Despite the accelerated hydrogen propulsion technology, this is an ideal time for a fully electric commercial transporter and cargo hauler like Mercedes' new eSprinter. Zero tailpipe emissions align with sustainability goals and environmental regulations, and electric vehicles generally have lower operating costs compared to traditional diesel or gasoline vans. With fewer moving parts and less maintenance required, businesses can save on servicing and repair expenses over the vehicle's lifetime.
The recently unveiled Mercedes-Benz eSprinter marks a groundbreaking entry into the large van market as an EV trailblazer. American consumers now have the opportunity to enhance their fleets with a sustainable option featuring zero emissions and powered by a cutting-edge battery-electric system under the renowned Mercedes-Benz brand.
Alongside its impressive efficiency enhancements, the eSprinter introduces a range of technological advancements aimed at streamlining driving experiences and optimizing fleet management with a focus on sustainability. Here's what you need to know about the 2024 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter.
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Upon its debut in the North American market, the eSprinter will come in a 170'' wheelbase cargo van variant featuring a high roof and a robust 113-kilowatt hour (kWh) battery with usable capacity.
With the largest available battery, this electric vehicle returns an impressive electric range of up to approximately 273 miles (44,034 kilometers), as per simulations based on the WLTP cycle.
For urban settings, the simulated range based on the WLTP city cycle extends up to about 329 miles (53,034 kilometers), catering to both short commutes and longer trips. Utilizing lithium/iron phosphate technology, the eSprinter eliminates the need for cobalt or nickel, rendering it ideal for light commercial vehicles due to its durability.
The active thermal management enhances efficiency, complemented by the standard inclusion of a heat pump. With a cargo capacity of 488 cubic feet and a permissible gross vehicle weight of up to 9,370 lbs., the rear-wheel-drive eSprinter proves itself as practical as its counterparts powered by internal combustion engines.
Additionally, eXpertUpfitter solutions such as shelving systems, workbenches, or heavy-duty wood floors cater to various customization needs for the load compartment, transforming the eSprinter into a versatile mobile workshop or spacious delivery van.
The all-new eSprinter's exterior design is characterized by a clean and aerodynamic profile with near-identical features to the gasoline model. Despite being all-new for 2024, the eSprinter maintains the classic Mercedes-Benz van look and functionality, ensuring it doesn't lose out on cargo-carrying ability or practicality.
The exterior design flaunts a raised roof, a 170-inch wheelbase, and a charging hatch beneath the Mercedes logo in the center of the grille.
The freshly introduced eSprinter embodies a novel design concept characterized by three distinct modules, facilitating seamless adaptation of the platform to accommodate a diverse array of vehicle variants.
Within this framework, the front module houses all high-voltage components and offers compatibility with all variants, irrespective of wheelbase and battery size. Placed within the center module, the integrated high-voltage battery resides snugly within a sturdy housing beneath the vehicle's underbody, optimizing space utilization.
This strategic placement ensures a low center of gravity to further enhance the vehicle’s handling and safety.
Meanwhile, the rear module hosts the compact yet potent electric motor responsible for propelling the rear axle. “The Mercedes-Benz eSprinter underlines our claim to ‘Lead in Electric' and kicks off the next stage of our electrification strategy.
This versatility and flexibility make the new eSprinter the ideal vehicle for a wide range of applications,” says Mathias Geisen, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter boasts a modern and functional interior designed to meet the needs of commercial and cargo vehicle users.
The interior focuses on comfort, technology, and practicality, offering a pleasant driving and working environment for businesses and fleet owners. It includes amenities such as adjustable seating, ample storage compartments, and a user-friendly layout for controls and infotainment.
Speaking of infotainment, the eSprinter is equipped with the latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system, complete with a touchscreen display, "Hey Mercedes" voice command capability, navigation, and connectivity options to keep the driver informed and entertained.
The standard Active Brake Assist, capable of providing emergency braking support, is just one member of the van's driver-aid arsenal. More notable are the Blind Spot Assist and ATTENTION ASSIST.
An additional interior highlight is the optional digital rear-view mirror, providing the driver with unobstructed views of the vehicle's surroundings, particularly advantageous when reversing.
With this option, the traditional rear-view mirror on the windshield doubles as a digital display, showing images from a High Dynamic Range camera mounted on the exterior rear end of the roof. Equipped with front and rear light sensors, the mirror automatically adjusts the display brightness according to ambient conditions.
The eSprinter has a maximum payload capacity of 2,626 lbs (1,191 kg) paired with ample cargo space for transporting goods, with dimensions that can accommodate up to 13.8 cubic meters of cargo. The interior cargo area is designed to optimize storage and accessibility for commercial and delivery applications.
With 4,200 lb of towing grunt, the eSprinter’s towing capacity is appropriate for light to moderate towing needs. The specific towing capacity varies based on the configuration and optional equipment chosen. Comparatively, the gas-powered Sprinter has a higher towing capacity.
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The all-new eSprinter’s electric powertrain incorporates two innovative components: an efficient motor and an advanced electric rear axle, both making their debut in a Mercedes-Benz battery-electric van.
The permanent magnet synchronous motor (PSM), weighing just 286 lbs., stands out for its high efficiency and optimized thermal management. Available in power ratings of either 100 or 150 kilowatts peak output, it generates torque of up to 295 lb.-ft for at least 30 seconds.
The base eSprinter features a rear-wheel drive electric powertrain producing 134 horsepower, while a more potent 201-hp version is also offered. Positioned beneath the eSprinter between the front and rear axles is a 113.0-kWh battery pack.
Regardless of power output, the eSprinter is limited to a top speed of 75 miles per hour. Accelerating to this speed requires patience, especially when laden with cargo.
However, handling surpasses expectations for a vehicle of this size, with well-damped ride quality and restrained body roll. Testing indicates that with the more powerful motor, the eSprinter can reach 60 mph in 12.7 seconds, while opting for the entry-level 134-hp version may add several seconds to this time.
As noted above, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter posts approximately 273 miles (44,034 kilometers) of range per charge, based on the WLTP cycle.
There isn’t an official EPA range estimate for the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter just yet, but you can expect a ballpark range exceeding 230 miles on a full charge.
More so, the eSprinter’s advanced technology extends beyond just safety features. The all-new eSprinter offers three drive modes for customizable performance and energy efficiency.
The "Comfort" mode delivers full performance and torque, the "Economic" mode enhances efficiency by limiting engine power, and the "Maximum Range" mode further optimizes mileage by reducing engine output and controlling features like climate control.
Furthermore, the eSprinter’s regenerative braking (converting kinetic energy into electrical energy) technology also extends its range. The system has five recuperation levels (D-, D, D+, D++, and 'D Auto'), selected via paddles on the steering wheel. The 'D Auto' automatically adjusts energy recovery based on traffic conditions.
Also, the ECO Assist on the dashboard guides the driver on when to disengage the pedal, allowing the vehicle to select the appropriate recuperation level.
Further maximizing efficiency, the MercedesMe connect services, including optional "Navigation with Electric Intelligence," enhance the electric vehicle experience by calculating optimized routes with charging stops based on real-time traffic and route topography.
This feature also devises the most efficient charging strategy to reach your destination quickly.
The all-new eSprinter’s versatile charging options accommodate both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). Its on-board charger, capable of converting current during AC charging, has a maximum power of 9.6 kilowatts.
For faster charging, the eSprinter can utilize up to 1159 kilowatts at fast-charging stations, allowing a rapid charge from 10 to 80 percent capacity in just over 40 minutes with its 113 kWh battery.
The MercedesMe connect service facilitates convenient payment at charging stations via the Mercedes me Charge, which integrates various charging point operators into a unified network, including ChargePoint, Electrify America, and EVgo.
With access to over 85,000 public charging points nationwide, Mercedes me Charge stands as one of the largest integrated charging networks in the U.S.
This service offers transparency and control, enabling users to check availability and estimated costs of charging stations along their route, initiate charging sessions remotely, make payments through a single interface, and track charging and payment history.
Mercedes-Benz USA's collaboration with ChargePoint extends to fleet customers for convenient Fleet Depot Charging. This partnership offers specialized charging hardware, vehicle telematics, and software solutions tailored to specific fleets.
In other words, customers with multi-brand fleets can monitor all fleet operations seamlessly through a single interface.
The all-new eSprinter is now available for order at U.S. dealerships, starting from $71,866. Since leasing holds significant relevance in the battery-electric vehicle segment, with up to 80 percent of commercial Mercedes-Benz eVans leased globally, U.S. customers can lease the 2024 eSprinter cargo van (150 kW) with a monthly payment starting at $998 for 36 months, requiring $6,386 at lease signing.
The new eSprinter features a comprehensive service package aimed at minimizing total ownership costs and maximizing uptime.
It covers maintenance expenses for the first four services within the initial four years or up to 100,000 miles, following service booklet guidelines and manufacturer specifications. This includes thorough inspections of high-voltage components and other vehicle functions.
Mercedes-Benz offers a free battery certificate, ensuring, in addition to legal liability for material defects and the new vehicle warranty, a minimum remaining capacity of 70 percent for high-voltage batteries within eight years from delivery or initial registration or up to 100,000 total miles.
An optional battery certificate can extend this coverage by an extra 85,000 miles, totaling eight years or up to 185,000 miles.
In densely populated urban areas, there may be restrictions or fees imposed on vehicles with internal combustion engines to combat air pollution and congestion.
All-electric vans, with their clean operation, may be exempt from these restrictions or qualify for preferential treatment, providing businesses with greater access to city centers and potential cost savings.
The eSprinter produces significantly less noise compared to the gas-powered Sprinter. This can be advantageous for businesses operating in noise-sensitive areas or during early morning or late-night deliveries, minimizing disturbance to residents and improving overall community relations.
As governments worldwide implement stricter emissions standards and transition towards electrification, investing in all-electric vans like the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter ensures future compliance and minimizes the risk of obsolescence.