Switzerland’s longest sledge run is located in the Fideriser Heubergen in Graubünden. It is a completely remote area and this is what attracts tourists like a magnet. But there is something unique about this place: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4×4 vehicles run instead of the cable cars.
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4×4 vans take the riders up the mountain along a 12-kilometer sledge run, the longest in Switzerland. The Sprinters face steep hills, snow and icy roads to transport not only tourists, but material, food and beverage for the guests.
“Our vehicles have a very difficult and demanding job. The Sprinters often have to face difficult or adverse conditions here. Whether it is snow, rain or ice. Overcoming these is a major challenge for the vehicles”, says Henrik Vetsch – General Manager Fideriser Heuberge.
It takes a good driver to battle these conditions. But it takes cars just as good.
“The Sprinter is a very comfortable vehicle with a very good handling. All-wheel drive is essential”, tells Hans Andreas Valar – Driver Fideriser Heubarge.
With such a broad van range out there, why did the facility choose the Sprinters to fight the all-year long winter?
“We have also tried out competing products. However, we discovered that these vehicles had suffered serious damage after the very first run. Up to the point where we would have been unable to act”, Henrik Vetsch remembers.
With a 270-guest capacity, the facility is a handful. For the winter season, only when it comes to fondue cheese, the Sprinters transport no less than 4.5 tons of it.
For the hotel located on top of the mountain, losing the cars would be equal to closing the business.
“Without the Sprinter, we would be cut off from the outside world. It keeps us supplied. We would be lost without the Sprinter!”
