New fleet-focused Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van revealed
Third-generation van gets a new look and systems to make fleet management easy, with deliveries starting in June
Mercedes-Benz Vans has showcased the next-generation Sprinter, which will be joined by an all-electric version next year.
The third-generation Sprinter gets fleet-friendly features such as internet connectivity to keep drivers in contact with fleet managers at all times through Mercedes’ new Pro Connect service.
This allows assignments to be managed online and all vehicle information such as location, fuel levels and maintenance schedules can be accessed easily. There will be eight packages available, including Vehicle Supervision, Vehicle Operations, Fleet Communication, Maintenance Management and a digital Driver’s Logbook.
A new front-wheel drive option is being offered alongside the traditional rear- and four-wheel drive choices. Mercedes says the new layout allows these models to carry 50kg more than rear-driven Sprinters, while the load area is 80mm lower, making it easier to put items in the back.
Front-wheel drive vans also come with the choice of two new transmissions in the form of a nine-speed automatic and six-speed manual.
The German firm says that an all-electric eSprinter will join the range in 2019 as part of its strategy to electrify its commercial van fleet, but has given no other information.
On the outside there’s new styling, with the most obvious change to the front of the van – the blocky headlights have been replaced by narrower units, while the bonnet protrudes more than the flat-nose design of previous models.
Inside, seat ‘ergonomics’ have been improved, as has the air conditioning system, while keyless start is now an option. Safety upgrades have also been fitted, including a self-cleaning reversing camera, 360-degree parking view and upgraded windscreen wiper system.
Volker Mornhinweg, head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, said: “The Sprinter continues to embody the traditional attributes that have made it so successful worldwide since its market launch – flexibility, robustness and economy.
“At the same time, it impresses with unrivalled modernity, for example with its connectivity and incomparable variability. This makes it the first end-to-end system solution for commercial fleets, both for Mercedes-Benz Vans and for the entire industry.”
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is available to order now, with deliveries beginning in June.
