Mercedes-Benz Vans tests all of its electric vans in extreme climatic conditions such as snowy and icy roadways, in cutting winds, and temperatures up to minus 30 degrees. These are real endurance tests both for the vehicle and the team of developers.
At the challenging testing grounds at Sweden's Arjeplog, close to the Arctic Circle, vehicles undergo various tests in which the effects of extreme cold on handling, ergonomics, thermal management and cabin comfort are examined. The low-temperature resistance of drive components, heating systems, software and interfaces are tested in specifically built cold chambers, where the vehicles are cooled down before the test drives. Also the charging behaviour and charging management are examined and optimised precisely.
After only half of several weeks of planned tests, it became clear that the next generation eSprinter defies both ice and snow, extreme temperatures, and can cope with the most challenging test cycles.
What is required of the next generation eSprinter was defined in close co-operation with customers, e.g. from the CEP sector (courier, express and parcel services) and bodybuilders. With its three battery versions and numerous body variants – from the panel van to the chassis for box bodies- the next generation eSprinter will open up new customer segments and new markets such as the U.S. and Canada, for example. Moreover, in comparison with the current eSprinter, the range will be more than double depending on the configuration.
The next generation eSprinter is to start successively, beginning in the second half of 2023 in Charleston (South Carolina, USA) and then in Germany's Duesseldorf and Ludwigsfelde.
Mercedes‑Benz has invested around 350 million euros in the next generation eSprinter. In addition, approximately 50 million euros has been invested in adapting the production in the three plants.
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