New electric Sprinter has better range and more technology

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is leading the charge in the UK’s large van market with a new electric model that delivers more range, technology and safety for fleet operators.

A complete portfolio with several upgrades to standard specification will be on offer, including van and chassis body styles in N1 or N2 vehicle class. There will be two lengths on offer, L2 (long) or L3 (extra-long), two trim levels, PRO and SELECT, a choice of 81 or 113 kWh battery capacities and a towing capacity of up to 1.5 tonnes. For the first time, there is also a choice of two motors, with either 100 or 150 kW peak output.

Orders are now being taken for 113 kWh panel van models, priced from £73,260, ex-VAT. New eSprinter models are also expected to be eligible for the UK government’s plug-in van grant, giving businesses up to 35% off the purchase price, up to a maximum of £5,000.

The first vehicles are expected to hit UK roads in May. Orders for 81 kWh battery vans and all other variants will take place later this year.

Equipped with the largest battery, (113 kWh 414 Van L3 PRO model), the electric range for the eSprinter, based on the WLTP combined cycle, is up to 271 miles (436 km) – more than double the previous model.

Three driving programmes: Maximum Range, Economic and Comfort control engine power, torque and climate control, while regenerative braking, which converts kinetic energy into electrical energy, also helps to maximise range. Features such as HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) with heat pump, heated seats and active thermal management also help to optimise real-world range all year round.

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 kW (standard for the UK) at a fast-charging station, meaning the battery with a usable capacity of 113 kWh can be charged from 10-80% in around 42 minutes at a maximum of 115 kW.

The new eSprinter offers exemplary safety, security and assistance systems as standard. They include Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Blind spot Assist, Attention Assis, drowsiness warning, Intelligent Speed Assist with cruise control, Mercedes-Benz emergency call system, an anti-theft protection package with a double-lock system and on panel van models, reversing camera.

Moving-off Information Assist to avoid collisions with other road users in front of the vehicle when moving off and Sideguard Assist, which helps to better perceive pedestrians and cyclists in a defined area on the passenger side, are both standard for vehicles with N2 approval and optional for N1 approved variants. An optional parking package is also available with a 360-degree camera and a new 3D display for visibility of obstacles.

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