Sprinter goes down Electric Avenue
The Mercedes-Benz eSprinter has arrived in South Africa! The vehicle, which is available as a panel van in two body lengths with multiple battery options, is set to offer transport operators exceptional efficiency and high payloads, making it an ideal choice for businesses seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Global reach
The eSprinter has been available internationally for quite some time. Back in 2019 – on 12 December to be exact – the Mercedes-Benz Dusseldorf plant celebrated the van’s start of production. Since then, it has been launched in multiple countries. The company has high hopes for the electric van. In fact, Mercedes-Benz expects 20% of global Sprinter sales to be electric within two years. This will rise to 50% by 2030.
South Africa, here we come
Now the electric van has been launched in South Africa too. Exactly what can operators expect? Well, an impressive range for one. During recent tests, a pre-production model of the eSprinter, equipped with a 113kWh battery, completed a remarkable 475km on a single charge. For urban driving, simulations based on the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) city cycle suggest a potential range of up to 530km, making the eSprinter suitable for longer journeys as well as city commutes.
The eSprinter’s electrically driven rear axle offers substantial benefits, including various vehicle lengths, a maximum gross vehicle weight of up to 4.25 tonnes, and a towing capacity of up to 2 tonnes. It also boasts a generous load volume of up to 14m3. In South Africa, the eSprinter is available in two lengths. The standard wheelbase model comes with a 100kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PSM) and an 81kWh battery, while the long-wheelbase version offers either a 100kW or 150kW PSM, with battery options of 81 or 113kWh.
Safety to the fore
The eSprinter’s battery system is designed with both efficiency and safety in mind. Each battery module is encased in a crash-proof cover, and an advanced thermal management system with a heat pump is included as standard. This system not only optimises the range but also extends the life cycle of the high-voltage batteries. The lithium iron phosphate battery cells are free from cobalt and nickel, thanks to a new cell chemistry that prioritises sustainability.
There are lots of other safety features up for grabs too – including Active Brake Assist, Cross Wind Assist, Adaptive Brake Lights, and Intelligent Speed Assist with cruise control. Optional features such as a Reversing Camera, LED High-Performance Headlamps, and Active Lane Keeping Assist further enhance safety and convenience.
Recuperation system for optimised driving
As is typically the case with electric vehicles, the eSprinter features an advanced recuperation system, also known as regenerative braking, which recovers energy during overrun and braking. This process converts kinetic energy into electrical energy, recharging the battery while you drive. The intensity of this recuperation can be adjusted via shift paddles behind the steering wheel, allowing for a personalised driving experience. The new DAUTO automatic recuperation system further enhances efficiency by adapting the recuperation strength in real-time based on radar, camera, and navigation data.
Super-fast charging
Charging the eSprinter is straightforward and fast. It supports both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging, with the ability to charge at up to 115kW at a fast-charging station. At this rate, the 81kWh battery can be charged to 80% in approximately 32 minutes, while the larger 113kWh battery takes around 42 minutes to reach 80% charge.
Transforming the industry
Mercedes-Benz Vans SA maintains that the introduction of the eSprinter will change the transport industry.
“With the introduction of the new eSprinter, we are solidifying our position as leaders in electric drive technology. The new eSprinter redefines what an electric van can be. Its innovative design, robust technical features and exceptional efficiency make it the perfect choice for businesses looking to embrace locally-emission-free mobility without compromising on performance.
“By launching the premium eSprinter in the South African market, we aim to transform the industry, by reaffirming our commitment to delivering cutting-edge, sustainable solutions that meet the diverse needs of our esteemed customers,” says Marinus Venter, Head of Product, Marketing and Customer Services for Mercedes-Benz Vans SA.
The eSprinter is priced from R1,270,030.00.
