Marinus Venter, Head of Product and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Vans SA, announces, “To deepen our commitment to the local taxi industry and in support of the South African economy, our 23-seater Sprinter Inkanyezi vehicles are now being converted locally at our East London conversion facility. This means that taxi owners will be able to immediately operate and earn income from the purchased vehicle instead of waiting for a conversion.”

He emphasises, “the safety of drivers and passengers is paramount. Thanks to the latest safety developments, we have applied best-in-class features, such as the robust seat anchorage system which conforms to the highest standards. Adaptive brake lights are also standard on the Inkanyezi. In an emergency, the normal brake light turns into a flashing brake light, which is proven to be more visible to other motorists than a conventional brake light,” says Venter.

Optional extras to bolster safety include Active Brake Assist, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Parking Assist and Lane Keeping Assist. Blind Spot Assist with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a reversing camera with display in the interior rear-view mirror, ensures that the Inkanyezi is safe at all speeds and in all conditions. The optional parking package, with 360° camera, makes light work of tight parking spots, such as taxi ranks and other loading and off-loading areas.

The list of added advantages includes conversion parts covered by the manufacturer’s 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a more durable conversion. To make owning and operating an Inkanyezi as seamless as possible, the van’s optional extras, such as parcel shelves, USB ports and tow bar are plug-and-play and can be quickly fitted at dealers nationwide.

Functional while being comfortable

The Inkanyezi’s high quality vinyl seats are not only durable and easy to clean, but are comfortable for drivers and passengers. The front cabin features a functional workspace for the driver and offers a relaxed environment for the front passenger too.

The optional multifunction steering wheel means the driver can conveniently operate the on-board computer. Various vehicle functions such as the state-of-the-art MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen enhance the driver’s and passengers’ journey and includes route guidance.

Getting in and out of the vehicle requires little effort, as the Inkanyezi is fitted with a side step as standard. A hard-wearing Marley floor provides an anti-slip surface and protects the van’s floors.


Perfectly balanced: powerful yet economical

The rear-wheel drive Inkanyezi 516 CDI is powered by a 2 litre, 4-cylinder diesel engine that delivers on its promise of power and economy, a combination that directly impacts profitability in the taxi industry. This trusted vehicle offers 120kW with peak torque of 330Nm, available between 1200 and 2200rpm.

An ultra-light fibre glass, easy-to-clean dome roof liner reduces the vehicle’s weight, adding to excellent fuel consumption figures; it maximises space and offers an even more comfortable area for passengers.


Low Total Cost of Ownership

Use of the Inkanyezi in the taxi industry results in a high utilisation rate. The vehicle’s efficiency offers a key success factor in this tough and competitive sector. Some of the most important aspects in the total operating costs of a taxi are the purchase price, fuel, maintenance and repair costs. Venter notes that the Inkanyezi meets stringent criteria in all these areas to ensure profitability for taxi operators.

Pricing

Pricing for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Inkanyezi 516 CDI starts at a recommended R945.000,00 including VAT.

The Inkanyezi’s service intervals are every 20 000 km, and the warranty is a comprehensive 2-year/unlimited kilometre offering.

Offers on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Inkanyezi 516 CDI are available from Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, a registered financial services provider.

For more information on the Mercedes-Benz Inkanyezi, visit www.mercedes-benz.co.za/vans.