Staff from Mercedes-Benz’s UK retail network will begin product training on its new C-class from mid-April, in preparation for its June 14 launch.

Dealer principals, sales staff and technicians will be flown to the Circuito Monteblanco racetrack near Seville, Spain, for two days of product workshops and track and road driving in the new saloon.

Martin Ward, manufacturer relationship manager with CAP, attended a preview of the dealer event last week. He says: “The new C-class is better than the current car, and is what the network needs to compete with its rivals again.”

Ward says much of the dealer training is focused on being top for customer satisfaction. “But as Dermot Kelly, managing director of Mercedes Car Group UK, told me, it’s not easy, and with so many models, engines and derivatives, ensuring all staff gain knowledge of the range will take time. But Kelly is confident it is possible.

“With the dealer training starting in Spain, Mercedes is committing to better customer service,” says Ward.