Mercedes-Benz Vans SA to launch electric Sprinter by 2024, minibus set to follow

3rd March 2023 By: Irma Venter - Creamer Media Senior Deputy Editor

Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa will introduce the battery electric Sprinter panel van (eSprinter) on the local market in 2024.

“As we embark on a new era of sustainable mobility, we are proud to announce that the eSprinter will arrive in South Africa by 2024,” says Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa president Nadia Trimmel.

“This vehicle will offer a game-changing solution for businesses and individuals looking for a cost-effective, environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

“This marks a significant milestone in our commitment to creating a more sustainable future for all.”

The market launch of the German manufacturer’s new eSprinter will begin in the US and Canada in the second half of this year.

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 kWh.

The load capacity is 14 m3, with a permissible gross vehicle weight of up to 4.25 t.

The range will be between 400 km and 500 km, but this is dependent on driving behaviour and conditions.

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 following gradually.

Considering the fact that the current Sprinter panel van is converted into minibus taxis at the Mercedes-Benz plant in East London, will this also be the case with the new eSprinter?

“We will first only be launching the panel van version of the eSprinter,” says Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa spokesperson Beate Mey.

“However, we do aim to lead in electric drive and digital experience.

“Therefore, introducing an electric minibus is an integral part of this strategy. However, the details around it are not available at this time.”

The Sprinter minibus taxi in its current form is especially popular among long-distance minibus taxi operators.