Mercedes-Benz Vans UK has introduced its first electric roadside assistance van, as part of a pilot project in London.
The eSprinter, based at the Marshall Van Croydon Dealership in south London, is kitted out in the same way as the diesel-engined roadside assistance vans and is now serving owners of Mercedes-Benz electric vans in the capital.
It is powered by a 114 hp electric motor that drives the front wheels, with a 55kW high-voltage battery pack securely mounted beneath the body.
This means the battery does not impinge on the space needed in the cargo area to provide the technician with a practical workspace, and allows the van to carry a full complement of equipment and parts.
The van will travel 95 miles on a single charge, which is ample for most urban delivery and last mile applications, as well as the majority of roadside call-outs attended by Marshall Van and other members of the Mercedes-Benz Vans network.
Simon Neill, Customer Operations Director, Mercedes-Benz Vans UK Ltd, said: “We’re really pleased to have added the first electric roadside assistance vehicle to the fleet of around 180 Service24h vans operating nationwide.
“The vision, on completion of this pilot, is to introduce more eSprinters to the fleet nationally where appropriate.”
