EVM has confirmed that it will be able to deliver vehicles based on the existing Mercedes-Benz Sprinter at 5,000kg GVW into 2019, assuaging concerns that the move to the new model Sprinter may lead to chassis supply issues.
“We became aware of a possible shortage in Q3 2017 and we have worked with Mercedes-Benz UK to secure sufficient chassis to see us through until February 2019,” says Director Danny McGee.
EVM has stock Sprinters with both the four-cylinder and the V6 engines. Most have the 7G-Tronic automatic gearbox but a small number are manuals.
They can be converted to Avantgarde, Elegance and X-Clusive minicoaches and the City Line and Community low-floor minibuses. Additionally, supply of the coachbuilt Grand Tourer is also secure into 2019, says Mr McGee.
“What gives comfort in having so much current stock available with a model change pending is that the new Sprinter is more about connectivity and a frontal restyle. The basis of the vehicle is the same,” he adds.
“There is no doubt that the new Sprinter will be ground-breaking, but it will also come with a price increase. That is expected to be in the region of 4-5%.”