Mercedes-Benz underscored Feb. 7 that its Sprinter van and work truck models are heading to a more electrified future as it ramps up production and rollouts in North America and Europe.

The market launch of the new eSprinter, which is long-panel van with a high roof, will begin in the U.S. and Canada in the second half of 2023.

Mercedes-Benz released key details of the eSprinter in its announcement:

• Battery capacity: Out of three battery choices, the largest, a 113kWh battery, has an estimated range of 248 miles on the highway and 311 miles in the city, based on Europe’s Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) standard. (The U.S. EPA has yet to rate the vehicle.)

• Battery type: Lithium/iron phosphate (LFP) cell chemistry, which allows the battery variants to be free of cobalt and nickel, while active thermal management ensures maximum efficiency.

• Charging: For fleets, fast charging from 10% to 80% of full capacity in 28 minutes with the 56 kWh battery; about 42 minutes for the 113 kWh battery.

• Load capacity: About 62.5 sq.ft.

• Gross vehicle weight: Up to 8,500 pounds; trailer loads up to 4,000 pounds.

For more information on eSprinter specs and amenities, see full eSprinter van report at Work Truck.

In addition to European production, the eSprinter will be produced at Mercedes Benz’ Charleston, South Carolina plant. Pricing has not been released, although U.S. assembly should make the van eligible for the U.S. $7,500 EV tax credit.

The first version of eSprinter had been sold in Europe since 2020 as a delivery van, with Amazon as its largest buyer. That version came with a much smaller battery pack, a choice of either a 35- or 47-kWh.

To find out what's new on the eSprinter and for facts about model features, check out the eSprinter electric van report on Automotive Fleet.