A novel range of options is poised to help the new Mercedes-Benz Vaneo claim a substantial share of booming mini-MPV sales, it was claimed at the Frankfurt motor show.

The innovative vehicle will be available with special custom packs to cater for snow sports enthusiasts, surfers, cyclists and dog owners when it reaches the showrooms early next year, promised senior DaimlerChrysler vice-president Dr Rolf Bartke.

'We believe the compact van sector offers the biggest growth potential in future. Annual sales of this kind of vehicle will reach 960,000 across Europe by 2004 - and we want to secure a good share of the business.

We think this product puts up a convincing argument and we're confident it will be a huge success,' said Bartke at the Vaneo launch.

Based on the A-class supermini, the model carries either seven people or up to 3,000 litres of luggage. (October 2001)