Mercedes eSprinter electric van review

Looking at its price tag, you might think that the Mercedes eSprinter is an expensive electric van.

Yes, it might cost you a chunk more upfront than its closest rivals, but Mercedes knows as well as anyone that a van is a working tool that has to at least earn its keep. So, while the old adage of "buy cheap and buy twice" doesn’t quite apply to buying a new van, buying a pricier one like the Sprinter might not cost you more when you come to adding up the total cost of running the vehicle – and that goes double for an electric van.

Unlike other Sprinters, the eSprinter comes in just one size, with a medium-length body and a high roof (L2 H2), but crucially there are two battery sizes that allow for an official range of up to 96 miles. Power comes from an 114bhp motor producing 218lb ft of instantaneous torque.

Heavy batteries compromise payloads, but the fact that the eSprinter doesn't need a heavy engine or gearbox helps to balance things out; it's capable of moving up to 1045kg and has a load volume of 11m3.

Keep reading the next few pages of this review to find out how the Mercedes eSprinter compares with the best electric vans in terms of performance, interior quality, day-to-day usability and, of course, load-lugging ability. We'll also let you know whether it should be on you or your company's shopping list and whether it has what it takes to be the catalyst that gets more people driving electric vans.

And remember, we can help you find the best leasing deals through the free What Car? Leasing section, where you can get a quote for whichever make and model of car or van fits your personal or business needs.