Mercedes-Benz classes up camper market with Sprinter Caravan Concept
Wed, 04 Sep 2013
Mercedes-Benz has moved into the Caravan Salon 2013 held in Düsseldorf, Germany with several new live-in showcases, starting with the Sprinter Caravan Concept. The tall-boy cargo van has been turned into a cut-away model with a kitchen with gloss-white fixtures, a living area, a bathroom with integrated wardrobe, front seats that can swivel all the way around, laminate flooring and walls and ceiling covered in Alcantara, plus LED lighting throughout. Mercedes says it ships 4,000 Sprinters to North America that get outfitted into high-luxe mobile dwellings, and the Caravan Concept is a symbol of how far that can go.
Show-goers can also check out the Viano Fun and Viano Marco Polo, exemplifying the same concept as the Sprinter but in smaller packages. Going the other way, there is also a vehicle based on the heavy-duty Actros truck.
The Viano Marco Polo comes with a pop-up roof, a kitchenette ready for a traveling gourmet, and an electrically convertible rear bench seat. The Viano Fun offers a pop-up roof as an option and comes with movable seats around a folding table and a fold-down rear bench. You can read more about them in the press release below, or check them out at the show if you plan to be in northwest Germany this week – the show runs from August 31 to September 8. If none of those do it for you, there's always that Sprinter-based Airstream Interstate 3500...
Mercedes-Benz at the Caravan Salon 2013 - Reaching for the stars: Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles with a broad portfolio at the Caravan Salon 2013
- Eye-catcher: cut-away model with exclusive white appointments
- Sprinter also popular for camper vans in USA and China
- The new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: world premiere for safety systems
- First van worldwide to comply with future Euro VI emission standards
- Unique: 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission
- Viano Fun: time out with a smile
- Viano Marco Polo: the compact camper van that's also suitable for daily use
- Camper van platforms from Viano to Actros and Zetros
Stuttgart, Aug 30, 2013 -- Now even safer, cleaner, more comfortable and more striking: Mercedes-Benz will be showcasing the new Sprinter at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf from 31 August to 8 September. The number one base vehicle for luxury camper vans is continuing to build on its lead – and is now to be found as a camper van platform from North America to China. The Mercedes-Benz Viano Marco Polo and the Viano Fun are also showing their colours at Europe's leading trade show for recreational vehicles. Mercedes-Benz camper vans of all sizes are on display at the camper van manufacturers' stands, ranging from the compact Viano recreational vehicle to the imposing alcove vehicle based on the Mercedes-Benz Actros heavy-duty truck.
Eye-catcher: cut-away model with exclusive white appointments
An eye-catcher at the Mercedes-Benz stand at the Caravan Salon is the fully functional cut-away model of a new high-roof Mercedes-Benz Sprinter fully converted into a camper van. The right-hand side of the vehicle is completely open from the middle of the front passenger door to the rear axle, revealing a living area with front seats turned around and a spacious side-facing bench seat – which can be pulled out to form a double bed – a kitchen to the left of the opening and a bathroom with integrated wardrobe fitted in transverse position in the rear.
The cut-away model is fitted with furniture featuring a hard-wearing HPL coating in high-gloss white, grey laminate flooring, and seats featuring white genuine automobile leather from Mercedes-Benz. This combination lends the interior the elegant character of a yacht. Side walls and ceiling are covered in Alcantara, with LED lighting throughout. On the outside, the Sprinter sports the new tenorite grey metallic paint finish.
Alongside the cut-away model, the new Sprinter is on display as a chassis with cab and the unique low frame with independent wheel suspension for vans with driven rear axle. Its Plexiglass cover symbolises a camper van body while at the same time revealing the Sprinter's technical details in the area of chassis and drive system.
Standard camper van package for commercial body manufacturers
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is enjoying ever increasing popularity above all among fitters in the luxury camper van segment. Mercedes-Benz is now supporting these fitters with a new standard camper van package. Features include the front passenger airbag and a folding handbrake lever. The latter prevents collisions between swivel seats and the lever when the handbrake is engaged. Along with other details, the package also includes the parametrisable special module (PSM module), which serves as the interface between the body's technical features and the Sprinter's electronics.
Sprinter also popular for camper vans in USA and China
A large number of fitters and body manufacturers are presenting camper vans based on the Sprinter at the Caravan Salon. The Sprinter is also much in demand outside of Europe as a safe and comfortable basis for high-end camper vans. In North America, for example, Mercedes-Benz currently delivers around 4000 camper vans a year to numerous leading fitters and body manufacturers, who duly transform them into attractive Class B camper vans or Class C motorhomes (partially integrated/alcove vehicles).
Increasing numbers of these vehicles are now being produced for export. Consequently, American camper vans based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter may nowadays even be encountered in China. The
Sprinter camper van is thus emerging as a global vehicle, much in the same way as its counterpart from the vans segment.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: innovation leader setting new benchmarks
Its name defines an entire category of vehicles – the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is synonymous with vans around the 3.5 t class. The same applies in the area of high-end camper vans – the Sprinter is the measure of all things. With its numerous wheelbase and length variants, different heights and gross vehicle weights, its safe and comfortable suspension and its spacious and exclusively appointed cab, it is predestined above all as a base vehicle for high-quality camper vans.
The innovation leader is now raising the benchmark yet again, with five new safety systems, engines complying with the future Euro VI emission standards and a striking appearance. And above all with exceptionally low fuel consumption down to 6.3 l/100 km, assuring it of best-in-class status by far in this discipline.
World premiere for new safety systems
The Sprinter has a long tradition of pioneering new driver assistance systems, such as the ESP Electronic Stability Program. Assistance systems play a key role among safety-conscious buyers of camper vans. The new Sprinter premieres Crosswind Assist – an important feature above all for the popular camper vans with high roof, which are particularly exposed to the wind. Crosswind Assist virtually eliminates the effects of gusts acting on the vehicle, within the bounds of the laws of physics. The required extent of countersteering when exposed to gusts of wind is reduced, thereby markedly reducing the strain on the driver. An indicator lamp informs the driver when the assistant intervenes.
The proximity warning system is another first in this class. The radar-based system provides a visual warning when the Sprinter is too close to the vehicle ahead, followed by an acoustic alarm in the event of an acute danger of collision. When the driver steps on the brakes, Adaptive Brake Assist ensures that sufficient deceleration is applied to avoid an accident – emergency braking tailored precisely to the given requirements.
Blind Spot Assist – another first for the vans segment – warns the driver of other vehicles in the so-called blind spot when changing lanes. This system operates on the basis of four short-range sensors in the area of the B-pillars and the rear pillars. When these sensors detect a vehicle in the blind spot, a red warning signal appears in the exterior mirror on the relevant side. If the driver nevertheless activates the indicator on this side, an acoustic warning will sound and the red warning signal will begin to flash.
Lane Keeping Assist goes into action when the Sprinter threatens to pass over a marking line without an indicator having been activated or any change to the position of the accelerator or brake pedal. This assistant is based on a camera system and provides the driver with an acoustic warning in such situations.
A camera also provides the basis for Highbeam Assist – another first in the Sprinter class. Highbeam Assist switches between high and dipped beam according to the given traffic situation. The camera responds to oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead by dipping the headlamps. When the road is clear again, the assistant switches back to high beam automatically.
These additional new assistance systems are available now in conjunction with the closed versions of the new Sprinter. The chassis variants will follow next year.
First van worldwide to comply with future Euro VI emission standards
Holidaying in a camper van is a perfect way to combine nature and technology. The new Sprinter comes up trumps on this front, too: it is the first in its class to offer a complete range of engines complying with the future Euro VI emission standards. It means drastically reduced limits for emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrocarbons (HC) and particulate matter (PM). The Sprinter complies with the stringent limits by means of BlueTec engine technology and SCR technology with the injection of AdBlue into the exhaust gas. This technology has already proven its worth in several hundreds of thousands of commercial vehicles from Mercedes-Benz.
The AdBlue additive (synthetic urea) is now available at virtually all filling stations throughout Europe and in various types of containers. The price per litre is around half that of diesel fuel. The AdBlue tank is installed at the front right of the engine compartment as seen in direction of travel and has a capacity of 18 litres. This is sufficient for around 6000 km, depending on the operating conditions. When the level of AdBlue is low, the driver is alerted by an initial warning on the display of the instrument cluster. This warning appears when sufficient AdBlue remains for around 1000 km, depending on the driver's driving style. A yellow warning lamp additionally lights up.
The power output of the diesel engines remains unaltered. The engine line-up comprises four-cylinder units with a displacement of 2.15 l spanning an output range from 70 kW (95 hp) to 120 kW (163 hp) and the V6 3.0 CDI which is without parallel in this segment, delivering 140 kW (190 hp) and generating an impressive 440 Nm of torque.
Trimmed to minimal fuel consumption
The product engineers have taken advantage of the engines' additional exhaust gas aftertreatment to optimise the injection characteristics, the combustion process and the charge pressure. This has led to lower fuel consumption and quieter combustion. In addition, the drive and ancillary assemblies have been systematically trimmed to low consumption. Measures here cover the transmission, rear axle and intelligent alternator management, for example.
As an alternative to the diesel engines, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is also available with a supercharged four-cylinder direct-injection petrol engine complying with Euro VI emission standards. This engine has a displacement of 1.8 l and is rated at 115 kW (156 hp). There is a natural-gas variant based on this engine offering the same output.
Unique: 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission
The engine power is transferred to the road either via the manual six-speed Eco Gear transmission or the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission with torque converter, the like of which are not to be found in any other van. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS is particularly popular among comfort-oriented camper van buyers, on account of the almost imperceptible gear changes and the manner in which it guarantees the appropriate gear ratio at all times. The wide-stepped six-speed manual transmission now operates even more economically thanks to the use of low-friction oil, while the automatic transmission benefits similarly from newly defined shift points. Another premiere in this segment is the variant featuring 7G-TRONIC PLUS in conjunction with a fast-responding and fuel-saving Eco start/stop function.
The most economical van in its class
The combination of highly economical diesel engines with an optimised powertrain, a longer final-drive ratio, the ancillary assemblies and the BlueEfficiency package Plus results in a fuel consumption in combined mode as low as 6.3 l/100 km. This sensational new record level for the Sprinter's vehicle class also means extremely low CO2 emissions.
Exterior and interior further upgraded
The new Sprinter also sports markedly sharper looks. In keeping with the current design line from Mercedes-Benz the radiator grille is more upright, presenting a bolder face. The three radiator louvres are arrow-shaped and perforated. This creates a dynamic impression and increases the air flow. A surround lends the hallmark radiator grille added presence.
The headlamps have a sharper profile, the new bonnet is higher and the bumper features more striking lines. The details on its underside are reminiscent of an SUV. The new Sprinter is recognisable from the rear by two-chamber tail lights.
The exemplary interior has also been further upgraded. New seat upholstery and seat covers enhance comfort, the thick-rimmed steering wheel offers improved grip, the fresh-air nozzles feature chrome applications when a multifunction steering wheel is specified. The knob on the shift lever has been redesigned.
New radio generation, Becker Map Pilot navigation system
State-of-the-art audio and navigation equipment is particularly important on board camper vans. The new Sprinter features a new radio generation. The entry-level Audio 10 is a double-DIN radio. Its features include Bluetooth telephony including telephone keypad and phone book, an SD card slot, a USB 2.0 port and an AUX input in the cockpit. It plays formats such as WMA, MP3, AAC and WAV.
The Audio 15 additionally incorporates a 5.5-inch colour display and enables the use of iPod devices via a USB 2.0 port. The images from the optionally available reversing camera are shown on the display. These images are provided with guide lines to further facilitate manoeuvring. The Audio 15 can also be linked up to the new, optional Becker Map Pilot navigation system. It is a fully integrated navigation system with an intuitive user interface. The system features TMC for dynamic tailback avoidance.
The Becker Map Pilot box is integrated discretely in the new Sprinter's glove compartment. Map data for the buyer's region is pre-installed. The box is removable and incorporates a USB connection, enabling the navigation module to be customised and updated online via a computer. A pre-installation option for the Becker Map Pilot is also available, should an appropriate device which is already installed in the buyer's car be intended for alternating use between the two vehicles.
Viano Fun: time out with a smile
In addition to the Sprinter, another Mercedes-Benz product recommendable for use in the recreational segment comes in the guise of the Viano. This is a family car, luxury saloon, business mobile, recreational vehicle and van in one – the Mercedes-Benz Viano is a fascinating, multi-faceted large-capacity vehicle that fits the bill 365 days a year. The Trend, Ambiente and Avantgarde equipment lines derive their special appeal above all from their passenger car flair. Viano Fun and above all the Viano Marco Polo, which has been developed together with body manufacturing partner Van Conversion, offer full suitability for both everyday use and leisure activities.
The Viano Fun comes in two lengths and offers between five and seven seats. The seats are arranged around a folding table and can be moved as desired within a highly flexible rail system or removed in next to no time. The rear bench seat can be folded down for those wishing to sleep in the Viano Fun. When additional berths are required, the vehicle is optionally available with a pop-up roof, which creates plenty of room and the necessary space for a roof bed.
Viano Marco Polo: recreational vehicle fully suitable for everyday use
The Viano Marco Polo comes with a pop-up roof as standard. This recreational vehicle is fully suitable for everyday use and is based on the middle of the three available Viano lengths. Measuring less than two metres overall in height in driving position and also under two metres in width, it fits comfortably into a garage.
Inside, on the left as seen in the direction of travel, is a completely furnished kitchenette with cupboards. Cooker, sink, fridge, water system, stowage space, wardrobe – the vehicle is fully fitted out as a mobile holiday home. The highlight of the Viano Marco Polo is its flexible rear bench seat. It comprises two single seats which can be individually adjusted electrically right down to a full reclining position. For long journeys, the side bolsters can be raised by electro-pneumatic means – this provides for comfortable shaping and secure lateral support during cornering.
The special Viano Marco Polo Edition model featuring an extensive array of special equipment is a particularly attractive proposition. The special features range from an automatic transmission and bi-xenon headlamps, Tempmatic air conditioning, 17-inch light-alloy wheels and Audio 50 APS navigation system to metallic paintwork, hot-air auxiliary heating and windowbags for driver and front passenger. Prices for the Viano Marco Polo Edition start at 54,538 euros (Germany).
All Vianos feature an unrivalled standard of safety equipment featuring a host of assistance systems. The vehicles are powered by four- and six-cylinder diesel engines with a displacement of 2.15 l and 3.0 l. Their outputs range from 100 kW (136 hp) to 165 kW (224 hp). The engine power is transferred to the road via a six-speed manual transmission as standard or optionally via an automatic transmission (standard for the V6 3.0 CDI). A V6 petrol engine is alternatively available with an output of 190 kW (258 hp).
BlueEfficiency features are standard on board every Viano. Depending on the model in question, this efficiency package comprises an Eco start/stop function along with fuel-efficient ancillary assemblies and tyres with reduced rolling resistance. BlueEfficiency guarantees low fuel consumption and emissions.
A hallmark of the Viano is the high-traction rear-wheel drive. As an alternative, the Viano is also available with 4Matic all-wheel drive. The Viano's suspension combines safety with comfort – with air suspension optionally available at the rear axle for added comfort. Additional defining features of the Viano are its agility and manoeuvrability.
Viano Marco Polo and Fun at the Caravan Salon
Two Viano Marco Polo Edition models are on show at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf to demonstrate the versatility of the recreational vehicles featuring high-quality and highly practical fixtures from our partner Westfalia Van Conversion. The extensive range of equipment on these Edition models includes automatic transmission, bi-xenon headlamps, Tempmatic air conditioning, 17-inch light-alloy wheels, Audio 50 APS navigation system, metallic paintwork, hot-air auxiliary heating and windowbags for driver and front passenger.
The model on exhibit in mountain crystal white is powered by a V6 3.0 CDI engine rated at 165 kW (224 hp) for impressively dynamic performance. The yacht floor in the rear and the Lugano leather upholstery in orion grey lend the interior an exclusive look. With its electro-hydraulically operated pop-up roof and integrated electric tilting/sliding glass sunroof, this camper van bearing the Mercedes star brings you close to the stars above at night.
As an alternative to the rear-wheel drive the Viano is also available with 4Matic all-wheel drive. The exhibited Viano Marco Polo Edition in flint grey metallic ensures maximum traction even in the most difficult conditions. Its four-cylinder 2.2 CDI engine rated at 120 kW (163 hp) combines power with fuel efficiency and correspondingly low emissions.
The all-rounder in the Viano range is the Viano Fun, which is also on display here with a 2.2 CDI engine delivering an output of 120 kW (163 hp). Its Activity equipment package comprises added comfort and luxury items such as 17-inch light-alloy wheels, Parktronic parking aid and metallic paintwork. The Comfort Fun package enhances the interior with features such as ambience lighting, a cockpit with Softtouch surfacing, electric vent windows for the second row of seats, carpeting in the driver's compartment and in the foot area of the side wall trim and a heat exchanger in the rear. The body sports obsidian black metallic paintwork.
Camper van platforms from Viano through Actros to Zetros
While the Sprinter and Viano form the centrepieces of the range of camper vans and recreational vehicles from Mercedes-Benz, the company's unique spectrum of vans and trucks offers virtually infinite options for all types of bodies and fixtures.
The Mercedes-Benz Actros is a popular choice for manufacturers seeking to produce an absolutely high-end individual dream vehicle, often in its three-axle variant and with a garage for a passenger car in the rear. The Unimog off-road icon or the all-wheel-drive Zetros conventional-cab truck provide the appropriate platform for all-terrain expedition vehicles. Whether you opt for a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Viano or another basic model for your holidays on wheels: With a vehicle with the star one is well equipped for those journeys.
By Jonathon Ramsey