Hello, eSprinter! Mercedes-Benz Starts Selling Electric-Only Van in America From $72K

The lithium/iron phosphate technology is deemed ideal for vehicles of this type due to its durability; the van’s recharging time is around three-quarters of an hour, from 10% to 80%, when using the optional 115 kW DC fast charging. As standard, the eSprinter’s AC charger is rated at 9.6 kW, and the DC charging power installed by default is 50 kW. The 240V, 32A wallbox charging time is roughly 12h30 min (from fully depleted to 100%).

The Mercedes utility vehicle offers three drive programs and five recuperation stages to make the most of its battery-electric driveline. Both functions optimize electrical consumption and range. One of the main features of the energy-saving algorithms of the eSprinter is the 'D Auto' function that adapts the energy recovery rate based on existing traffic conditions. A radar sensor adjusts the recuperation to ensure optimal results.

A dashboard indicator signals the driver when to lift the foot off the accelerator so the van can decide what amount of recovery to use. The three drive programs – eco, comfort, and max range – are also oriented toward the low-consumption goal. The cargo-carrying light vehicle has a permanent magnet synchronous motor that can be set to deliver either 100 or 150 kW (134/201 hp; 136/204 PS). Either way, the torque is level at 295 lb-ft (400 Nm). The 286-lb (130 kg) electric motor drives the rear axle only,

The van can be optioned with the AI-centered Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) that can be operated via Voice Control, touchscreen, and steering wheel touch control buttons. The software can learn and understand natural language and is activated by the "Hey Mercedes" vocal command.

Mercedes has fitted the electron-powered eSprinter with an optional "Electric Intelligence" navigation system that calculates the best available route in real-time, updating the range according to traffic data. The system also computes the optimal charging strategy: either reach a preset destination in the shortest time or arrive at a desired charge state for the battery.

To improve the efficiency of the air conditioning system and provide driver comfort, the van offers pre-entry climate control (activated via the ‘Mercedes me connect’ app, the MBUX, or the vehicle fob. The MaxComfort function manages the cabin temperature when the vehicle is parked, which is particularly beneficial for a multiple-stop routine when the driver frequently gets out of the van

There is also an advanced activation function in the app. The driver can set up a personalized profile, including daily and weekly departure times, so the climate control will get the right temperature in the cabin. For colder climates, a standard heated seat – and an optional heated steering wheel – make trips easier by providing a higher level of comfort right from the start.

The van is equipped with an HDR rearview camera mounted on the roof at the back of the eSprinter, and the video feed is sent to the digital rearview mirror in the cabin. Besides reflecting the image at the back of the van, the mirror also doubles as a display monitor for the camera, adjusting the brightness of the live feed according to ambient light.

The cargo bay's 488 cubic feet (13.81 cubic meters) can be organized as a mobile workshop with shelves, workbenches, and high-load-bearing heavy-duty floors. The maximum cargo capacity is 2,426 lbs. (1.2 tons), and the van’s top speed is 75 mph (121 kph). The 150 kW eSprinter is $75,316 - $3,430 more than the standard-output 100 kW version. The $2,295 destination and delivery charge is not included in the MSRP.

The eSprinter offers a battery certificate – included in the purchase price – of 8 years/100,000 miles (161,000 km). Still, the range can be extended with an add-on purchase to 185,000 miles (298,000 km). The maintenance package covers the costs of the first four years of servicing up to a maximum of 100,000 miles (161,000 km). Mercedes-Benz’s first all-new, all-electric van for the United States market is available for order at authorized U.S. dealerships.