INDIANAPOLIS — So, my friend asks, “Hey, Casey, what are you driving this week?” To which I reply, “One of the new Mercedes electric vehicles.” “Is it roomy?” “Oh yeah, lots of space. It’s like a bus inside!”
My daughter overhears this conversation as we’re rushing out the door to my dentist appointment. I’m sure she imagines her favorite Mercedes EQS uber-luxury electric sedan as she smugly sweeps out the door. She drops all of her attitude when she spies the eSprinter — an electric version of the popular Sprinter commercial van you’ll likely see shuttling travelers at the airport or fronting your plumber.
This barn-dominum is astonishingly easy to drive, though. You sit high and forward with big glass and mirrors all-around. It shrinks in your hands, which should be a relief for contractors who will be slipping them in and out of tight driveways and narrow alleyways as part of their daily toil.
I tell my daughter to be careful getting out. She says, “Yeah, it would be quite a tumble!”
Base models achieve 160 miles range, but a larger battery is available for 250 miles. Drivers can quick charge 10-80% in 42 minutes or fully charge in 12.5 hours – an easy overnight on a 240v charger back at the shop. Thanks to 201 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, the rear-drive van runs 0-60 mph in 12.7 seconds.
And, it can really haul. The cavern behind the safety wall can hold 488 cubic feet of cargo weighing up to 2,624 lbs. For reference, that’s about 800 lbs. more than a Smart car. The ride is a little bouncy unloaded, but settled nicely with 700 lbs. or so hitching a ride.
Yet, it’s still a Mercedes-Benz. Dashboard and controls seem lifted from the GLA crossover. A thick leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic climate control, heated seats, and voice-activated infotainment add comforts. Safety is enhanced by automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross path detection, and crosswind assist. A rearview camera mirror provides a clear view when backing to a loading dock.
I’m on my way out for one final drive when I call into my house, “Baby, I’m heading to the liquor store to pick up a pallet or two of bourbon. Anything you need at Costco?”
Especially given its ability to earn a living, the eSprinter should prove a good investment. It costs more than the Ford eTransit’s $51,095 sticker, but is surprisingly less than the Ram ProMaster EV’s $77,995. Base eSprinters start at $71,886, rising to $75,316 with the extended-range battery pack.
Likes
- Smooth operator
- Hauling Capacity
- Easy maneuvering
Dislikes
- Limited range
- Luxury price
- It’s big!
2024 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter
Two-passenger, RWD Van
Output: 201hp/295 lb.-ft.
Suspension f/r: Ind/Trailing arm
Wheels f/r: 16”/16” alloy
Brakes f/r: regen disc/disc
Driving range: 250 miles
0-60 mph: 12.7s
Top speed: 75 mph
Recharge (10-80%): 42m
Payload capacity: 2,624 lbs.
Assembly: Sindelfingen, Germany
Base/as-tested price: $71,886/75,316
2024 Mercedes EQS 450+ Challenges World’s Best EVs
Just in case you, like my daughter, really wanted a review about the EQS and not a giant van, I also drove the 2024 Mercedes EQS 450+. You know, just for comparison.
It certainly sports an aero shape more elegant, but without pretention — especially stretched over 21” AMG wheels with a subtle rear spoiler on the power hatch. It’s beautiful, but not distinctive enough with the big plastic panel across its facia. Fortunately, the EQS will soon receive a new panel that simulates the traditional Mercedes grille as the star returns to the hood.
Sitting in the front or rear, one has long miles to enjoy it. Mercedes claims 352 miles range, but it’s been clocking closer to 415 miles in a combination of city and highway driving. Charging is pretty quick, getting to 80% in 31 minutes on a fast charger (or 11.5 hours on 240v at home).
On-road, whispered and turbine-smooth acceleration is quite intoxicating whether slaying a 0-60 mph run of 5.8 seconds or just rushing off a freeway on-ramp. Combined output is rated 355 horsepower and 419 lb.-ft. of torque, but unlike with a gas engine, all of that power occurs instantly with a touch of your big toe.
It’s a big car shrunk by ample power and rear steering that enables this S-Class to maneuver like an A-Class.
Set in Comfort mode, the air suspension delivers that iron sponge waft for which older Mercedes were known – never out of control, but respectably relaxed. Unlike in the old days, Sport mode tightens up the suspension, steering, and accelerator for a more engaging driving experience. Eco mode is aimed at maximizing driving range.
The interior is next-level with Mercedes’ pillar to pillar Hyperscreen that provides flatscreen gauges, wide infotainment screen in the middle, and a third zone for the co-pilot. Devices connect wirelessly through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — and can be charged wirelessly too.
It’s also pretty cozy. Soft leather seats give deep hugs and soothe with heat, ventilation, and massagers up front. Rear passengers get heat and power recliners. Four-zone automatic climate control, panoramic sunroof, and Bermester 3D audio system cater to all. Natural gran brown-Walnut veneers confirm you’re in a Mercedes.
It’s place at the top may not yet be secure, but the EQS is certainly looking more confident. And, confidence comes at a price. The EQS starts at $104,400, but came to $115,160 for our 450+.
Likes
- Extraordinary range
- Sumptuous luxury
- Hyperscreen infotainment
Dislikes
- Nondescript styling
- Rear legroom
- No hands-off cruising
2024 Mercedes EQS 450+
Five-passenger, RWD Sedan
Output: 355hp/419 lb.-ft.
Suspension f/r: Air Ind/Ind
Wheels f/r: 21”/21” alloy
Brakes f/r: regen disc/disc
Driving range: 352 miles
0-60 mph: 5.8s
Recharge (10-80%): 31m
Economy city/hwy: 95/98 mpg-e
Assembly: Sindelfingen, Germany
Base/as-tested price: $104,400/115,160
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Send comments to Casey at AutoCasey@aol.com; follow him on YouTube @AutoCasey.
