- Mercedes eSprinter 2.0 review (prototype)
- eSprinter production
- North Charleston plant
- New eSprinter concludes winter testing
- 2023 Mercedes eSprinter FAQs
- What is the 2023 Mercedes eSprinter release date?
- Which are the competitors of the next-gen eSprinter?
- What is the expected 2023 Mercedes eSprinter price?
The Mercedes eSprinter is set to enter a new generation. The eSprinter 2.0, based on Daimler’s newly developed Electric Versatility Platform, is set for launch in the second half of 2023. The electric van will be manufactured at North Charleston in South Carolina, Dusseldorf, and Ludwigsfelde in Germany. Here’s everything we know on the 2023 Mercedes eSprinter.
Specifications
Mercedes-Benz developed the Electric Versatility Platform to create more customer value regarding range and the vehicle’s abilities. Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, said in 2020 that the company has initiated many innovations in recent years and has accelerated its electrification strategy by combining both its innovation and expertise. Requirements for the next generation eSprinter were defined after engaging with the CEP sector (courier, express and parcel services) and bodybuilders.
The 2023 Mercedes eSprinter would spawn multiple body styles to be suitable for a variety of commercial requirements. Image: Mercedes-Benz
Detailed specifications have not been released yet. However, the official images released suggest that the 2023 Mercedes eSprinter will be rear-wheel-drive and may get three battery options. The current model gets two battery options in Europe (35 kWh and 47 kWh). Other high voltage components will be front-mounted, opening up maximum room at the rear for cargo and improved flexibility.
Mercedes-Benz has stated in a press release that the eSprinter 2.0’s range would be more than double the range of the current model, depending on the variant. According to the German website, the current generation model has a WLTP range between 57-75 miles with the 35 kWh (usable) battery and 80-98 miles with the 47 kWh battery. Power and torque figures are relatively modest at 116 hp and 295 Nm. Expect the 2023 Mercedes eSprinter range figures at 150-200 miles for the higher configurations.
Depending on the task, the top speed of the current Mercedes eSprinter is configurable to 50 mph, 61 mph, and 76 mph (80 kmph, 100 kmph, and 120 kmph). Expect this to be more or similar in the incoming model.
Mercedes eSprinter 2.0 review (prototype)
Cnet has published a review of an early next-gen Mercedes eSprinter prototype. The Cnet journalist rode shotgun with a Mercedes-Benz engineer and stated that the electric van had felt smooth. As the vehicle was empty, the ride quality was stiff, but that would even out once there’s cargo loaded up on the deck. According to the publication, the eSprinter 2.0 prototype, which didn’t carry any cargo at the time of the test, felt quick and built up speeds effortlessly.
Not only would be the new eSprinter more capable underneath, but it will also be more connected and modern in terms of features. The electric van will come with Mercedes’ latest MBUX system with smartphone connectivity and possibly even OTA capability. Additionally, according to the publication, the new van’s charging port would be neatly hidden behind the front three-pointed star.
eSprinter production
The eSprinter was not sold in North America previously, but that will change with the new generation model when it arrives in 2023. Mercedes-Benz has committed close to USD 350 million for the next-generation van, indicating how important the product is for the future. When the model launches in the USA, it will compete with the Ford e-Transit and upcoming electric vans like the Ram ProMaster EV, Rivian Amazon Prime Van, and the Brightdrop Zevo 600.
The 2023 eSprinter would have double the range of the 2019 model that’s pictured here. Image: Mercedes-Benz
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, explained that next-gen eSprinter’s production in the U.S. and Germany ensured market-oriented production. He added that the newly developed Electric Versatility Platform helps the company significantly expand its offerings in the commercial series.
North Charleston plant
The North Charleston plant in the U.S. has produced over 200,000 gas-powered Sprinter and Metris vans. The facility was previously a semi-knockdown plant, and it was expanded into a full-scale production plant in 2015, adding a new body shop, paint shop, and extended assembly building. Three years and EUR 500 million later, the new plant was ready in 2018, just in time for the launch of the new Sprinter.
The Charleston plant would be the first to produce the next-gen eSprinter, stated Ingo Ettischer, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans Global Operations, mentioned in a press release in August 2021. The production is set to start in the second half of 2023, and an investment of EUR 50 million will be made into the plant to optimize it for electric vehicle production.
New eSprinter concludes winter testing
Following weeks of testing in the harsh climate and on tricky terrain, Mercedes says the next-generation eSprinter defies ice, snow, and extreme temperatures. Image: Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes concluded winter testing of the new eSprinter in Arjeplog, Sweden, in February 2022. The premium electric van was subjected to temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius (-22 degrees Fahrenheit). Mercedes engineers worked on handling, ergonomics, thermal management, and cabin comfort to make it market-ready. Mercedes says the drive components were fine-tuned and charging behavior optimized.
Mercedes-Benz has stated that all new vehicle architectures from 2025 will be purely electric, and the brand will roll out an electric architecture christened VAN.EA for its future electric vans.
2023 Mercedes eSprinter FAQs
What is the 2023 Mercedes eSprinter release date?
Mercedes Vans has confirmed the production launch for the second half of 2023 in the U.S.
Which are the competitors of the next-gen eSprinter?
The Ram Promaster electric, Brightdrop Zevo 600, Rivian EDV 700 and the Ford e-Transit could be some of its rivals.
What is the expected 2023 Mercedes eSprinter price?
Expect the premium electric van to start at around USD 50,000 in the U.S.
Featured Image Source: Mercedes-Benz
Keyword: 2023 Mercedes eSprinter (Electric): Everything we know