A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.2/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
4
Running Costs
4.6
Practicality
4.5
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Could electric vans finally make financial sense for your business? The mercedes-benz esprinter suggests they might, combining Mercedes’ commercial vehicle expertise with genuinely practical electric technology. Rather than feeling like a compromise, this feels like a proper van that happens to be electric.
The eSprinter’s strengths lie in its real-world usability. With up to 168 miles of range and comprehensive charging options, it handles typical urban delivery routes without drama. The instant torque delivery makes it surprisingly responsive when loaded, while the whisper-quiet operation reduces driver fatigue. Multiple body configurations ensure there’s likely a variant that fits your specific needs.
From a business perspective, the numbers stack up impressively. Electricity costs significantly less than diesel, maintenance requirements drop without complex engine components, and government incentives sweeten the deal further. The eight-year battery warranty addresses the biggest concern most fleet managers have about electric vehicles.
What sets the eSprinter apart is how normal it feels to drive and operate. Mercedes hasn’t reinvented the wheel – they’ve simply electrified their proven Sprinter formula. For businesses ready to make the switch to electric, particularly those operating in urban areas, the eSprinter removes most of the usual barriers while delivering genuine cost savings.
How Does the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter Drive?
The Mercedes-Benz eSprinter comes with a single electric motor producing 114hp and 295Nm of torque. This might sound modest, but the instant torque delivery makes it feel adequately powered for most commercial applications. The acceleration is smooth and linear, particularly useful when carrying heavy loads.
The official range stands at up to 168 miles, though real-world figures will vary depending on load, weather, and driving style. For urban delivery routes, this range should prove sufficient for most businesses. The regenerative braking system helps maximise efficiency and feels natural in operation.
Charging capabilities are comprehensive, with support for both AC and DC rapid charging. A full charge from a standard 7kW home charger takes around 10 hours. However, using a 50kW rapid charger can replenish the battery to 80% in just over an hour.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
Electric motor
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Power Output
114 bhp
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0-60 mph
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MPG Combined
168 miles range
- Boot Space
- 10.5 cubic metres
- Safety Rating
- Regenerative braking, DC rapid charging, Load securing points
Inside the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter: Comfort & Features
The eSprinter’s cabin feels familiar to anyone who has driven a conventional Sprinter. The driving position is commanding, with good visibility in all directions. The seats offer decent support, though they could be more comfortable for very long journeys.
Noise levels are impressively low, particularly at urban speeds. Without a diesel engine, conversations are easier, and fatigue is reduced. The electric power steering is well weighted and provides good feedback.
Storage solutions are well thought out, with multiple cup holders and compartments for paperwork and personal items. The dashboard layout is logical, with frequently used controls within easy reach. If you’re interested in exploring financing options, our guide on how to find the cheapest car finance deals in the uk could help reduce running costs further.
The esprinter excels with exhilarating performance matched by refined comfort, creating a driving experience that exceeds expectations in every way.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Mercedes-Benz eSprinter?
Electric vans offer significant advantages in running costs, and the eSprinter is no exception. Electricity is considerably cheaper than diesel, particularly when charging overnight on cheaper tariffs. Maintenance requirements are also reduced without conventional engine components.
The eSprinter qualifies for various government incentives and grants. Many urban areas offer preferential access or reduced charges for electric commercial vehicles. This can provide significant savings for city-based businesses.
Insurance costs are reasonable, helped by the comprehensive safety equipment. Residual values remain strong, reflecting Mercedes’ reputation for reliability. The eight-year battery warranty provides additional peace of mind for fleet buyers.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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mercedes-benz esprinter
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Ford E-Transit
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Iveco Daily Electric
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | from £58,000 | from £52,000 | from £55,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | Electric 114hp | Electric 135hp | Electric 122hp |
| Power | 114 bhp | 135 bhp | 122 bhp |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 168 miles range | 196 miles range | 124 miles range |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 10.5 cubic metres | 15.1 cubic metres | 11.5 cubic metres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Electric drivetrain, Low running costs, 8-year battery warranty, Multiple body configs | Higher payload, Longer range, Competitive pricing, Established network | Modular design, Fast charging, Urban focused, Flexible configurations |
Mercedes-Benz eSprinter Practicality & Boot Space
The eSprinter excels in practicality, offering up to 10.5 cubic metres of cargo space. Multiple wheelbase and roof height options ensure there’s a variant for most applications. The low loading sill makes manual handling easier.
The flat load floor maximises usable space, while numerous load securing points help keep cargo secure. Side and rear doors provide excellent access, and the optional sliding passenger door improves urban usability.
Gross vehicle weight options range from 3.5 to 4.25 tonnes, providing flexibility for different licensing requirements. The turning circle remains manageable despite the van’s size, aided by the responsive electric power steering.
For those exploring used Mercedes-Benz cars, the eSprinter represents the brand’s commitment to sustainable transport solutions.
“We’ve been running three eSprinters for eight months now, and they’ve transformed our London operations. The drivers love the quiet, smooth operation, and our fuel costs have dropped dramatically. The range is perfect for our daily routes, and overnight charging works brilliantly. Yes, they cost more upfront, but the savings and environmental benefits make it worthwhile. The build quality feels just as solid as our old diesel Sprinters.”
The Mercedes-Benz eSprinter represents a mature, well-engineered approach to electric commercial vehicles. It combines Mercedes’ legendary build quality with genuinely useful electric technology. The driving experience is refined, and the practical benefits are substantial.
For urban-focused businesses, the eSprinter makes compelling financial and environmental sense. The comprehensive warranty and Mercedes’ extensive dealer network provide additional confidence. While the purchase price is substantial, the total cost of ownership tells a different story.
The eSprinter proves that electric commercial vehicles can match their diesel predecessors for reliability and exceed them for running costs. It’s a convincing glimpse into the future of commercial transport.