Mercedes launches new-gen eSprinter with up to 400 km range

Mercedes-Benz has given the electric version of its large Sprinter van a complete technical overhaul, resulting in a driving range of up to 400 km while maintaining a large cargo space and towing capacity. The new eSprinter is set to arrive in Europe toward the end of 2023.

Mercedes-Benz already builds an eSprinter, but with a range of only 142 km thanks to a 47 kWh battery and an electric motor that only outputs 85 kW (116 hp), the current-gen eSprinter has fallen quite behind compared to rivals such as the Ford E-Transit and the Maxus eDeliver9.

High-voltage, battery, and e-motor

This new eSprinter features an all-new electric drivetrain based on three modules: the front module with all the high-voltage components, the battery module in the middle, which has three different variants, and the powered rear axle as the third module, which integrates the e-motor.

The permanent magnet synchronous electric motor in the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter has a peak power output of 100 kW (136 hp) or 150 kW (204 hp), with maximum torque rated at 400 Nm. This gives the eSprinter enough grunt to sustain up to 4,25 ton GVW and a maximum trailer load of 2 tons.

Supplying the energy to the e-motor is a lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery pack with 56, 81, or 113 kWh capacity. The largest pack gives the eSprinter an estimated WLTP range of 400 km; presumably, the two smaller packs will yield a range of around 200 and 300 km, respectively.

AC charging is available up to 11 kW, and DC fast charging is possible up to 115 kW, which charges the smallest battery pack to 80% in 28 minutes. The 113 kWh pack takes 42 minutes for the same charge level.

Four variants but no payload yet

The new Mercedes-Benz eSprinter will be available in two lengths (L2 and L3) – a high roof is standard – and two body styles: closed panel van or chassis-cab. No payload figures have yet been given, but the old model managed up to 924 kg on a 3,5 t GVW, although it had a much smaller battery.

The new eSprinter will initially be built in the Düsseldorf factory, but the Ludwigsfelde and Charleston (USA) plants will also build the eSprinter in the future. The first models will arrive in the US and Canada in the second half of 2023; Europe will follow by the end of 2023.

Finally, it has to be noted that this eSprinter will likely be (one of) the last electric vans following the ‘traditional’ recipe of converting a combustion-powered van to an electric drivetrain. As of 2025, Mercedes will launch a new, purpose-built electric van architecture called VAN.EA. All new Mercedes vans from that point on will be fully electric.