Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa (MBVSA) has launched the fully electric Sprinter (eSprinter) panel van in the local market.

The eSprinter is available in standard- and long-wheel base, with pricing starting at R1.27-million.

The vehicle, imported from Germany, is available for direct purchase through Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

MBVSA spokesperson Beate Mey says the company offers “flexible options and comprehensive support for those customers transitioning to electric vehicles”.

“With the introduction of the new eSprinter, we are solidifying our position as leaders in electric drive technology,” adds MBVSA product, marketing and customer services head Marinus Venter.

Mercedes-Benz already offers electric cars and trucks in the local market.

The eSprinter panel van is built as a tri-modular concept – a front module housing all high-voltage components, a space-saving underbody battery module (which also gives the van a low centre of gravity), and a rear module containing the electric motor.

MBVSA says simulations show that a range of up to 530 km is possible for journeys in urban areas before recharging is required.

Maximum gross vehicle weight is up to 4.25 t, towing capacity can reach 2 t, and load volume can go up to 14 m³.

The standard wheelbase vehicle is available with a 100 kW permanent magnet synchronous motor (PSM), and an 81 kWh battery.

The long wheelbase is available with either a 100 kW or 150 kW PSM, and an 81 kWh battery or 113 kWh battery, respectively.

The two different battery sizes offer customers flexibility in terms of range and payload, depending on their individual requirements, says Venter.

All battery modules contain a crash-proof cover. The temperature of the batteries is controlled by a thermal-management system with a heat pump as standard.

This ensures an optimised range and lifecycle on the batteries, notes Venter.

The eSprinter’s battery cells are made of lithium-iron-phosphate, which means all of the batteries are cobalt- and nickel-free.

Recuperation in the eSprinter, also known as regenerative braking, is a process which allows energy recovery during overrun and braking.

This means that when the panel van slows down, the electric motor acts as a generator, converting kinetic energy back into electrical energy to recharge the battery.

The intensity of the recuperation can be adjusted via shift paddles behind the steering wheel.

A DAUTO automatic recuperation system also networks information from the radar, camera and navigation data, adapting the strength of the recuperation to driving conditions, automatically and in real time.

In addition, a system called ECO Assist can support anticipatory driving. This system analyses if there is a vehicle ahead, what the speed limit is, or whether the vehicle is approaching an incline, and indicates in the instrument cluster when the driver should decelerate.

Depending on the situation, it selects the appropriate recuperation strength.

Three drive modes also help the driver choose between maximum comfort or maximum range.

The eSprinter is capable of alternating current and direct current charging.

At the maximum charge rate of 115 kW, the eSprinter’s 81 kWh battery can charge to 80% in around 32 minutes, while the 113 kWh battery needs around 42 minutes to charge to 80%.

The eSprinter is fitted with numerous safety assistance systems, including active brake assist, crosswind assist, adaptive brake lights and intelligent speed assist with cruise control.

Optional equipment includes a reversing camera and active lane-keeping assist.

Electric Minibus Taxi?
Mey says the eSprinter is currently only available as a panel van and cannot be converted into a people carrier.

The vehicle can, however, be modified for various industrial and commercial uses within the panel van market.

“The sidewalls are available for modifications, allowing for the installation of shelving and other features using the load rails.

“Additionally, the ceiling mounting points can also be utilised for further customisations, providing flexibility for cargo-carrying purposes.”