Mercedes-Benz Vans is offering a staggering number
of configuration options for the new Sprinter, and we’ve seen most of those
already.
What we hadn’t seen until now is the electric
version, which the German manufacturer has now detailed in full. The eSprinter
adopts the same electric powertrain as the smaller eVito electric van. The
motor produces the equivalent of 107 Hp and 300 Nm of torque. But the bigger van will be offered with a choice of two battery
options.
The 41 kWh option is the same as offered in the
eVito, enabling a range of up to 115 km on a single charge. But
there’s a larger 55 kWh battery pack on offer as well, which can go for 150 km between charges.
Since the bigger battery is heavier, it also
reduces the vehicle’s payload capacity: from 1,040 kg with the
41 kWh unit to 900 kg with the 55 kWh battery. Either model can charge up in six to eight hours
with the on-board 7.2-kW charger, or just 45 minutes using an installed DC
Combo charger.
Of course, none of those specs will rival a Tesla
Model S or a Nissan Leaf for range or performance. Then again, neither of them
can haul what the Sprinter can. In fact, the panel van fitted with the high
roof can accommodate up to 371 cubic feet (10.5 cubic meters) of “stuff”. So in
theory at least, based on even the 55-kWh version’s volume and payload
capacity, you could haul a Smart Fortwo in the back.
