Keen golfers from all over the world are now being ferried to and from a ‘must play’ masterpiece on the Ayrshire coast in a battery-powered, multi-seat Mercedes-Benz that offers a winning combination of stylish comfort and environmental compatibility.
The stunning Dundonald Links golf resort is the latest addition to the portfolio of award-winning holiday destinations operated by Darwin Escapes, and opened last year following a major investment by its new owner.
Supplied by eStar Truck & Van, the fully electric eVito Tourer is now being used by the Dundonald Links team to chauffeur guests – particularly during adverse weather – between the impressively refurbished clubhouse with world-class restaurant, and the luxury hotel rooms and lodges that were custom-designed with golfers in mind.
The vehicle also makes regular runs to collect those arriving at Glasgow Airport, and return them after their breaks for flights home – with a range of 217-221 miles (combined WLTP) the eVito Tourer is capable of making the 53-mile round trip four times between charges, although it is never required to do so.
Powered by a 100kWh battery that can be restored to 80% of full capacity in as little as 40 minutes, the eVito Tourer can accommodate a driver and up to eight passengers in its three rows of seats. Dundonald Links’ extra-long L3 variant also offers a useful area at the rear for carrying golf clubs and other luggage – should it be needed, customers can create more space for cargo by removing seats.
To reduce battery usage, all eVito Tourers can be pre-heated or cooled while charging, via an app, which can also provide theft warning alerts and GPS tracking. Standard specification includes TEMPMATIC air-conditioning and a comprehensive array of safety technology that includes the Active Brake Assist and ATTENTION ASSIST systems.
The SELECT trimline chosen for Dundonald Links features styling enhancements such as a chrome grille and interior highlights, colour-coded bumpers and distinctive, 17-inch alloy wheels, as well as upgraded comfort seats with armrests.
Darwin Escapes operates holiday parks, retreats and resorts throughout the UK. Its portfolio current consists of 22 unique destinations that offer both holiday breaks and holiday home ownership options for customers. Each location is hand-picked and unique.
Dundonald Links, meanwhile, has hosted the Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies Open on three occasions since 2015, while Rafa Cabrero Bello won the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open here in 2017. The par-72 course offers a classic seaside links golf experience, with generous fairways and undulating greens.
Group Operations Director Drew Campbell explained: “We’ve transformed Dundonald Links since the acquisition and were looking for a vehicle to transport guests that not only met a list of practical criteria but also offered an image of quality and comfort appropriate to our five-star resort.
“The eVito Tourer ticks all the boxes,” he enthused. “It’s the perfect size, flexible in terms of seating configurations, and clearly built to a very high standard. The fact that our first fully electric commercial vehicle is a Mercedes-Benz is also very reassuring, given the brand’s reputation for reliability and durability.
“Plus, of course, the vehicle looks fantastic and has already attracted some highly positive feedback not only from delighted colleagues but also from guests, who appreciate travelling in such style and comfort.”
Established in 2008, Darwin Escapes is now preparing to trial an eVito panel van supplied by eStar Truck & Van at the Talacre Beach Holiday Home Park, near Prestatyn, in North Wales; Talacre is also where the company has its headquarters. This vehicle will be allocated to engineers and other personnel responsible for maintenance at the resort.
“We’re an environmentally conscious business so I’m hoping that this is just the start of an ongoing relationship with eStar Truck & van as we transition away from diesel and into more electric vehicles,” continued Mr Campbell.
“Certainly, I’ve been really impressed with everything I’ve seen so far of the Dealer. Its Van Sales Executive John-Paul Donnelly clearly knows what he’s talking about when it comes to the technology. He’s been very informative and helpful throughout, while our eVito Tourer was delivered right on time.”
All Mercedes-Benz vans are backed by three-year, unlimited mileage manufacturer’s warranties and come with MobiloVan cover, which features free round-the-clock emergency roadside assistance. For electric variants this includes ‘out of charge’ cover, while the eVito Tourer’s 100kWh battery is guaranteed for eight years/160,000 km.
