By Bitwave 
Mercedes-Benz’s Electric eSprinter Arrives in North America
In a significant move, Mercedes-Benz has announced that its eagerly anticipated battery-electric eSprinter will finally be available in the United States and Canada. Production is set to begin in the second half of 2023 at the company’s factory in Charleston, South Carolina.
A Cargo Van for Commercial Customers, but also Boondockers?
While the eSprinter is primarily designed as a cargo van for commercial customers, its versatility and capabilities may make it appealing to outdoor enthusiasts who live on wheels. With its spacious interior and robust features, the eSprinter has the potential to become a popular choice among those who value freedom and adventure.
A Module Approach for Maximum Freedom
Mercedes-Benz invested approximately €350 million in developing the new eSprinter, adopting a module-based approach that allows for greater flexibility and customization. This strategy enables the company to cater to diverse customer needs and preferences across various regions.
Limited Options for North American Customers (Initially)
When the eSprinter arrives in the US and Canada, customers will have a limited choice of variants. The initial model will be a long cargo van with a high roof and a 113 kilowatt-hour battery, which is the largest battery size offered by Mercedes-Benz. In contrast, European markets will have access to different variants, including those with smaller batteries.
Modular Design for Efficient Production
The eSprinter’s modular design consists of three key components:
- Battery Module: The 113 kWh battery is located under the floor between the axles, providing a low center of gravity and enhanced stability.
- Electric Powertrain: A new permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) with a peak output of 100 or 150 kW delivers a maximum torque of up to 400 Nm (or approximately 295 pound-feet).
- Rear Axle Module: The electrically driven rear axle is located in the rear section, and will be used across all variants.
Impressive Specifications
The eSprinter boasts an impressive range of features, including:
- Load capacity: 488 cubic feet
- Gross vehicle weight: 4.25 tons
- Estimated range (under Europe’s WLTP standard): over 400 miles
Potential Impact on the Transportation Industry
As electric vehicles continue to gain traction in the transportation sector, Mercedes-Benz’s eSprinter is poised to make a significant contribution. With its exceptional range and versatility, this vehicle may appeal to a wide range of customers, from commercial fleets to outdoor enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The arrival of the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter in North America marks an exciting milestone for the company and the transportation industry as a whole. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, it will be fascinating to see how this new model is received by customers and how it shapes the future of transportation.
About the Author
Kirsten Korosec is a reporter and editor who has covered the future of transportation from EVs and autonomous vehicles to urban air mobility and in-car tech for more than a decade. She is currently the transportation editor at TechCrunch, co-hosting the Equity podcast, and co-founder of The Autonocast.
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