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Mercedes-Benz has reached a significant milestone in its storied history, producing its five millionth Sprinter van. This landmark vehicle, an all-electric eSprinter, was assembled at the company’s Charleston, South Carolina facility and delivered to FedEx, a long-time customer. The event not only celebrates three decades of the Sprinter’s success but also highlights the growing importance of electric vehicles in the commercial sector.
Key Highlights
- Mercedes-Benz produces its five millionth Sprinter van.
- The milestone vehicle is an all-electric eSprinter.
- It was assembled at the Charleston, South Carolina plant.
- The van was handed over to FedEx, a major fleet customer.
- The Sprinter has been in production for 30 years.
- The Charleston plant has been crucial for the North American market.
- FedEx uses Sprinters for last-mile delivery services globally.
- The Sprinter has evolved over three generations, introducing new technologies and features.
A Milestone of Success
The production of the five millionth Sprinter is a testament to the model’s enduring popularity and versatility. Since its debut in 1995, the Sprinter has become a staple in the commercial van segment, known for its reliability, safety features, and adaptability to various industries. The choice of an all-electric eSprinter for this milestone underscores Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions. FedEx, a global logistics leader, has been a key partner in this journey, utilizing Sprinters for their delivery services worldwide. “As our network has evolved and grown over the years, vans from Mercedes-Benz, including the Sprinter and now the eSprinter, have been there to meet our needs,” said Pat Donlon, Vice President of Global Vehicles at FedEx. The addition of the eSprinter to their fleet aligns with FedEx’s goal of achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2040.
The Charleston Plant’s Role
Established in 2006, the Charleston facility has been instrumental in meeting the growing demand for Sprinters in North America. In 2018, the plant underwent a significant expansion to accommodate the production of the third-generation Sprinter, including the addition of a new body shop, paint shop, and extended assembly area. This investment allowed Mercedes-Benz to perform part-by-part assembly for the North American market, ensuring that the vehicles meet the specific needs of customers in the region. A $50 million investment in 2024 further supported the launch of the eSprinter production, marking another step in the plant’s evolution.
Three Decades of Innovation
The Sprinter’s journey began in 1995, replacing the Mercedes TN (T1) series. It quickly set new standards in the light commercial vehicle segment with its advanced safety features, aerodynamic design, and efficient engines. The second generation, launched in 2006, offered increased cargo capacity, a more spacious cabin, and a wider range of body styles, catering to diverse customer needs. The third generation, introduced in 2018, brought state-of-the-art technology, including the MBUX multimedia system, advanced telematics, and driving-assistance features, transforming the Sprinter into a mobile office. Over the years, the Sprinter has been adapted for various uses, from delivery services to camper-van conversions, solidifying its reputation as a versatile and reliable vehicle.
Looking Ahead
With the introduction of the all-electric eSprinter, Mercedes-Benz is paving the way for the future of commercial transport. The eSprinter offers zero-emission mobility without compromising on performance or functionality, making it an ideal choice for urban delivery services and environmentally conscious businesses. Produced in Charleston, as well as in Düsseldorf and Ludwigsfelde in Germany, the eSprinter is set to redefine the standards of sustainability in the van segment. “This milestone reflects the dedication of our teams, the trust of our customers, and the continuous evolution of a vehicle that has defined the large van segment for three decades,” remarked Thomas Klein, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. As Mercedes-Benz continues to innovate, the Sprinter remains at the forefront of the industry.
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