Airport cabbie Paul is flying high with Ciceley’s first Mercedes-Benz Vito Taxi

Paul’s Compact-bodied 114 CDI has an optional seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic gearbox, which transmits the engine’s 114 hp output through the rear wheels. The National Vito Taxi is also available in front wheel-drive form, as the 109 CDI with 88 hp powerplant.

Standard equipment includes fuel-saving BlueEFFICIENCY measures, air-conditioning for driver and passengers, electric folding mirrors and electrically-operated sliding doors on both sides. All Vito Taxis also come with an electric near-side step but as an upgraded Taxi Plus model Paul’s vehicle is fitted with electric steps on both sides, along with the Active Parking Assist system.

Paul has been a professional driver for 14 years, and at one point Kamcabs was running three vehicles. He had purchased 13 traditional black cabs before he bought his first Vito, a Euro 5 model which had undergone conversion by a third-party specialist, in 2011. Kamcabs continues to run this vehicle alongside the first official Mercedes-Benz Vito Taxi to be sold in the north-west.

“The Vito is preferred by every cabbie I know in Manchester,” confirmed Paul. “It has the quality feel you associate with the three-pointed star badge, and is much more comfortable to drive than its main competitor, while there’s plenty of space for up to six passengers and their luggage.

Like all Mercedes-Benz vans, the Vito Taxi is covered by a three-year, unlimited mileage manufacturer’s warranty and free MobiloVan roadside assistance. “I’ve only had to call them out once previously,” recalled Paul. “We were just back from holiday, and my first Vito had a flat battery.

“Despite the fact that it was midnight, the Mercedes-Benz technician was out to me very quickly. I’d parked the vehicle against a wall, which meant it was difficult to gain access. But he knew how to get round this – knowledge that a non-specialist from one of the major breakdown organisations would probably not have had – and started the vehicle in no time.

“I need my taxi to earn a living,” said Paul. “Fast, reliable, round-the-clock back-up like this is also, therefore, an important element of the Vito package for me.”

He added: “I’ve been very impressed with the service from Ciceley Commercials. The Dealer’s Sales Executive Michael Holmes and his Manager Jonathan Ramsay were both very attentive and helpful when it came to securing my licence for this new vehicle from Manchester City Council.”

Jonathan commented: “We’re very excited to have been awarded our new Mercedes-Benz Vito Taxi franchise, and look forward to putting many more cabbies operating in Manchester and beyond behind the wheel of one of these fantastic vehicles.”