Meridian Debuts Caleche Glass Top Sprinters to North America

Las Vegas — Meridian Specialty Vehicles, a Mercedes-Benz Preferred Upfitter and bus manufacturer, and Caleche B.V of The Netherlands recently announced and exclusive distribution agreement of Caleche's retractable glass-top convertible roof system designed specifically for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

The roof system, which replaces the factory upper walls and roof, converts a bus into a mobile panoramic touring machine like no other. The glass roof system replaces the factory structure, opens and retracts with the touch of a button, and incorporates several safety features to prevent injury or damage to the system.

Tour companies, amusement parks, attraction operators, and even hotels throughout Europe have been clamoring for the product. "As perfectionists, we didn't want to expand our footprint into the North American market until we felt the product was absolutely perfected for the rigors of the market,” says Robin Verachtert, Caleche's sales manager. "We're thrilled to have matured the product and have undergone extensive third-party testing over the last five years to the point where we have absolutely no doubts it will perform perfectly—from Glacier National Park to Las Vegas."

The patented glass top convertible roof system will be installed by Meridian from knock-down kits shipped from The Netherlands and available in North America on the 144" wheelbase 2500 model Sprinter and the 170" extended wheelbase 3500 model Sprinter in 8 to 20 passenger configurations and with multiple entry door options. Heavy-duty air conditioning systems, auxiliary heating systems, and a unique inflatable air seal system ensure passengers will stay dry and comfortable year-round and in any climate.

"We have been discussing opportunities with Caleche for the last four years and watching the product mature. We're thrilled to have been selected to represent the product in Canada, United States, and Mexico,” says David Ronsen, president and CEO of Meridian. "The experience of riding in a Sprinter fitted with the glass top (open or closed) is indescribable ... it is truly exhilarating. The glass top system literally creates new markets in the tour and other transportation industries that simply were not in reach before now. Nationwide, tour companies will now have a platform from which they can distinguish themselves from their competition and provide a one-of-a-kind, simply awesome touring experience for the masses or for their most exclusive clientele and in any climate, season, or weather condition."

The first North American glass top Sprinters have already completed all necessary safety testing and will be available for sale in coming months through Meridian's bus dealer network.

Visit meridiansv.com for more information.

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