Mercedes-Benz Metris stretch limousine from Springfield Coach
Springfield, Mo.—Veteran builder Springfield Coach Group has introduced a new Mercedes-Benz V-Class stretch limousine into the chauffeured ground transportation market. Built using the popular V-series passenger van, Vice President of Marketing Gary Spaniak 3 says that the new limo was created to fill a need in the space for a vehicle that offers luxury for eight to 12 passengers can be customized, but is also easy to maneuver in tight city streets.
“We really feel that we needed a new kind of limousine for the marketplace,” says Spaniak. “SUVs are expensive and hard to maneuver in the major city areas. With the Sprinter doing so well, we decided to take their Mercedes Metris passenger van do an 80-inch stretch. Operators get the same interior space as popular 120-inch stretch crossover vehicles, but overall it’s 20 inches shorter.”
Springfield’s new limousine is currently offered in three different configurations: a 10-passenger limousine/airport shuttle that offers more luggage room than SUVs; a CEO class, which includes four Premier Products captain’s chairs with leg lifts and heat/massage, four fold-out desks, and two 24-inch monitors; and a party-type limo that seats 12 with no luggage. The V-Class limousine is equipped with a full power-sliding door, with a 40-inch opening, which, Spaniak says, contributes to an improved passenger experience.
Interior of the CEO class V-Class stretch limousine
“The 40-inch door eliminates the need for that fifth door. With the vehicle sitting lower to the ground, it’s great for the elderly, since you can get in and out without crawling on your hands and knees. Also the Metris is wider and has more headroom than most crossover stretches. It’s a real comfort ride—for the same money as a luxury SUV, you give your customers better experience, a better ride, better fuel economy, and give them the elegance that the Mercedes name.
Spaniak says that Springfield worked hand in hand with Mercedes Benz to ensure that all specifications are up to the manufacturer’s high standards. He adds that the V-Class’ seven-speed transmission and rear-wheel drive give the limo better drivability and “peppiness,” even when it’s filled with passengers. He also looks forward to demonstrating the vehicle at the Chauffeur Driven Show in Boston.
“Once operators experience this limo, it’s a no brainer. It’s technically smaller in size than standard crossover limos, but yet bigger on the inside. We want people to understand that doing the same thing over and over is the definition of insanity. With this limousine, we’re trying innovate and create something that gives operators the best bang for their buck.”
Visit limoland.com for more information.
[CD0819] - Updated 09/05/19