Mercedes-Benz has revealed the third generation of its Sprinter van, which is available for delivery from June this year.
Amongst the enhancements in this new model, Mercedes-Benz claims the van’s comfort and safety is comparable with a passenger car, as well as lower operating costs and more convenient fleet management features.
Mercedes PRO connect is an internet-enabled suite of systems linking individual vehicles with fleet managers, with eight different packages to suit the individual needs. These can include Vehicle Supervision, Fleet Communication, Maintenance Management and a digital Driver’s Logbook.
Mercedes-Benz also claims 1,700 different versions can be configured thanks to the range of available body types, drivetrains, cabs, body lengths and equipment ranges. New for the third-generation of the Sprinter is a front-wheel-drive option for the first time in addition to rear-wheel- and all-wheel-drive options, with a choice of two new transmissions for the former.
The interior benefits from re-designed seats, keyless start and a revised air conditioning system, while the available safety systems range from a self-cleaning reversing camera to Lane Keeping Assist and Active Distance Control, which can maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front in stop and start traffic.
In respect of payload the long wheelbase high roof version offers a maximum load capacity of 17 cubic metres, while the 5.5 tonne GVW version offers a payload of 3150kg. A loading sill lowered by 80mm and a door height increased by the same amount makes for easier loading and unloading, while the rear suspension springs can be optionally replaced with glassfibre-reinforced versions to reduce overall weight.
