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Mercedes-Benz launches next-gen Sprinter in SA

 • South African customers benefit from Daimler’s third generation Sprinter investment 

 • Transition from a vehicle to a complete transport and mobility solution 

 • Set to live up to its claim of: “100% For You” 

 • Increased safety levels 

 • Enhanced Sprinter Inkanyezi Taxi specification

 • Most versatile large van available  

 • Enhanced engine and driving performance 

 • All -new 3.49 tonne variant

 • Improved Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

With the launch of its third-generation Sprinter, Mercedes-Benz has taken a €2.5-billion worldwide investment in its van's  development, production network, sales and after-sales support.

Configured either as a panel van, people carrier or freight carrier, the Sprinter offers a number of variants for countless industries. These include taxi, trade, service and logistics, as well as other applications in the form of mobile homes and speciality conversions. 

The Sprinter offers customers in a diverse range of industries, more customisable applications than ever before. It is available locally in a number of variants – depending on body length, payload, cargo space, roof heights and equipment options.

The variety of seating configurations offered, also makes it easily the most versatile large van in the country. Maximum cargo volume is up to 15.5 cubic metres, with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of up to 5.5 tonnes.  

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Inkanyezi legacy continues with the new Sprinter, as the taxi that dominates the long distance market and is set to cater to the needs of the everyday commuter, even more precisely than before. The new Sprinter Inkanyezi conversion comes in three different grades, with options ranging from the basics like three-point safety belts on every seat, through to USB ports (type-A) in the rear, free flow rear air conditioner, rear speakers and many more customer required additions, including an electric sliding door at the top end.

2018, The new Sprinter, Launch Campaign, Intellige

                                                                                              Image: Motorpress

Upgraded engine, smoother gear shifts

The well-proven and trusted 2.2 litre, four-cylinder Mercedes-Benz OM651 diesel engine is once again called on to deliver the power, performance and efficiency expected, with two output levels - 84kW and 120kW.

The economical 84kW engine offers 300Nm of torque and is the perfect entry-level solution for businesses in the ever increasing courier express and parcel segment.

In the new Sprinter, the 120kW variant - with 380Nm of torque - benefits from an increase of 10kW as compared to its predecessor.

For more demanding applications, the three-litre, six-cylinder OM642 is the perfect engine. Delivering a punchy 140kW and 440Nm, it ensures there is not much that the new Sprinter cannot do.

Increased safety

Mercedes-Benz Vans also raises the large van segment to a new level where safety features are concerned. The standard assistance systems available for the new Sprinter include Cross Wind Assist - which makes van journeys considerably safer, especially in adverse conditions on any terrain - and Hill Start Assist, which makes it easier to start up hills from a stationary position.

The list of optional features is extensive, making the Sprinter one of the safest large vans on South African roads. These include DISTRONIC, Lane Keeping Assist, a reversing camera showing its image in the rear-view mirror and a Parking Package with 360-degree camera that makes another important contribution to improving driver precision. Another new optional feature is Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC - this system takes a lot of work away from the driver and automatically regulates the distance from the vehicle ahead. In the event of the vehicle in front decreasing speed, the system will slow the vehicle down up to a complete stop.

2018, The new Sprinter, Launch Campaign, Intellige

                                                                               Image: Motorpress

A rain sensor and wiper with an integrated wet wiper system, also ensures optimum visibility even during the wiping process.

Active Brake Assist (ABA) is perhaps the most important highlight, as the system aims to reduce road traffic accidents. In an emergency situation, ABA warns the driver of the oncoming danger, and depending on the distance and size of the obstacle ahead, sends out an acoustic or visual warning to alert the driver.

All-new 3.49 tonne variant

There are various customer segments and applications that pose various challenges, and the Sprinter is always poised to provide a number of solutions. With the new 3.49 tonne GVM Sprinter, the vehicle allows drivers with a Code 8/Code B licence to pilot the commercial vehicle.With the introduction of the new 3.49 tonne GVM Sprinter, Mercedes-Benz Vans is giving customers who previously could not drive this exceptional vehicle - due to licence or weight restrictions - a great transport and business solution.

Superior comfort for passengers

The interior concept of the new Sprinter is tailored to passenger needs, boasting features including wireless charging facilities and USB ports (Type-C in the front) for uninterrupted connectivity. 

Various stowage compartments ensure that everything has its place, resulting in the driver and co-driver being able to perform their duties efficiently and consistently. MBUX multimedia system with touchscreen and voice control Furthermore, the new MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system is available in the new Sprinter. Thanks to artificial intelligence, the system is intuitive and offers two options: a 7" and 10.25" display screen with HD resolution, both controlled either with touch-enabled steering wheel controls, or an all-new voice control system.

They offer the driver maximum convenience to allow for ultimate focus on the road.This makes the Sprinter an integral part of the value chain, unlocking a new dimension in terms of efficiency, flexibility, connectivity and profitability for customers across various industries.

2018, The new Sprinter, Launch Campaign, Intellige

                                                                                               Image: Motorpress

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