| During 2007, Mellor held many discussions with end users, listening in particular to their aspirations for the type of vehicle they want in their fleet, the style, features and appearance; Mellor decided its next stage in product development should be to invest in the direction of the Mercedes Benz Vario.
Geoff Hudson commented "During 2007, we invested heavily in our Parice and Parice plus body development to suit the Mercedes Sprinter and VW Crafter chassis ranges. The project was extensive and the finished product both Bold and Radical. After initial fears as to market reaction, we found that what the customer actual wants is something with style, durability, and presence. Our new small coachbuilt range certainly fits that bill."
Following on from the small coachbuilt development programme, Mellor believe the next step has to be the Mercedes Vario. The vehicle is a long-standing product in the Mellor line up, but as such was in need of some 'TLC!' So the development team was formed and the plans for the new Mellor Vario coachbuilt body developed.
The first conclusion was that a more stylish 'Coach Type' front was required, so the Mellor aero front is now to become standard on all Vario products sold. The next issue was to improve the rear appearance to compliment the stylish front. A completely new mould was commissioned to create a stunning rear to the vehicle. Not only new style, but new doors all work to make this vehicle meet the exacting demands of the present day buyer.
Having created a beautiful front and rear, it seemed logical to review the bit in between, so a new composite panel is now standard on the range, offering a smoother finish, corrosion free whilst still maintaining the original brief for a modern looking vehicle.
Mellor continually introduces the latest electrical systems and the Vario benefits from the latest stage in this area. LED lighting is utilised wherever possible, offering maintenance free lighting in key areas of the vehicle.
Finally, the team moved to the inside of the vehicle where a complete suite of internal linings are being developed to finish the product off to the expectations of a demanding end user.
The finished product will make its first public appearance at the Commercial Vehicle show in April in Hall 9, stand 9-350; don't miss this fantastic opportunity to see the new Mellor Vario coachbuilt bodywork, the latest step by this privately owned company, working to meet the needs of its customers, not its shareholders. |
