MERCEDES-BENZ

Mercedes-Benz's latest EV is the eSprinter commercial van

Earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz revealed the 2020 EQV minivan. Essentially, it was an all-electric version of the V-Class minivan albeit with the internal combustion engine being ditched in favor of batteries and an electric powertrain. Interestingly, the exterior design looks like any V-Class on the road today.
If you happen to find the EQV a bit too small, the German marque now has a larger pure electric van to offer. Called the eSprinter, it is essentially a fully electric version of Mercedes’s large people/cargo carrier. It is also the latest addition to the brand’s electric commercial vehicle lineup. Better yet, it looks nearly identical as the one fitted with an internal combustion engine.
Similar to the EQV, the eSprinter is powered by a front-mounted electric motor producing 114 PS and 295 Nm of torque. It packs a 47kWh battery which gives the van a range of up to 168km. Now, you might say the range isn’t a lot when compared to other EVs. However, do remember the eSprinter is a big van intended for commercial use.



The battery is then charged within 6 hours with a 7.2 kW charger. Meanwhile, an 80kW quick charge facility can get the battery from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes. Top speed can be set at 80km/h, 100km/h, or 120 km/h.
Three drive modes are available to choose from "E+", "E" and "C". The programs can be selected via the drive program button on the center console. Depending on the mode, the eSprinter can either focus on comfort or efficiency.



Despite the addition of a lithium-ion battery pack, the eSprinter continues to share the same loading volume as the standard model together with an 891kg loading capacity. Sacrifice battery size by changing to a smaller unit, and loading capacity goes up to 1,045kg. However, the smaller 35kWh battery only has a range of 115km.



Other features for owners of the eSprinter include an eVan Ready app and an eCost Calculator that lets them see if an electric vehicle is suitable for their area of use.

by Jose Altoveros