The new electric eSprinter out-performs, undercuts Rivian’s cargo van

Enlarge / Mercedes-Benz has electrified its Sprinter van and given it more range than Ford's E-Transit or the Rivian Delivery Van. (credit: Tim Stevens)

There are plenty of ways for small businesses to celebrate their success. It might be a flashy new sign outside, a high-end furniture set inside, or an advertising campaign that they might never have imagined when they started up. But, for businesses literally on the move, the purchase of a first new van is definitely a major milestone. In 2024, the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter may become the new aspirational acquisition for many small businesses.

Lots of range and lots of space

The Sprinter has been on the US market for over 20 years since it began production at the Mercedes-Benz factory in Charleston, South Carolina. The new eSprinter marks the first time it has gone fully electric, and yes, that version will be assembled in America, too, augmented with a 113 kWh lithium ferro phosphate (LFP) battery pack powering a 134 hp (100 kW) or 201 hp (150 kW) motor driving only the rear wheels. Mercedes estimates a range of 273 miles (440 km) on the European WLTP cycle, which will probably mean somewhere around 250 miles (402 km) when tested with the US EPA cycle.

That battery pack is situated in the floor, between the frame rails, still making room for a cavernous, 488 cubic-foot (13,819 L) cargo compartment. At nearly 24 feet long (280 inches/7,112 mm), it's enough space to carry about a dozen pinball machines or an entire Jabba the Hutt, complete with all his cackling cronies.