Mercedes-Benz to offer 16-passenger Sprinter variant

Daimler AG terminated its contract with nearly 350 Dodge dealers last year to sell the Sprinter van, which has been sold by selected Freightliner dealers since 2001. Daimler Vans USA is now expanding the Sprinter model with the addition of a passenger van that seats up to 16 individuals, hoping to target hotel shuttle service, paratransit and other applications (a very big road-trip for your friends and family).

The vehicle will go on sale later this summer and can be ordered from Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner. Mercedes-Benz spokesman Dan Barile says that the company will offer four different interior configurations including a model with a wheelchair lift.

Power for the van will come from a 188-hp 3.0L turbocharged diesel V6.

Pricing will be announced closer to launch date.

– By: Kap Shah

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)