its unrivalled reputation for reliability, durability and competitive running costs, and because it is an ideal base chassis for our conversion.

“These vehicles are used on site by operatives who often find themselves working in very inhospitable areas far away from any recognised amenities. The welfare van gives them a base for breaks, as well as serving as a meeting point for staff working in different areas.”

In addition to the three front seats, each Sprinter is fitted with a further five seats and a table in the rear. Also included is a galley with a sink with hot and cold taps, a microwave oven and a hot drinks dispenser, plus a separate compartment at the rear incorporating a second sink unit, a drying area for wet clothes and an electric flush toilet.

“These vehicles are a vital support mechanism for operatives working in the field,” added Nash. “They really appreciate having somewhere warm and comfortable to clean up, relax for a while and have something to eat and drink before going back out to work.”

The Sprinters have Chapter 8 high-visibility chevrons and comply to health and safety regulations, making them suited to highways maintenance applications.

Voltcom is now offering welfare vans to third-party customers through its Voltcom Fleet Solutions vehicle rental division.