Mercedes Reports Sprinter Sales Up 94% for 2011

Sales of Sprinter vans increased 94% for calendar year 2011, according to a press release from Mercedes-Benz. In only its second year of operation, Daimler Vans USA and its combined network of both Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter dealers achieved a total of 16,577 vans sold, far surpassing the 2010 result of 8,559. The Mercedes-Benz network alone saw an increase of 172%.

“Our strong, diverse network of 185 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner commercial van dealers spread across the U.S. has enjoyed a banner year of Sprinter van sales. From large fleet operators to small construction businesses and mom-and-pop food trucks, American consumers are discovering the incredible benefits of Sprinter vans,” said Claus Tritt, general manager of commercial vans for Mercedes-Benz USA.

The Sprinter platform has also seen growth over the years in the RV industry as a number of manufacturers have built Class A, B and C motorhomes on Sprinter chassis since 2001.

Powered by a 3.0-liter BlueTEC diesel engine, the Sprinter has best-in-class cargo capacity of up to 547 cubic feet and payload capacity up to 5,358 pounds. With cargo doors that open a full 270 degrees, the Sprinter also boasts a rear door opening that’s 5 feet 2 inches wide and 6-feet tall. Both the Cargo and Passenger Vans feature a side-door opening that’s 4 feet 3 inches wide and 6-feet high.

At the same time, their step-in height is only 19.9 inches – lowest in the industry. All versions are equipped with a number of Mercedes-Benz safety features — ESP stability and rollover control, ABS anti-lock brakes, Brake Assist and traction control. The driver and front passenger seats are equipped with standard multi-stage front air bags, and side curtain and torso air bags are optionally available.

 

Daimler Vans Debuts Fourth Sprinter Chassis

Daimler Vans USA recently added a shuttle van to the imported Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van lineup that includes chassis for Class A, B and C motorhomes.

The 2010 Sprinter model lineup also includes a cargo van, passenger van and cab chassis – all of which are powered by a 188-hp 3.0-liter Mercedes-Benz diesel engine that utilizes Daimler AG’s BlueTEC technology to reduce emissions.

Claus Tritt, vice president of operations for Daimler Vans USA, introduced the new model at the company’s Ladson, S.C., factory in a press event attended by MotorHome staffer Patricia Marroquin.

Daimler is rebranding the Sprinter as a Mercedes-Benz product after cutting ties earlier this year with the Dodge division of Chrysler LLC. Sprinters also are sold through Freightliner Trucks North America LLC dealers.

Equipped with many Mercedes-Benz safety and convenience features, the Sprinter shuttle van can seat up to 16 passengers.

The low-floor shuttle van has four seating configurations based on use.

Tritt pointed out that the Sprinter has an interior height of 6 feet, 4 inches and a 54.6 degree turning radius — both of which he noted are ”best of class.”

He said the Sprinter combines Mercedes-Benz design themes with commercial vehicle characteristics. “We brought sexy back to the commercial vehicle market,” he said.

Tritt said that 13 American upfitters, including Winnebago Industries Inc., Forest River Inc., Airstream Inc., Four Winds International Corp., Monaco RV LLC and Fleetwood RV build motorhomes on Sprinter chassis with GVWRs ranging from 9,900 pound to 11,030 pounds.

Sprinters, sold in the U.S. since 2001, are available through 117 Sprinter dealers, and the network is growing, Tritt said.