Mercedes-Benz has signalled the introduction of electric drivelines to the vehicles that are used as the basis of its small PCVs, with a zero-emission eSprinter to debut in 2019.
Although all of the Mercedes-Benz van range will be offered with electric powerpacks – the eVito will be the first to market, later this year – the manufacturer says that there is no one-size-fits-all driveline strategy.
Instead, it will pursue what it describes as “the individual adaptation of operating concepts to meet sector needs, fleet size and driving profile, as well as the structural prerequisites for creating a dedicated charging infrastructure in depots.”
Financing will form part of the eSprinter package and dealerships will be au fait with zero emissions, it adds. Driver training will also be offered and the vehicles will provide information on their charge status and range in real-time.
“In 2019 with the eSprinter, Mercedes-Benz will offer versatile and flexible base electric vehicles that can be adapted in their range… and to suit their specific usage scenarios,” says Mercedes-Benz, and it makes particular reference to passenger-carrying applications.
No information has been released on pricing, weight or range, but Mercedes-Benz says it will invest a further €150m in the electrification of its light commercial line-up over coming years.
