Mercedes-Benz Vans has unveiled an electric version of its Sprinter van, which boasts a driving range of up to 530km.
The eSprinter is available as a panel van in two body lengths, with two battery size options. The standard wheelbase is available with a 100kW Permanent magnet Synchronous Motor (PSM) and an 81kWh battery. The long wheelbase comes with either a 100kW or 150kW PSM, and an 81kWh battery or 113 kWh battery, respectively. The two different battery sizes give customers flexibility depending on their individual requirements in terms of range and payload, said Marinus Venter, head of product, marketing and customer services for Mercedes-Benz Vans SA.
The eSprinter’s robust technical features and efficiency make it the perfect choice for businesses looking to embrace locally emission-free mobility without compromising on performance, said Venter.
The vehicle could be ideal for longer journeys, he said, noting that a test drive in a pre-production eSprinter with a 113 kWh battery completed a 475km route on a single charge. According to simulations based on the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) city cycle, a range of up to 530km is possible for journeys in urban areas.
Regenerative braking allows energy recovery during overrun and braking, converting kinetic energy back into electrical energy to recharge the battery. The intensity of the recuperation can be adjusted via shift paddles behind the steering wheel.
The new eSprinter is capable of both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging. At a maximum charge rate of 115kW, the eSprinter can be charged to 80% in 32 minutes with the 81kWh battery, and in 42 minutes with the 113kWh battery.
Some of the safety features always on board with the new eSprinter range are active brake assist, cross wind assist, adaptive brake lights and cruise control. Optional equipment includes a reversing camera, LED high performance headlamps and active lane keeping assist.
The eSprinter comes standard with an MBUX multimedia system, rain sensor, automatic headlights and fabric seats, with Artico leather available as an option. It rides on steel 16-inch wheels.
Pricing of the eSprinter ranges from R1,270,000 to R1,566,723 including a two-year/unlimited kilometres warranty and eight-year/160,000km battery warranty, with optional maintenance plans available from R54,682. Service intervals are every one year or 40,000km and the eSprinter is available for direct purchase through Mercedes-Benz SA.
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