ROAD TO ZERO | ROAD TEST
Mercedes-Benz has launched its second full electric LCV, the eSprinter, says Dan Gilkes.
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aving entered the mid-weight EV sector with the eVito, Mercedes-Benz is back to tackle the heavier end of the market, with the eSprinter. Available initially in a single L2H2 panel van model, the eSprinter is aimed at urban users and last-mile delivery companies, with a maximum range of up to 96 miles.
Powertrain The van is powered by a 55kWh battery, that drives the front wheels through an 85kW (114hp) electric motor. That motor delivers 295Nm of torque, which is enough for reasonably rapid acceleration, given the size of the van. However, unlike the big Merc’s namesake, the eSprinter is not about high-speed motorway cruising. Indeed, there are in fact three speed limiter settings on offer to customers, to control the right-foot urges of drivers. The standard van calls time at a theoreti12 VANUSER • MARCH 2021
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cal 75mph, but it is also possible to limit the van to 62mph, or even 50mph. It is perhaps worth mentioning that the promised range of up to 96 miles is only offered with the 50mph limiter. Let the van run at those higher speeds and the predicted range drops to around 83 miles. There are three driving modes to maximise range. C, or Comfort, offers full power and torque, with access to the heating and air conditioning system’s maximum output. Switch to E, for Economy and the power and torque delivery take a bit of a cut, while the air con output is also reduced. E+ takes that further, cutting the air-con almost totally. However, on a wet and windy January day it was almost impossible to use E+, as the windows soon become misted up without the ventilation working fully. Drivers can influence the range in other ways though. Paddles behind the steering wheel can be used to alter
the amount of brake energy recuperation. D- provides the most regenerative braking, enough in fact for the van to activate its brake lights as you lift off the throttle pedal. Click the righthand paddle once into D and you get less regen, providing similar levels of braking to a diesel Sprinter under engine overrun.
