Mercedes Benz South Africa to launch electric eSprinter panel van in 2024

German automaker Mercedes Benz South Africa has made an announcement that it will launch a full electric Sprinter next year.

Mercedes Benz South Africa’s president Nadia Trimmel said they will introduce the battery electric Sprinter panel van (eSprinter) to 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,” said 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.”

In a statement to the media, MBSA said it envisaged that the market launch of the new eSprinter will begin in the United States and Canada in the second half of this year.

The vehicle is a long panel van with a high roof and it comes equipped with the largest battery available, which has a usable capacity of 113 kWh.

While it is mostly used as a mini bus in the local market, MBSA spokesperson Beate Mey said they will first launch the panel van version before considering converting it into minibus taxis at the East London plant.

“We will first only be launching the panel van version of the eSprinter,” added 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.”

Taking a glance at specifications, the panel van has a 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 the European market, the van will be unveiled at the end of 2023, with the cab chassis variant and other battery variants following gradually.