Merc’s Sprinter gets a payload bump

MERCEDES has closed the gap between its commercial vans and lightduty trucks in South Africa with a new 5.5-ton GVW Sprinter.

The heavier-duty Sprinter increases the existing permissible payload by almost half a ton, making it better suited for the working-class sector where construction companies, fire brigades, long distance taxi operators and delivery services require maximum load hauling capabilities.

The higher permissible GVW (gross vehicle weight) is accompanied by a corresponding rise in permissible axle loads. The maximum front axle load rises from 1950kg to 2100kg, while at the rear it’s up from 3500kg to 3600kg. This, says Benz, provides the Sprinter with adequate axle load reserves even in the event of uneven weight distribution.

The Sprinter as a chassis with cab comes with a load-bearing capacity of around 3400kg. As a panel van with a high roof and standard wheelbase, the Mercedes-Benz 5.5 ton Sprinter with a six-cylinder diesel gets a payload of up to 2900kg - the highest of any panel van in this weight class.

A 519 CDI engine with an output of 140kW is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, but a 7G-Tronic Plus automatic is available as an option.

Safety features include ABS brakes, two airbags, stability control, trailer stability assist, collision prevention assist, and adaptive brake assist among others. From April next year blind spot, lane keeping, highbeam and crosswind assistance systems will also come standard.

The 5.5-ton Mercedes Sprinter is covered by a 5-year/105 000km service plan. Working class German van can now carry an extra half ton.