Auto
Electrifying the Road: Mercedes-Benz Unveils the New eSprinter and Sprinter for Sales
- The most versatile and efficient all-electric Mercedes-Benz van to date will be available to order from 16 January
- eSprinter and Sprinter with numerous new digital extras, the latest generation of MBUX as well as safety and assistance systems with additional and in some cases new and further developed functions
- eSprinter with a range of up to 440 kilometres[1],[2] (according to WLTP)
The electrified namesake of the segment for large vans – the new Mercedes-Benz eSprinter – will soon hit the roads. The added value for customers is evident in its versatility and flexibility: Two body shapes and lengths, three battery sizes and a high payload make the new eSprinter the ideal vehicle for a wide range of applications. Depending on their needs, the customer can opt for more range or more payload. The panel van will be available to order from 16 January in combination with 56 kWh or 113 kWh of usable battery capacity. A version with 81 kWh will follow shortly. In addition, the new eSprinter will also be available as an open model for the first time at a later date. This makes the eSprinter an attractive basic vehicle for numerous new sectors as well as body and equipment manufacturers. In addition, it comes with a plus in intelligent, digital connectivity, for the first time with the MBUX multimedia system, enhanced safety and assistance systems as well as upgraded standard equipment. In addition, the eSprinter will be available with an optional trailer coupling.
The conventionally powered Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will also be available to order from 16 January with numerous new features. It can be ordered from local branches as well as sales partners and will be available for order online soon.
“With its versatility, a new generation of infotainment systems and enhanced safety- and assistance systems, the Sprinter continues to be the perfect overall system solution for a wide range of commercial transport and mobility requirements. Meanwhile, the new eSprinter impresses with its efficiency, range and load volume. In doing so, it also underscores the Group’s claim to leadership in electric mobility in the commercially oriented segment.”
Andreas Zygan, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans Development
Versatile and efficient: The new Mercedes-Benz eSprinter
Efficiency, range and load volume: This triad makes the new Mercedes-Benz eSprinter a versatile all-rounder. In addition, it brings a large number of technical innovations and is based on a new concept consisting of three modules. These allow the greatest possible freedom in the development and design of various extensions and bodies, which were previously only known from the conventionally powered Sprinter.
The front module, a uniformly designed stem, encompasses all high-voltage components and can be combined unchanged with all vehicle variants, regardless of wheelbase and battery size. The module for the space-saving integrated high-voltage battery is located in the underbody. The battery position between the axles, together with the robust battery housing, ensures optimal storage of the high-voltage battery, and the low centre of gravity has a positive influence on handling. The rear module with the electrically driven rear axle is used in all variants of the new eSprinter. The compact and powerful electric motor is also integrated into the rear module.
The new eSprinter demonstrated its efficiency during a test drive in which a pre-production vehicle of the new eSprinter panel van with a battery size of 113 kWh completed the route from Stuttgart to Munich and back – a route length of 475 kilometres – on a single battery charge and without recharging.
With regards to a practical vehicle configuration for CEP (courier, express and parcel service) use, an extra-long eSprinter with a high-roof was selected for this test drive.
Electric powertrain and high-voltage battery
The electrically driven rear axle in the new Mercedes-Benz eSprinter offers customers advantages in terms of vehicle lengths, maximum gross vehicle weight (up to 4.25 tonnes) as well as towing capacities (up to 2 tonnes) and load volume (maximum 14 m³). Accordingly, the new eSprinter is available in two body shapes[3] and lengths as well as with an efficient electric motor in the output levels of 100 and 150 kilowatts peak each. The new permanent magnet synchronous motor (PSM) is characterized by a particularly high efficiency. In addition, the thermal management has also been further developed. Customers can choose between three different battery sizes for the new eSprinter, depending on their individual requirements in terms of range and payload: a battery with a usable capacity of 113 kWh, 81 kWh or 56 kWh (81 kWh variant will be available to order later this year). The electric range, calculated on a simulation based on the WLTP cycle, will be up to 440 kilometres1,2. According to simulations based on the WLTP City cycle, a range of up to 530 kilometres1,2 is possible for journeys in urban areas. With these ranges, the vehicle is also ideal for longer journeys. The battery cells are made of lithium iron phosphate and are free of cobalt and nickel. The energy recovery in overrun and braking mode (recuperation) ensures optimised and efficient driving. The intensity of the recuperation can be adjusted individually via shift paddles behind the steering wheel. A particularly efficient and comfortable driving style is made possible by the new DAUTO automatic recuperation system in the eSprinter. According to the maxim “drive with foresight and save energy”, information from the radar, camera and navigation data is networked and the strength of the recuperation is adapted to the situation automatically in real time. In addition, the ECO Assist can support anticipatory driving: Depending on the equipment and country, the system analyzes whether a vehicle is driving ahead, what the speed limit is or whether an incline is following and indicates when the foot should be taken off the accelerator in the instrument cluster. Depending on the situation, it then selects the appropriate recuperation strength. In addition, three drive modes help you choose between maximum comfort or maximum range.
Fast-charging on a public charging network with Mercedes me Charge[4]
Like all electric vans from Mercedes-Benz, the new eSprinter is capable of both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging. The on-board charger can be charged with direct current at up to 115 kilowatts[5] (optional) at a fast-charging station. In concrete terms, this means: The battery with a capacity of 56 kWh is charged from 10 to 80 percent[6] in around 28 minutes at a maximum of 115 kW. The battery with a usable capacity of 113 kWh needs around 42 minutes at a maximum of 115 kW. The Mercedes me Charge4 digital service is also available for the eSprinter. This gives customers access to one of the largest public charging networks in Europe with around 600,000 charging points – including the European fast-charging network IONITY.
Mercedes me Charge ensures a convenient charging experience and offers access to 1,150 different operators of public charging stations in Europe via a single charging contract[7]. These include the Mercedes-Benz Charging Hubs, whose first European location was recently opened in Mannheim. With the Mercedes me Charge tariff system, customers can benefit from fixed prices that apply regardless of the charging station operator. In this way, Mercedes-Benz creates maximum cost transparency. Customers can adapt their tariff to their individual charging behaviour and optimise costs. At all stations, Mercedes me Charge enables charging with electricity from renewable energy sources[8].
For the new eSprinter, there will also be a B2B solution especially for corporate customers. This offers corporate and fleet customers the option of unifying vehicle and driver management as well as invoicing for the entire company.
The new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with conventional drive offers maximum flexibility
Whether on the construction site, in shuttle service or as a base for motorhomes: In all its variations, the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter promises comfort on and off the road – from the chassis and power unit to the panel van and tourer, with rear-, front- or all-wheel drive and the maximum gross vehicle weight (up to 5.5 tonnes). With these variants, the large van is equipped for use in a wide variety of segments and for numerous industry-specific requirements. Under the bonnet, the tried-and-tested 2.0-litre diesel engine (OM654) is available in up to four output levels of 84 kW, 110 kW, 125 kW and 140 kW – depending on the selected model and drive variant. The all-wheel-drive version of the Sprinter is available in all models. The drive variants are combined with the comfortable 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission.
Current MBUX generation and a variety of digital extras
In both the eSprinter and the Sprinter, the latest generation of the MBUX (Mercedes Benz User Experience) multimedia system will be used as standard equipment with a 26 cm (10.25-inch) display. This is characterised by even faster computing power and further improved menu navigation. As a result, the eSprinter and Sprinter offer a digital and interactive experience. In addition, the MBUX infotainment system, in conjunction with a Mercedes me account[9], provides a wide range of digital extras. They make the Sprinter and eSprinter increasingly intelligent – and the everyday life of customers even easier and more efficient. This is because before and after the journey or even on the road, additional functions can be used that contribute to greater comfort and safety. This includes free services such as maintenance, accident, and breakdown management, as well as remote services such as locking and unlocking the doors and opening and closing the windows via the Mercedes me app. The Mercedes-Benz Van Uptime real-time diagnostics system is also available to commercial customers as an optional digital service package for the Sprinter. The product enables the evaluation and interpretation of vehicle data in real time in order to prevent vehicle downtime. Other highlights include extensive personalisation options, such as seat-specific voice recognition for the driver and front passenger, which will be possible in combination with the comfort overhead control unit, as well as optimisations for the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant. In addition, for the first time, customers will be able to take advantage of the new satellite view and significantly improved navigation for trailers and oversized vehicles, which is specially adapted to the requirements of large vehicles.
Thanks to MBUX, the new eSprinter is also integrated into the electromobile ecosystem of intelligent navigation (navigation with electric intelligence) with active range management and cloud-based services and apps. This ensures relaxed journeys with transparency and the greatest possible planning security. For example, the charging settings can be adjusted, the best possible charging strategy can be calculated and pre-conditioning can be carried out.
Safety and assistance systems: even better support in all situations
The safety and assistance systems[10] in the new Sprinter and eSprinter are equipped with additional, and in some cases new and further developed functions, most of which are already included in the standard equipment. For example, the standard Active Brake Assist now includes the intersection function and can therefore also warn of vertically crossing or oncoming vehicles even at speeds of up to 60 km/h and of dangerous overtaking manoeuvres at speeds of up to 70 km/h, as well as intervene in an emergency at speeds of up to 40 km/h and assist with turning if a collision with another vehicle is imminent. In addition, always on board with the new eSprinter and the new Sprinter are: Active Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness warning, Intelligent Speed Assist with cruise control including free navigation data for up to seven years after the vehicle’s production date, the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system and the reversing camera for panel vans and tourers. Optionally, for the first time, the Moving-off Information Assist[11] is available to avoid collisions with other road users in front of the vehicle when moving off. The Sideguard Assist, which is standard for vehicles with N2 approval but is otherwise optional, helps to better perceive pedestrians and cyclists in a defined area on the passenger side. For convenient and fast parking, the parking package is available with a 360-degree camera and new 3D display for visibility of obstacles. Finally, the optional digital rear-view mirror offers a comfortable view to the rear even when there is no rear window or the vehicle is long.
Significantly upgraded standard equipment and simplified offer logic at the start of sales
Mercedes-Benz Vans has comprehensively upgraded the standard equipment for the Sprinter and eSprinter and tailored the offer logic for the equipment packages even more precisely to the specific wishes of customers. Functional equipment, which is already often purchased together, is now increasingly bundled in packages. For both models, for example, there is a choice of the Winter Package PLUS (e. g. with heated steering wheel), the Active Safety Package (e. g. with Distance Assist DISTRONIC) and the Load Compartment Package.
With the BASE line, the Sprinter and eSprinter offer, among other things, MBUX with a new generation of telematics, a 26 cm (10.25 inches) display and a reversing camera, an instrument cluster with colour display, the new multifunction steering wheel with hands-off detection, tyre pressure monitoring (front/rear), rain sensor and headlight assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Intelligent Speed Assist and cruise control, as well as ATTENTION ASSIST as standard. The Line PRO also includes, for example, Hill-Start Assist, a steering wheel that can be adjusted in height and inclination, as well as the TEMPMATIC air conditioning system and a 5V USB socket. Starting with the SELECT line, customers can also look forward to a leather steering wheel, a comfort seat for the driver, the comfort overhead control unit and LED high-performance headlights including Adaptive Highbeam Assist.
For a particularly attractive entry, Mercedes-Benz Vans is offering a special edition for commercially oriented customers in Germany at the launch of the new models. The Sprinter panel van “BASE Special Edition” is available for 52,348.10 euros[12] (43,990 euros[13]) – as well as the more compact midsize Van Vito as a “BASE Special Edition” at a price of 41,471.50 euros12 (34,850 euros13). This represents a transition to the predecessor model with the same price and with noticeably enriched standard equipment.
The new eSprinter panel van with the 56 kWh battery starts at 71,388.10 euros12 (59,990 euros13). In the field of battery-electric vehicles, leasing is particularly relevant for customers: Up to 80 percent of commercial Mercedes-Benz eVans are leased. The new eSprinter panel van starts with a monthly leasing instalment of 690 euros[14].
Technical Data
Mercedes-Benz eSprinter
| Engine | Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PSM) 100 kW (80 kW continuous power) / 150 kW (80 kW continuous power) | ||
| Battery Capacity | 56 kWh | 81 kWh | 113 kWh |
| WLTP range1,2 | 220 km | 310 km | 440 km |
| Charging standard | AC / DC | ||
| Max. charging power AC5 | 11 kW | 11 kW | 11 kW |
| Min. charging time AC6 | approx. 5:30 h | approx. 8:00 h | approx. 11:00 h |
| Max. charging power DC5 | 115 kW | 115 kW | 115 kW |
| Min. charging time DC6 | approx. 28 min | approx. 32 min | approx. 42 min |
| Voltage
DC charging System |
400V | ||
| Drive | Rear wheel drive | ||
| Maximum torque | 400 Nm (min. 30s) | ||
| Maximum Speed | Up to 120 km/h | ||
| High-voltage battery | LFP (lithium iron phosphate – free of cobalt and nickel) | ||
| Permissible gross vehicle weight | Max. 4,25 t | ||
| Permissible gross combination mass | Max. 5 t | ||
| Trailer load | Max. 2 t | ||
| Driving modes | “MR” (Maximum range), “E” (Economic), “C” (Comfort): | ||
[1] Information on the range are preliminary and have been determined internally in accordance with the “WLTP test procedure” certification method. To date, there have been no confirmed values from an officially recognised testing organisation, nor has there been an EC type approval or a certificate of conformity with official values. Discrepancies between the data and the official values are possible.
[2] The actual range also depends on the individual driving style, road and traffic conditions, outside temperature, use of air conditioning/heating, etc. and may vary.
[3] Sales of the open model will start at a later date.
[4] In order to be able to use the Mercedes me connect service “Mercedes me Charge”, a personal Mercedes me ID and acceptance of the Mercedes me connect terms of use are required. Furthermore, a charging contract with Digital Charging Solutions GmbH is required in Europe.
[5] Maximum charging power at DC charging station with supply voltage 400 volts, current 300 A; the maximum charging power depends on various factors, such as ambient and battery temperature and the state of charge of the battery at the start of charging.
[6] Minimum charging time from 10 to 80 % under optimal conditions at DC charging station with supply voltage 400 volts, current 300 A; the charging time may vary depending on various factors such as ambient and battery temperature and if additional auxiliary consumers such as heating are used.
[7] A service provided by Digital Charging Solutions GmbH.
[8] Mercedes-Benz uses green electricity certificates to ensure that an equivalent amount of electricity from renewable energies is fed into the power grid for charging processes via Mercedes me Charge, if electricity from renewable energies is not yet available.
[9] In order to use the Mercedes me connect services, a personal Mercedes me ID and acceptance of the terms of use for the Mercedes me connect services are required. In addition, the respective vehicle must be linked to the user account. At the end of the initial term, the services can be extended for a fee, provided that they are still offered for the corresponding vehicle. The initial activation of the services is possible within one year from the date of initial registration or commissioning by the customer, whichever comes first.
[10] The driver assistance and safety systems from Mercedes-Benz are aids and do not relieve the driver of his or her responsibility.
[11] Standard for vehicle configurations with a gross vehicle weight of more than 3.5 tonnes. If a collision with a pedestrian or cyclist is imminent, a warning signal is generated (visually and acoustically, via the instrument cluster). The function is active up to a speed of 10 km/h, and Active Brake Assist assists the driver at faster speeds.
[12] German gross list price, including 19% VAT
[13] German net list price excluding 19% VAT
[14] A leasing example from Mercedes-Benz Leasing Deutschland GmbH, Siemensstraße 7, 70469 Stuttgart, for commercial customers for an eSprinter panel van long with 56 kWh battery capacity, purchase price ex works € 59,990.00 (net without 19% VAT), leasing special payment € 39.00, term 48 months, total mileage 80,000 km, 48 mthly. Leasing instalments of 690 euros each. As of 01/2024. All prices plus VAT. Manufacturer’s recommended retail price. Plus local repatriation costs.
Source: Mercedes-Benz
