Mercedes introduces 'smart' campervan

Mercedes-Benz is introducing its MBAC (Mercedes Benz Advanced Control) interface as a standard feature on its Marco Polo campervans.

Owners will get a 10.25in touchscreen central display in the cab and, when mated to a smartphone app, it will allow mobile control of a host of functions:

• Check fresh and waste water tank levels

• Ascertain leisure battery voltage

• Control the blown-air heater with timers and a night-time setting

• Set the temperature of the fridge

• Raise and lower the electric pop-up roof

• Play with the settings of the sound system (including bass and more)

• Adjust the brightness and colour temperature of the interior lights, including the ambient ones

You will also be able to take advantage of the Mercedes ‘me connect’ services. The free elements of this include maintenance management, accident recovery and breakdown management, telediagnostics and remote vehicle diagnostics. Buyers can then opt for other services including vehicle monitoring/tracking, navigation and in-vehicle internet.

Another new feature of the Marco Polo is the option of a Premium Sport Package for the exterior, with chrome details on the bumpers and five-spoke 18in alloys, as well as sports suspension and Mercedes-Benz branding on the brake callipers.