Custom-built fleet solutions: How to keep your vehicles running, maximise uptime and drive efficiency

In the fast-paced logistics industry, ensuring reliability, efficiency, and minimal downtime is critical to success.

That is why logistics giant FedEx Singapore acquired a fleet of 31 Mercedes-Benz eVito Panel vans to replace its old diesel vans in 2024.

On the acquisition, the company’s managing director Eric Tan says: “It’s an initiative that supports the company’s global goal of achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2040.”

Such a move will ensure the company maintains its competitive edge in the market, he adds.

Working closely with Singapore’s largest automotive group Cycle & Carriage (C&C) Industries – the authorised dealer for Mercedes-Benz – FedEx successfully integrated the eVito vans into its delivery fleet.

“Beyond supporting our sustainability goals, the vans also offer significant operational advantages,” explains Tan.

“Custom-built for FedEx, one standout feature is the vehicle’s swinging rear doors, which open to a full 270 degrees, allowing for easier loading and unloading in tight spaces, especially in urban environments with limited manoeuvring room.”

With a wide variety of vehicular options such as the Arocs truck as well as eSprinter and eVito panel vans, C&C is confident of supporting businesses of any scale.

Watson Tan, C&C general manager, head of Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle (MBCV) operations, says: “Our wide range of vehicles is designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses and industries.

“From versatile vans to powerful heavy-duty trucks, our line-up allows businesses to optimally manage their total costs of ownership with the support of our comprehensive maintenance programme.”

Like FedEx Singapore, Meteorite Logistics Services (MLS) has also benefitted from C&C’s expertise and offerings.

The home-grown transportation company became the first owner of the eActros in South-east Asia in 2023.

Impressed by how the electric heavy truck looks, MLS’ managing director P Ravindran references the lead character in the Transformers movie, saying: “When people see it, they call it Optimus Prime.”

The eActros is more than just a truck; it is a symbol of change and innovation. MLS has long relied on internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks for their deliveries and C&C has played a pivotal role in making this transition seamless.

Reliable one-stop solution with stellar aftersales support

Since this was a significant acquisition for MLS, it scouted for options in the market. Its operations director K Uthaya Kumar says: “We did some comparisons with other European brands as well as Chinese brands, which were much cheaper.”

Ravindran adds: “But when we compared the eActros with other electric trucks, it’s worlds apart. The safety features in the truck are wonderful.”

The electric truck is equipped with advanced safety systems such as Active Brake Assist 5, which enhances emergency braking capabilities; and MirrorCam, providing all-round visibility that helps facilitate manoeuvring and cornering.

MLS’ operations hinge on minimal downtime and maximum reliability. With their ICE trucks, downtime due to servicing was a constant challenge. “Servicing takes a lot of time – at least half a day,” Kumar explains.

The eActros, however, has changed the game. It not only needs less frequent maintenance but is also more efficient. Supported by C&C’s certified technicians, MLS now enjoys services tailored to its specific needs.

C&C’s upgraded workshop at Pandan Gardens, equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and efficient service bays, ensures that maintenance is faster and more efficient, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.

“Their service is excellent and fast,” says Kumar. This level of responsiveness has allowed MLS to maintain uninterrupted operations, a critical factor in its industry.

For FedEx Singapore, C&C’s maintenance package has allowed the company to manage its fleet of vehicles effectively.

The logistics giant now enjoys on-time servicing schedules, swift response times for repairs and access to Mercedes-Benz Genuine Parts – something that FedEx’s Eric Tan gives his nod of approval for.

“This has contributed to both long-term savings and sustained performance,” he says.

Whether through the dedicated WhatsApp support group or priority service slots at the workshop, C&C ensures that help is always just a message away.

Compared to other European brands, Mercedes-Benz offers competitive total cost of ownership, thanks to extended general service intervals of 60,000km (compared to the industrial norm of 20,000km)  complemented by C&C’s transparent maintenance packages.

With Mercedes-Benz Genuine Parts, C&C guarantees longevity and reliability, ensuring that its clients get the most value out of their investment.

Cycle & Carriage: The partner for business success

From expert technicians and cutting-edge workshops to tailored maintenance plans, C&C provides a one-stop solution for commercial vehicle needs.

General manager Watson Tan explains that C&C sees itself as “a trusted business partner and solutions provider”.

He says: “We understand the challenges and pain points that our business partners face, from managing operational costs, to ensuring seamless and smooth running of their operations.

“We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our clients, delivering reliability and trust. This allows our business partners to focus on growing their business with confidence.”

By delivering reliability, cost-efficiency and peace of mind, C&C enables businesses to focus on what truly matters – their growth and success.