Mercedes-Benz eSprinter: towards the new release in the second half of 2023. Production network expanded

Mercedes-Benz Vans is about to launch the new eSprinter, the latest version of the large van with full electric powertrain. Efficiency, range and load capacity are supposed to be improved by Mercedes-Benz Vans compared to the current version. The new eSprinter will be marketed in North America and in Europe in the second half of 2023 as for the panel van version.

In addition, the German commercial vehicle manufacturer is about to expand production network, in order to meet the higher demands: in addition to the Mercedes-Benz plant in Düsseldorf, the new Mercedes-Benz eSprinter will also be produced in Ludwigsfelde and Charleston (South Carolina, USA) in the future. In total, Mercedes-Benz has invested around 350 million euros in the new eSprinter. Around 50 million euros will be invested in each of the three plants in Charleston, Düsseldorf and Ludwigsfelde to adapt their production.

Mercedes-Benz eSprinter: technical features

Talking about technical improvements, the front module, a uniformly designed front section, includes all high-voltage components and can be combined unchanged with all vehicle variants, regardless of wheelbase and battery size. The module for the integrated high-voltage battery is located in the underbody to save space. The battery location between the axles, together with the robust battery housing, results in a low centre of gravity, which has a positive influence on handling and increases driving safety. The third pillar of the modular design is the rear module with the electrically driven rear axle. Following the principle of the common parts strategy, this is used in all variants of the new eSprinter. The compact and powerful electric motor is also integrated into the rear module.

The market launch of the new eSprinter will begin in the USA and Canada in the second half of 2023. The vehicle is a long panel van with a high roof. It is equipped with the largest battery available, which has a usable capacity of 113 kilowatt hours. The load capacity is 14 cubic metres, the permissible gross vehicle weight is up to 4.25 tonnes. According to Mercedes-Benz Vans, the electric range, based on a simulation using the WLTP cycle, will be up to 400 km. The simulated range based on the WLTP city cycle will be up to 500 km.

Three different battery options

In Europe, this first variant of the panel van will be launched at the end of 2023, with the cab chassis variant and other battery variants gradually following. Customers can choose between three different batteries for the new Mercedes-Benz eSprinter, depending on their individual range and payload requirements: a battery with a usable capacity of 56, 81 or 113 kilowatt hours. Lithium/iron phosphate (LFP) cell chemistry allows the battery variants to be kept free of cobalt and nickel, while active thermal management ensures maximum efficiency.