Sandown News 06 2022

News News from Sandown Mercedes-Benz

Sandown named Number 1 by Mercedes-Benz Outstanding performance recognised by manufacturer

SUMMER 2022

Introduction Hello and a very warm welcome to this edition of Sandown News. Much has happened in the past two years since our previous issue so it’s our pleasure to bring you up-to-date with developments at Sandown as well as information on our latest Mercedes-Benz products and services.

I’m delighted to report that Sandown received tremendous recognition from Mercedes-Benz when we were awarded Mercedes-Benz Cars UK Retailer of the Year for both 2020 and 2021.

We were also commended in the New Car Sales and Customer Services categories.

Each and every member of the Sandown team has made an important contribution to this success and we are all very proud of and motivated by this recognition from Mercedes-Benz. These awards are a result of our team’s hard work and dedication as well as an unstinting commitment to delivering unrivalled customer care, and meeting the very highest standards of Mercedes-Benz.

As you will see inside this newsletter, Sandown now operates across ten locations after adding a trio of new sites to our portfolio following the acquisition of the Mercedes-Benz Retailers in Newbury and Epsom, and the opening of our first Mercedes-Benz van aftersales centre in Poole. This expansion demonstrates our commitment to Mercedes-Benz and our ambitions for growth, and we are proud to serve our existing and prospective Mercedes-Benz customers from these new locations.

With the changing automotive landscape and a dynamic marketplace, Mercedes-Benz continues to invest in new technologies and lead the global luxury sector in an era of CO2-neutral mobility. With this in mind, we provide an overview of our exciting and class-leading range of Mercedes-EQ electric vehicles that are now available.

Helping you to get the most from your Mercedes-Benz or smart ownership, you can also read about some of the initiatives being offered by our expert Aftersales teams. These range from our peace-of-mind seasonal Summer Check to affordable ServiceCare plans as well as the Sandown Platinum Programme that offers discounts to our loyal owners of older models.

Whether you’re thinking of changing your car for a brand new or Approved Used model or require our assistance with any aspect of servicing, maintenance or repair, we’re always ready to take care of you.

Thank you for your loyal support of our business over the past two years; we are all very grateful. I do hope that you enjoy this newsletter and I look forward to our being of service to you soon.

Best wishes,

Gavin

Gavin McAllister Managing Director, Sandown

Follow us Sandown Mercedes-Benz/ Sandown smart @SandownMercedes/ @sandownsmart

Sandown Group

Sandown Group UK

@sandownmercedesbenz @sandownbrabus

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Retailer of the Year

Pictured at the presentation of Sandown’s Mercedes-Benz Retailer of the Year award are (left to right): Rachael Thompson; Sales Director, Mercedes-Benz Cars UK; event host Dermot O’Leary; Keith Jackman, Head of Marketing & CRM, Sandown; Mark Hannon, Head of Sales - Performance & Used Cars, Sandown; Gavin McAllister, Managing Director, Sandown; Stuart Head, Head of Sales - Operations & Business, Sandown; James Webb, Head of Sales Strategy & New Cars, Sandown and Gary Savage, Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz Cars UK.

Sandown named Mercedes-Benz Retailer of the Year Sandown Group has celebrated an exciting year of expansion by being crowned Mercedes-Benz Retailer of the Year for 2020 and 2021.

The Company was chosen as the best Mercedes-Benz retail group in the UK for its outstanding performance in every area of the business and was also praised for its achievements in customer services and new car sales.

Gary Savage, Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz Cars UK, said: “Sandown has a strong and committed management team with a customercentric approach to delivering excellent service.

“Our retail partners are a vital part of our success in the UK and as the industry continues to experience real change, I’m delighted that they are embracing the challenges and continuing to offer our customers an exceptional experience.”

It’s not the first time that Sandown has been recognised by the manufacturer as they won Aftersales Team of the Year in 2019, New Car Sales Team of the Year in 2018 and Best Customer Service

Team in 2016. Commenting on the latest award, Gavin McAllister, Managing Director of Sandown, said receiving the prestigious manufacturer honour was an “extraordinary moment” for the Company and his colleagues following a year in which the business had grown with the acquisition of Mercedes-Benz Retailers in Newbury and Epsom as well as the opening of a new van aftersales centre in Poole.

“Sandown’s recognition by our partners at Mercedes-Benz Cars UK as Retailer of the Year is testimony to the hard work and dedication of each member of the Sandown team,” continued Gavin.

“I truly believe that it’s the accumulation of our combined and consistent efforts each day that has delivered the performance and unlocked this success, and I am deeply grateful for the care, commitment, passion and focus of my colleagues across the business.”

He added: “As a business that is completely dedicated to the Mercedes-Benz brand, this award means a great deal to all of us on the team.”

Sandown News 3

New C-Class New C-Class raises the bar

“The letters C and S sit at opposite ends of the alphabet.

However, in our portfolio they’re now moving closer together.”

Those were the words of Ola Källenius, CEO of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, as he enthused about the new C-Class and how he anticipated it would excite even more customers with its wide range of high-tech features derived from the range’s flagship.

And the latest versions of the most successful Mercedes-Benz range are already creating quite a stir in Sandown showrooms.

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Dynamically sporty styling and elegantly luxurious interiors are complemented by the secondgeneration of Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) technology and comprehensive electrification, which raise the bar to make the C-Class the most sophisticated offering in its segment.

Each of the quartet of C-Class model lines – Sport; AMG Line; AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Premium Plus – feature MBUX’s ‘Hey Mercedes’ virtual voice assistant. Its ingenious Smart Home function enables

household items such as temperature and lights, shutters and electrical appliances to be remotely monitored and controlled from the car. Motion detectors and window contacts will even inform the user of welcome or unwelcome visitors within the residence.

Opening up an even more efficient and digital world to C-Class owners, the new Saloon and Estate line-up is electrified throughout with plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid options. At around 100 kilometres, the electric range afforded is twice that of its predecessor with an additional electric output of 95kW to boot and a battery which can be charged to 100 per cent capacity in 30 minutes.

For further information on the new C-Class range or to arrange a test drive, please contact the sales team at your nearest Sandown Retailer.

New cars Thinking about your next car?

Some forward-thinking could be very advantageous when it comes to planning for your next Mercedes-Benz.

Ongoing component shortages and in particular those relating to semi-conductor chips, which are essential in the production of new vehicles, continue to impact on the delivery times of selected models. For customers accustomed to choosing their next car from stock, this means that we might not be able to fulfil immediate orders as we have been able to in the past.

By thinking ahead and ordering sooner than you normally would, you can still secure the car you want and avoid any potential delays.

If you would like to discuss your requirements,

please contact the sales team at your local Sandown Retailer. They would be delighted to arrange an appointment to talk through your options including the finance solutions available on your existing vehicle whilst you wait for your next one and, if you’re interested in partexchanging, providing a valuation on what your current car is now worth.

Sandown at the British Motor Show Sandown will be flying the flag for Mercedes-Benz on home turf at this year’s British Motor Show.

As the local Retailer to the Show venue at Farnborough International Expo Centre, Sandown will be representing the manufacturer and showcasing a stunning array of cars at the event, which is expected to attract at least 80,000 visitors.

Celebrating all things motoring past, present and future, the Show will feature displays, test drives, experiences and The Live Arena where vehicles will be paraded and put through their paces. It takes place between 18th and 21st August so, if you’re attending, please visit our team on the Sandown stand.

Sandown News 5

Servicing

You’ll value a service plan With so much uncertainty over household bills at present, it’s reassuring that you can enjoy peace-of-mind when it comes to the cost of servicing your car with Sandown.

By taking out a ServiceCare plan, you can sit back and relax safe in the knowledge that all of your vehicle’s maintenance costs are taken care of for a period of your choosing and without the worry of any future price rises. Indeed the plans guarantee the price of recommended items, parts and labour for up to four services so you are protected against inflation.

What’s more, you can better manage your

servicing expenditure with full flexibility over your finance as you can choose to spread the cost like your other regular bills or pay upfront. Whichever payment option you prefer, you will also have the satisfaction that your car will be looked after by the people who know it best – namely our manufacturer-trained technicians using genuine Mercedes-Benz parts.

ServiceCare plans are available on all Mercedes-Benz models – both new and used and Mercedes-AMG versions. New car price examples* include £30 per month for A-Class, £22 pcm for EQA and just £16 pcm for smart EQ.

*Price examples based on 4 services over 4 years. 15,500 miles per annum. Models less than 12 months old, no service taken. T&Cs apply.

Prices correct at time of going to press (05/22).

Three cheers for three tiers The Sandown Platinum Programme features a trio of tiers that provide differing loyalty discounts to owners of older vehicles according to the age of their vehicle. Contact one of our service teams to find out more.

Tier 1

Tier 2

Tier 2

• 3, 4 and 5-year-old vehicles

• 6, 7 and 8-year-old vehicles

• 9+year-old vehicles

• 20% labour discount

• 40% labour discount

• 40% labour discount

• 10% stocked parts discount on workshop repairs and servicing

• 10% stocked parts discount on workshop repairs and servicing

• 15% stocked parts discount on workshop repairs and servicing

• £30 MOT

• £20 MOT

20%

LABOUR DISCOUNT

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£30 MOT

£20 MOT

Mercedes-Benz of Epsom Epsom expands portfolio It was a happy new year for Sandown when it took over ownership of Mercedes-Benz of Epsom from Mercedes-Benz Retail Group on 1st January 2022.

A flagship site within the national Mercedes-Benz Retailer network, Epsom’s facilities are amongst the most contemporary in the country and feature a 15-car showroom, 65-vehicle Approved Used display and 20-bay workshop.

With an already well-established territory across the south of England, this latest strategic acquisition expands Sandown’s representation into the M25 and South West London and increases its portfolio to ten locations. With all of Mercedes-Benz of Epsom’s 87-strong workforce being retained, it takes the Company’s headcount beyond 500 employees.

Since taking up ownership, Sandown has already undertaken some cosmetic improvements including the installation of new signage and even a state-of-the-art coffee machine.

“This acquisition represents a significant growth opportunity for Sandown and enables us to leverage further the scale of our existing Mercedes-Benz presence in the south of England,” explained Gavin McAllister, Sandown’s Managing Director.

“As a private, Mercedes-Benz-focused retailer, we are absolutely dedicated to providing professional representation for the Mercedes-Benz brand, benchmark customer service and an exciting career environment at Mercedes-Benz of Epsom. We have been thoroughly delighted to welcome the Mercedes-Benz of Epsom team and its customers to the Sandown family.”

Sandown News 7

Mercedes-Benz of Newbury

Sandown strengthens to the north Sandown strengthened its retail operations and extended its network northwards into Berkshire with last year’s acquisition of Mercedes-Benz of Newbury from Sytner Group.

Managing Director Gavin McAllister said that he was honoured to welcome the Retailer and its staff into the Sandown fold – describing the acquisition as a “special moment”.

“In terms of its location and proximity to our other Retailers, Newbury has proved to be a perfect fit that enables us to reach into West Berkshire and is an important step in our ongoing growth,” he said.

Mercedes-Benz of Newbury boasts a seven-car showroom and a 40-car Approved Used display.

Behind the scenes, a state-of-the-art eight-bay workshop is fully-equipped to undertake every aspect of Mercedes-Benz and smart servicing and repairs and there is the very latest MOT facility too.

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Sandown has installed a brand new lighting system to showcase the latest models to stunning effect whilst reducing the site’s carbon footprint. A dedicated smart repair operation has also been introduced to undertake cosmetic repairs.

Overseeing a 38-strong team, the Retailer’s General Manager, Ian Holyoak, said: “As a business, we are completely dedicated to delivering excellence and are passionate about providing the very highest levels of service. We want to provide customers with a one-stop shop for all their vehicle needs and an experience that is genuinely second-to-none.”

Trustpilot

Trust in Sandown Sandown’s aim has always been to deliver the very highest standards of customer service and it is now going public to demonstrate and reinforce that commitment.

The Company joined Trustpilot, the world’s leading online customer review platform, in 2020. Since then, almost 1,700 testimonials have been logged on the site by customers rating the service that they have received when buying cars or vans or having an existing vehicle serviced at one of Sandown’s ten Retailers.

The comments received have resulted in Sandown being ranked as the top Mercedes-Benz retailer with an ‘excellent’ 4.7 out of five Trustscore being achieved.

“As a business, we want to provide the best

service that we can,” said Keith Jackman, Head of Marketing & CRM. “Trustpilot offers a transparent, public platform to praise and air honest views so an open, honest and impartial picture of how our service is perceived which is a very powerful tool for building trust and confidence, demonstrating how we care and listen to our customers as well as improving the way we look after them.”

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Mercedes-Benz Van Centre Poole New site is van-tastic Sandown has scaled up its association with Mercedes-Benz by being appointed Mercedes-Benz Van Authorised Repairer for Poole and the surrounding area.

Mercedes-Benz Van Centre Poole began trading last September with a brand new 13-strong team from a 12,000 square foot facility on Tower Park, where servicing, maintenance, MOTs and repairs are now being undertaken. It is serving an area that extends northwards from Poole to Amesbury and across from Yeovil in the west to Southampton.

Facilities include a state-ofthe-art, six-ramp workshop with dedicated MOT test lane and geometry bay plus the potential for two further ramps to be added as well as a contemporary reception area complete with wi-fi access, plasma screens and refreshments.

As a Mercedes-Benz Electric Van (EV) Centre, the site is fully prepared for the future and boasts an infrastructure that will

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meet the demand for zero emissions motoring in the years to come. With eVito and eSprinter already on sale and the smaller eCitan expected to arrive in 2022, four AC charging stations have been installed with pre-wiring in place for three more including a rapid DC point.

With while-you-wait servicing, collection and delivery plus courtesy vans available, Tony Smith, Van Centre After Sales Manager, said the new operation and its convenience offering had been well-received.

“Customers and fleet operators are very impressed with the facility as well as the

service that we’re able to provide and business is building all the time – we already have most of the local supermarkets onboard for servicing and repairs as well as a growing number of local companies,” he explained.

“In addition to our support for local owner-operators and large fleets, we’re also kept busy by the rapid response service we run for the manufacturer’s roadside assistance programme, Service24h, which requires us to attend Mercedes-Benz van drivers should they encounter issues with their vehicle whilst travelling in this region.”

Servicing

Why Sandown for servicing?

With a Sandown Mercedes-Benz service, you get the following benefits:

12 months’ roadside assistance with every Mercedes-Benz service

• Fixed price servicing and repairs – no hidden costs • Mercedes-Benz up-to-date trained technicians • We use only genuine manufacturer parts (which carry a two-year, unlimited mileage warranty) • Mercedes-Benz courtesy cars • Collection and delivery service • A full complimentary 40-point vehicle health check at every visit • Courtesy wash and vacuum • Service measure updates such as software upgrades At Sandown, we offer discounts for older vehicles and will price match independent retailers when following a Mercedes-Benz service schedule.

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Mercedes-Benz electric drive Electrifying Whether you’re a private motorist, company car driver or fleet manager, there’s never been a better time to make the switch to Mercedes-Benz electric driving with a great choice of models available and even more on the way.

Last year, a record 227,458 Mercedes-Benz plug-in hybrid and electric cars were sold worldwide of which almost 50,000 were Mercedes-EQ battery electric vehicles – a 154.8 per cent increase on 2020.

Undoubtedly it’s a trend that is going to continue, especially with the manufacturer’s commitment to a faster transition to a full electric range as announced at last year’s COP26 UN Climate Change Conference.

The company aims to at least halve CO2 emissions per passenger car over the lifecycle by the end of this decade compared to 2020 levels. Electrification of its model line-up will be key to this objective and Mercedes-Benz is now striving to go all-electric by 2030 wherever market conditions allow.

There are already 14 hybrid options across the Mercedes-Benz model range together with six all-electric choices: EQA, EQB, EQC, EQE, EQS and EQV. More are on the horizon, including the EQS SUV which arrives in Sandown showrooms later this year to offer electric motoring and off-road driving capability in supreme seven-seater form.

EQA

EQB

The first all-electric Mercedes-Benz compact car is now available with a trio of model options – the EQA 250+ and the all-wheel drive EQA 300 4MATIC and EQA 350 4MATIC.

Compact on the outside, spacious on the inside, the EQB is available as a seven-seater and offers a maximum boot capacity of 1,710 litres so is perfect as a family vehicle.

•All-electric range of up to 328 miles* •Charge in approx. 32 minutes^ •Benefit in Kind tax rate 2% (2022/2023)

•All-electric range of up to 257 miles* •Charge in approx. 32 minutes^ •Benefit in Kind tax rate 2% (2022/2023)

EQC Presented for the first time at the Paris Motor Show in 2016, the EQC remains a trailblazer as the first Mercedes-Benz to be launched under the EQ brand.

•All-electric range of up to 255 miles* •Charge in approx. 40 minutes^ •Benefit in Kind tax rate 2% (2022/2023) *The indicated values were determined according to the prescribed measurement method – Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). Figures shown fully charged. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. Figures may not reflect real life variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. Further information about the test used to establish fuel consumption and CO2 figures can be found at charge using public rapid charging at 100 kW.

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And Mercedes-Benz electric vehicle efficiency is set to scale even greater heights following a successful road trip undertaken by the VISION EQXX prototype. It was driven from the manufacturer’s production HQ in Sindelfingen, Germany, across the Swiss Alps and northern Italy to the Côte d’Azur –

EQE

a journey of more than 1,000 kilometres completed on a single battery charge.

The technology will be deployed in upcoming series-production Mercedes vehicles thus ensuring the famous three-pointed star will continue to shine at the forefront of electric mobility.

EQS

Even more streamlined and with a shorter wheelbase, the EQE is a sporty business saloon that boasts all the essential functions of the EQS in a slightly more compact format.

The EQS is the first all-electric luxury saloon from Mercedes-EQ – fusing technology, design, functionality and connectivity to delight both drivers and passengers.

•All-electric range of up to 394 miles* •Charge in approx. 32 minutes^ •Benefit in Kind tax rate 2% (2022/2023)

•All-electric range of up to 453 miles* •Charge in approx. 31 minutes^ •Benefit in Kind tax rate 2% (2022/2023)

EQV With seating for up to seven people, the EQV combines practicality with all the advantages of an electric vehicle.

•All-electric range of up to 213 miles* •Charge in approx. 45 minutes^ •Benefit in Kind tax rate 2% (2022/2023) may include options which are not available in the UK. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) require mains electricity for charging, range figures determined with the battery driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the starting charge of the battery, factory-fitted options, accessories fitted (post registration), www.mercedes-benz.co.uk/WLTP. ^Specified voltage and current values refer to network infrastructure and can be limited by the vehicle. Times are from 10–80%

Sandown News 13

News

Peace-of-mind for just £29.99 After the past couple of years of lockdowns and limited travel, you may not have used your car as much as normal and so this summer you might be planning to get out and about much more.

If your car is between services or you just want the reassurance that everything is in order and your vehicle is running at its best before getting your travel plans underway, then why not book a Summer Health Check?

Our Mercedes-Benz trained technicians will inspect all major safety-related items, fluid levels,

and look out for any signs of wear and tear. Your Service Advisor will go through a vehicle report with you and confirm either a clean bill of health, or provide recommendations and a plan of action should anything require attention.

And to make sure that your car looks at its best too, we will also give it a sparkle with a complimentary wash and vacuum. A Summer Health Check is priced just £29.99 and can be booked now with your local Sandown Mercedes-Benz Retailer.

On course once more Sandown customers got back into the swing of things when the MercedesTrophy resumed at the end of May. More than 300 customers registered for our qualifier for the renowned golf tournament, so many thanks to all those who entered the ballot. Just 80 places were available and those successful in the draw competed at Ferndown Golf Club for the chance to represent Sandown as part of a six-strong team in the UK final qualifier at The Belfry Hotel and Resort in July.

Up-for-grabs in the Midlands will be qualification to the UK Final at St Andrews in October when the very finest Mercedes-Benz hospitality on offer will include a private dinner in the Royal & Ancient Clubhouse.

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Accessories

Here comes the summer Exploring, relaxing or just making the most of the sunshine, there is a wide range of Mercedes-Benz boutique items available that will ensure you can enjoy the summer in style.

Take your pick from the items below and many more at your local Sandown Retailer.

All prices shown are inclusive of VAT.

Cap (Silver Logo)

Women’s Casual Sunglasses B66955788

£159.60

Cap (Black Logo) B66954291

£58.50

B66954531

£18.96

Folding Chair B66958979

£61.00

Beach Towel B66953607

£44.16 Drinking Bottle B66955015

£29.00

Keyring B66953307

£30.50

Sandown News 15

Approved repairs For perfect paintwork, the answer is clear Did you know that the paint on your Mercedes-Benz is unlike any other paint used on any other car?

Famous for their commitment to delivering ‘the best or nothing,’ the manufacturer has spent years developing a unique, multi-layered coating which utilises nanotechnology to provide added protection without compromising the luxurious finish that its cars are renowned for.

This specialist know-how should be a key consideration when choosing where to take your car for repairs to its paintwork as only Mercedes-Benz approved centres guarantee to use the brand’s specific clearcoat.

Mercedes-Benz paintwork comprises five coats, each one serving a distinct purpose while at the same time working in harmony with the others to provide industry-leading protection.

At its core, a zinc coating and cathodic dip primer work to inhibit corrosion. A surfacer is then added to help absorb stone chips before a basecoat is added to provide colour. Finally, the whole thing is given a shiny, protective layer thanks to Mercedes-Benz’s innovative clear coat, which uses built-in UV filters to protect your car from the

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sun as well as special scratch resistant properties to dramatically reduce the effects of light scratches – such as those caused by mechanical car-washes – by as much as 80%.

Even with all this advanced technology and groundbreaking innovation, the paintwork on your car is never 100% impervious to damage. So, if something does go wrong, it pays to ensure that repairs are carried out to the same impeccably high-standards that Mercedes-Benz set when the vehicle was built.

Accident repair centres that are not Mercedes-Benz approved may cut costs by using a different, cheaper clearcoat and carrying out repair work to their own in-house standards which are often vastly different from the ones you can expect when bringing your car to us.

By using the expertise of a Mercedes-Benz approved accident repair centre, you can be assured that your car will be returned looking just as good as the day it rolled off the production line and with its warranty reinstated. You can also enjoy the peace-of-mind in knowing that your car is repaired to only one standard: The Mercedes-Benz standard.

Approved Used

The choice is yours Thinking about an Approved Used Mercedes-Benz then you can be confident that we can find the right car for you.

Much has been made about the shortage of used cars but call upon Sandown Mercedes-Benz and you will be genuinely spoilt for choice by the range of vehicles on offer which is constantly ever-changing.

We currently have around 450 examples in group stock with most of the Mercedes-Benz model line-up represented together with various

engine, specification and colour options.

If you’ve searched the Approved Used section of our website and discovered the car you’ve been looking for, you can secure it with a £99 deposit which is refundable whether you decide to purchase it or not. This ensures it won’t be sold before you’ve had chance to view and test drive.

But it’s not only the extensive choice that makes Sandown the first port-of-call for many customers in search of an Approved Used car, it’s the exceptional peace-of-mind that comes as standard with each one too. That’s because every vehicle is supplied as a matter of course with the numerous benefits of the Mercedes-Benz Approved Used programme that is only available from authorised Mercedes-Benz Retailers and which includes the reassurance of a comprehensive multi-point check, independent mileage, history and provenance checks, MOT insurance and the provision of a 12-month unlimited mileage warranty.

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BRABUS Coupé conversion has power to please

When is a Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Coupé not a Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Coupé? When it’s received the Sandown BRABUS treatment of course!

The BRABUS team at Sandown Mercedes-Benz has taken the performance and styling of what was already a flagship Coupé to another level by treating the car to an incredible BRABUS conversion.

The extensive programme of work has created a unique model that excites even more on the eye as well as on the road.

Inside and out and under the bonnet, this commanding Coupé benefits from BRABUS enhancements for an ownership experience like no other.

The addition of BRABUS PowerXtra and BoostXtra tuning packages increase power output 18 Sandown News

from an impressive 510hp to a jaw-dropping 600hp with torque rising from 700Nm to 800Nm. A BRABUS valve-controlled sports exhaust ensures the car sounds equally as good as it looks – items such as the special carbon rear diffuser, painted brake callipers, aluminium pedals and BRABUS badging producing truly

awesome automotive aesthetics.

BRABUS accessories and conversion packages are available for most Mercedes-Benz models, so please talk to our concierge teams in Poole or Guildford or visit: www.sandown-brabus.co.uk to find out more.

Service Profile Partnership goes from strength-to-strength Whether it’s fitness, festivals or fund-raising, Bournemouth-based entrepreneur Ty Temel is a man known for his drive in everything he takes on. And when it comes to what he drives, he is totally motivated by Mercedes-Benz.

Ty has been a fan of the brand since acquiring his first car bearing the three-pointed star – an Approved Used C 63 AMG – from Mercedes-Benz of Poole in 2014. He’s subsequently sourced a variety of models from the retailer from his favourite AMG GTS to a smart car, which he had signwritten to promote his businesses which now include multi-award-winning nightclub Halo and Rise gym.

“Eight years ago, I was doing the rounds of local dealerships looking for a nice car and none would give me the time of day until I visited Mercedes-Benz of Poole, where I was attended to and looked after as soon as I walked in,” said Ty, who currently has a C-Class Coupé with wife Claudia in a GLE. “Our relationship has flourished ever since and resulted in me recommending lots of friends and contacts to them and building a cross-promotional

partnership whereby I would publicise them on my socials and they would support my events,” he added. “And they’ve been brilliant, for example, supplying cars to pick up artists for festivals or high-profile guests for our IAM events.”

Whilst he loves the comfort, style and performance of his various Mercedes-Benz, Ty has been happy to swap four wheels for two feet – going to great lengths and great pain to support Dorset Mind. During the pandemic as the charity’s ambassador, he helped to raise £87,000 from month-long one million step and 500km run, walk or swim challenges – the last of which resulted in him suffering a stress fracture of his femur.

Still switched on to mental health awareness and shining a light on the issue, Ty is now involved in a new wellbeing campaign called Light On. For more information please visit: http://www.lightonMH.uk

Sandown News 19

Profile Leanne Infante in try-scoring action for England versus Scotland in this season’s Six Nations and (pictured below) also putting her feet up in the back of her GLA with her dog Tess whilst recovering from an ankle operation.

Rugby star’s perfect match Supremely agile, ready for every twist and turn, primed for every challenge and always at the top of their game, England scrum-half Leanne Infante shares plenty of synergies with the cars supplied through her sponsorship by Sandown Mercedes-Benz.

The Bristol Bears star, who recently won her 50th cap in the Six Nations clash with Ireland, is currently driving a GLA which has been ideal for the regular commutes up and down the M4 from her Surrey home for club duties as well as to and from England’s training camp in Buckinghamshire.

“Comfort and safety are all important but the elevated driving position places less strain on the lower back and hamstrings which I’m sure helps with injury prevention,” said the twice Women’s Premiership winner. “The media is great too as I can flick easily between music and podcasts to help the journeys pass.

“I’ve always been happy to drive so when players have been able to car share, there has been plenty of room in my Mercedes for both team-mates and all of their kit. And as I’m involved with grassroots coaching at Guildfordians Rugby Club, it can carry my bags, balls and cones to training without any fuss.”

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Leanne added: “But I’m not the only fan of my GLA as Tess, my miniature Staffordshire Bull Terrier, loves jumping up into the boot and travelling in style too.”

News Vroom with plenty of views Sandown’s Nick O’Leary is not only a Star Expert, he’s a video star too thanks to his hugely popular YouTube channel that has attracted 45,000 subscribers and millions of views from brand enthusiasts around the world.

For the past two years, Nick has been creating videos on all things Mercedes-Benz from model reviews and tutorials about vehicle features to tips and tricks to help owners maximise their ownership experience. He’s now produced 107 videos and uploads a new one every Friday at 4pm.

“It’s become a huge part of my life,” said Nick.

“Filming usually happens on a Sunday morning with the alarm going off at 5am but it’s then quite a mission as everything from the ideas, scripting, shooting, editing, distribution to

Nick O’Leary with the new C-Class in the showroom at Mercedes-Benz of Poole. social platforms and even replying to comments is all done in my spare time.”

Most watchers of the channel come from the UK, USA and Australia but it also attracts regular viewers from non-English speaking countries so Nick now uploads his own subtitles for their benefit too. And there’s much for all to look forward to. “I currently

have ideas for future videos for the remainder of the year but it’s amazing how the channel has taken off,” added Nick. “I started out filming on an iPhone and with a Lav Mic but, having upgraded my equipment and even purchasing a film-making course, my goal for the future is to produce high quality watchable content for all.”

Mouthwatering offer Enjoy dinner on Sandown with this tasty offer to not only savour but save on food from celebrity chef’s Rick Stein’s culinary brand.

Sandown has teamed up with Stein’s at Home in a partnership that provides customers with 10% off restaurant-quality meals and sustainably caught fish – all delivered straight to your door.

The menu boxes featuring starter, main course and dessert are prepared for diners to finish off at home and are ideal for that big occasion or to send as a special gesture to family or friends.

Meanwhile sensibly sourced fish and shellfish is provided by the seafood service, which is backed up by online practical advice, step-by-step

techniques, how-to videos and fabulous recipes from Rick Stein and his team.

This mouthwatering offer is available on Stein’s at Home menus and online fishmonger only. To take advantage, please visit the shop portal at www.rickstein.com and then quote SANDOWNMEC10 at the checkout.

Sandown News 21

News Apprentice acclaim for Hana Hana Baldwin found the winning formula to win a national Mercedes-Benz apprenticeship award and her reward is to spend some time with the Mercedes-AMG Petronas racing team ahead of the British Grand Prix.

The Mercedes-Benz of Epsom Parts Apprentice has been named Mercedes-Benz UK Non-Technical Light Vehicle Apprentice of the Year.

Hana was one of five apprentices from around the country to have been recognised for their progress to date on the Mercedes-Benz Apprenticeship Programme, where their grades, performance and engagement were all taken into consideration. Their prize is a week of work experience at the headquarters of Mercedes-AMG Petronas in Brackley as the F1 team prepares the cars of Lewis Hamilton and George Russell for the Silverstone race.

“Hana is an integral part of #TeamEpsom and her attitude and work ethic are highly regarded by her peers and colleagues... She has many years of growth and accomplishment ahead of her as part of the Sandown Epsom team.”

Hana Baldwin (centre) is congratulated on her apprentice award by her Mercedes-Benz of Epsom colleagues Donna Spratt (left), Parts Supervisor, and James Jackson, Aftersales Manager.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime prize and one I’m definitely looking forward to,” said Hana. “I felt I was capable of winning an award but when I found out I had won I was pleasantly surprised and honoured as well as being very proud.

“All being well, I’m looking forward to completing my apprenticeship and gaining my first official position as a fully-qualified parts advisor. As a job, it presents the challenges of learning something new every day – whether it be a new location of a part, a new dealership process or dealing with new people.”

James Jackson, Mercedes-Benz of Epsom’s Aftersales Manager, was full of praise for Hana and her achievement.

“Hana is an integral part of #TeamEpsom and her

attitude and work ethic are highly regarded by her peers and colleagues,” he added. “She has many years of growth and accomplishment ahead of her as part of the Sandown Epsom team.”

Sandown currently has 28 Technical and Parts Apprentices across all of its sites at various stages of the three-year Mercedes-Benz programme and, looking to the future, is intending to recruit a further 13 this summer.

All undertake a structured programme of either block release training of one week in every six at the Mercedes-Benz Academy in Milton Keynes or day release weekly at a local technical college. Once completed, they receive a Level 3 qualification and join the Sandown team as a permanent employee.

22 Sandown News

smart

On the way: smart #1 The first new model from smart since 2014 was recently unveiled in Berlin as the iconic brand continues its reinvention as a manufacturer of electric vehicles (EVs).

Deliveries of the smart #1 will commence in mainland Europe at the end of this year, with the first right hand cars expected to arrive in the UK in mid-2023.

The smart #1 is shaped by new design, new technology and a new approach to create an urban companion that features a high degree of connectivity, unique user interface offering AI-based voice control and class-leading driver assistance technologies.

Its eye-catching exterior is forwardthinking and progressive with elements such

as concealed electric door handles, frameless doors, and a floating halo roof amongst its distinctive features. Inside, thanks to its 4,270mm length and 2,750mm wheelbase, the smart #1 is impressively spacious and boasts an enhanced 360° view.

Promising an exceptional electric mobility experience, the new smart will be capable of a range of over 260 miles. With fast charging of less than 30 minutes from 10-80% at 150kW, it’s also capable of handling much longer distances too.

For further information on the smart #1 or to register your interest, please contact one of the Sandown smart retailers in Basingstoke, Epsom, Guildford or Poole.

Sandown News 23

For the very best Mercedes-Benz service and expertise. And that’s official. sandown-group.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Basingstoke

Mercedes-Benz of Hindhead

Edison Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 6YH

Seven Thorns Lane, Bramshott Chase, Surrey GU26 6DF

Mercedes-Benz of Dorchester

Mercedes-Benz of Newbury

Millers Close, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 1SS

123 London Road, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2BX

Mercedes-Benz of Epsom

Mercedes-Benz of Poole

1 Western Road, Epsom, Surrey KT17 1JG

Holes Bay Road, Poole, Dorset BH15 2BD

Mercedes-Benz of Farnborough

Mercedes-Benz of Salisbury

Hawley Lane Trade Centre, Hawley Lane, Surrey GU14 8EH

Southampton Road, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2JS

Mercedes-Benz of Guildford

Mercedes-Benz Van Centre Poole

Moorfield Road, Slyfield Industrial Estate, Surrey GU1 1RU

Unit K, The Fulcrum, Vantage Way, Poole, Dorset BH12 4NU

Sales:

0330 012 2069

Service:

0330 012 2070