The New Mercedes-Benz eSprinter: Electric Camper Van of the Future?

#Vanlife could be going electric sooner than you think.

Published August 30, 2023

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Mercedes-Benz is going electric by 2030. That means huge changes throughout the Mercedes lineup, including to the Sprinter van, which is a popular base vehicle for camper van upfitters. In that vein, Mercedes unveiled the new eSprinter electric van. It’s coming to America in one version: a long wheelbase, high-roof model with the largest battery pack.

Here’s what we know about it so far.

How much range does the eSprinter have?

The eSprinter uses a 113-kWh battery pack. Mercedes gives range figures of 248.5 miles and 311 miles for city driving. However, those figures come from WLTP testing, which is more generous to vehicles than the EPA methodology.

The eSprinter is capable of 115-kW fast charging, enough to power the vehicle from 10-80 percent in 42 minutes. To start, the range and charging time will probably be more amenable to fleet customers than camper van buyers.

Will the eSprinter have all-wheel-drive?

The AWD Sprinter platform is popular with camper van upfitters. But the eSprinter is RWD only to start. The eSprinter launches with two available power outputs, 134 hp and 201 hp.

How much will the Mercedes eSprinter cost?

The Mercedes eSprinter has a starting MSRP of $71,886. But there are a few caveats to that. That base price does not include a partition wall and a floor option, which buyers must select. It also excludes a hefty $2,295 destination and delivery charge.

The eSprinter will be assembled in South Carolina. Mercedes has not given pricing yet for the eSprinter. The price threshold for vans to receive the full $7,500 credit is $80,000. So, at least some base versions of the eSprinter should potentially be eligible to receive a $7,500 federal tax credit.

When will the eSprinter be available in America?

Now. Mercedes is currently accepting eSprinter orders at authorized U.S. dealerships.

Is the eSprinter the future camper van base vehicle?

Camper vans will go electric. But think more in the intermediate term (especially when improved battery tech allows them to offer more range).

Mercedes says, “all new models will be all-electric from 2025.” That leaves Mercedes room to slip one more update to the combustion Sprinter next year and continue selling it through 2029. And Ford may still sell gas-powered Transits beyond then.