Chic Cargo Event Highlights Best-In-Class Sprinter Features and Exclusive Upfitter Program

Chic Cargo, a two-day media drive program showcasing the highly successful Sprinter van, opens today at Soldier Field. Featuring a number of companies that customize the Sprinter van for a wide range of specialized uses, their "upfitter" vehicles range from ambulances and work trucks to luxury motor homes and executive coaches. Chic Cargo activities include driving demonstrations, displays and test drives between Soldier Field and several other event venues. Designed largely for U.S. and Canadian journalists representing commercial vehicle and truck trade publications, automotive business media and analysts, and general lifestyle media, Chic Cargo brings to life the Sprinter's best-in-class engineering, fuel economy, safety, versatility and quality in a wide range of real-world settings.

"Test The Best" Demonstration

One of the most dramatic driving demonstrations involves vans fitted with strong outriggers that demonstrate Sprinter's excellent handling, preventing them from rolling over during emergency maneuvers. The outriggers allow drivers to experience the difference in handling with the Sprinter's unique adaptive electronic stability control (ESP) system turned on and off.

With the innovative system on, the van's four wheels remain planted securely on the road during sharp evasive turns, while two wheels actually lift off the ground when the adaptive ESP system is turned off. The secret of the test lies in the rear of the special Sprinter, which has a high center of gravity due to partially filled water tanks that feature constantly shifting weight changes due to aggressive driver steering inputs. Two "Test the Best" vehicles will be on hand to test for the entire afternoon of September 13th.

Preferred Upfitter Program

Meeting the diverse needs of Sprinter customers is important, since 75 percent of all Sprinter are sold with some type of upfitter modification. As a result, the Chic Cargo event also spotlights the Preferred Upfitter Program that's designed to ensure the quality and safety of all modifications. To become a Preferred Upfitter, several Sprinter specialists review each upfitter's plans, visit their facility while work is in progress and inspect finished vans. Approved upfitters get advance product information, exclusive access to certain options, ship-through service if applicable, and also receive special programming of the electronics system that is tailored to the customer's need and vehicle functionality.

Preferred Upfitters on Display at Chic Cargo:

Interstate by Airstream

The Interstate motor home is the best-selling Class B van in the U.S. for the past two years. The Interstate features belted seating for eight, sleeping accommodations for two and a restroom as well as a galley that includes a dual-burner cooktop, a convection-microwave oven and a 3.1-cubic-foot refrigerator. Its captain's chairs swivel, and rear lounge seating converts easily to a bed at the touch of a button. The Interstate comes with a 16,000 BTU furnace, a 13,500 BTU air conditioner and a 750-watt on-board inverter for 110-volt electrical current. http://www.airstream.com/touring-coaches/interstate/

Traumahawk Ambulance by American Emergency Vehicles

The largest U.S. ambulance manufacturer, AEV builds Type II and Type III ambulances based on the Sprinter 2500 and 3500 cargo van variants that all comply with the latest Revision "F" standards. Headquartered in the heart of the North Carolina furniture-making area, AEV boasts a number of employees who are fourth-generation craftsmen. Even with its reinforced flooring and fully ducted heat/AC, there's six feet of head room for EMT workers in the patient area, along with IV hooks, a rack for oxygen tanks and special lights in the action area, street side and curbside. http://www.aev.com/3-ambulance-models/

Refrigerated Van by Arctic

Arctic specializes in Sprinter-based refrigerated vans with optional features such as power liftgates, multi-temperature compartments and special shelving. Their customers love the standup height and overall capacity that the Sprinter high-roof vans offer, not to mention its car-like fuel economy. Arctic Vans even provides flexibility of design that can ensure hot, cold and ambient temperatures – all in one van. Most of their refrigerated vans are fitted with three inches of soy-based closed-cell foam that's sprayed directly on the factory paint to prevent rust. Their aluminum diamond-plate flooring is durable and easy to clean, with welded, no leak seams. Arctic vans range from 275 to 420 cubic feet of finished cargo capacity. http://arcticvans.com/index.php

SNV Aerial Lift Unit by ETI

Developed in partnership with an Atlanta cable TV provider, ETI's SNV Aerial Lift Unit is the first Sprinter-certified man lift in the U.S. built without utilizing stability outriggers. With a working height of 35 feet, the Aerial Lift Unit features 350-pound bucket capacity and hydraulic platform leveling as well as an internal bridge frame that provides more storage and better accessibility, an inner boom actuated by a cylinder extension system and valves that lock cylinders in place if there's ever a hydraulic failure.

The ETI SNV Aerial Lift Unit can be equipped with options such as an oversized bucket, electric tool circuit, emergency lowering and emergency power. The lift can be powered utilizing a fan belt pump or DC electrical system as displayed at this event. http://www.eti1.com/equipment.asp

A Trio of Vans by Ilderton Conversion

The Paratransit Van is one of three customized vans at the Ilderton display. Popular with hospitals and nursing homes as well as city, county and state governments, the Paratransit Van has three wheelchair positions and four conventional seats, with more configurations available. The second van, the Executive Coach, features a five-speaker surround-sound theater with dual TVS, leather captain's chairs and wood trim. Targeted to collegiate teams, the Team Travel Van seats 11, with overhead storage, surround-sound theater audio, a Sony Play Station and a 36-inch-deep storage compartment at the rear for luggage and equipment such as golf clubs. http://www.ildertonvans.com/commercial/custom-upfits/

Type III Ambulance by Leader Industries

The Leader ambulance has an all-aluminum body that allows EMT crews to stand inside and work comfortably. The ambulance is equipped with LED interior compartment lighting and uses Code 3 LED warning lights. Every Sprinter-based ambulance from Leader comes with a fully equipped BIO station, a six-point harness system, capacity for dual M cylinders, a backup battery system and an overhead switch and gauge panel. Leader ambulance interiors feature top-quality laminate-covered plywood and welded aluminum construction as well as heavy duty electrical wiring with built-in circuits for options and extra equipment. http://leader-ambulance.com/products/mercedes_benz_sprinter

111CA Service Body by Paul Maranda Enterprises

The 111CA Service Body work truck uses a lightweight, aerodynamic composite body weighing only 1,250 pounds, which provides a payload of over 4,500 pounds. Maranda specializes in building special bodies for work trucks, using robotics to provide consistent quality, finish and weight. Among its many features, the 111CA has a unique water management system that keeps rain run-off from entering the body. In addition, the doors feature steel guards on the lower edge and two-point rotary latches that ensure a complete seal and make the body more secure. http://www.paulmaranda.com/home

Pinnacle Shuttle Bus by Midway Specialty Vehicles

The Pinnacle shuttle bus features a 40-inch electrically operated passenger entry door for easy access, a spacious 84-inch interior width and panoramic side windows for excellent visibility. While Midway's customers represent a wide range of industries, the Pinnacle model is especially popular with parking lot, airport and hotel operations. The Pinnacle has a steel cage construction and a pre-finished aluminum exterior with fiberglass caps, skirts and roof. Standard equipment includes LED marker lights as well as LED brake, turn and backup lights. The Pinnacle bus offers many different floor plans to accommodate ambulatory and wheelchair passengers. http://www.mymidway.com

Business Class Van by Midwest Automotive Design

The Business Class Van is equipped with a 32-inch LCD flat screen, a mobile theater audio system with a CD/DVD player, an HDMI computer hook up, 110-volt outlets, wireless head phones and 12-volt outlets at every seat. The office environment includes a rear power reclining sofa and four removable facing seats as well as extensive sound insulation, privacy shade package and custom lap-top tables. Its many available options include a wireless internet router, a digital satellite directional TV system, a second monitor in the back and an under-sofa refrigerator.

In addition to endless customizable upgrades and even rear suspension upgrades, Midwest is able to meet clients' specific needs. Midwest continues to be the world's premier luxury coach builder. With more than 25 years in the custom automotive industry, Midwest understands productivity, comfort, safety and customer service. http://www.midwestautomotivedesigns.com/

170" Type II Ambulance by Miller Coach

Miller Coach is currently the only manufacturer with an ambulance model based on the 170- inch-wheelbase Sprinter. This features the available space of a larger vehicle with the fuel economy and performance of a Type II. About 40 inches longer than the traditional Type II, this translates to more than 80 cubic feet of extra space, which can be built out for longdistance transport, neonatal and bariatric use or other specialized needs. Miller recently converted their business exclusively to Sprinter-based Type II ambulances, which have more useable space than many box-truck ambulances. Miller standardized front forward-facing seats in 2009; replacing the traditional squad bench, the forward-facing seat provides a safe, belted location for crew members that still allows them to handle most patient needs.
http://millercoach.com/index.php/products/144-sprinters/

Ultimate Delivery Vehicle by Morgan Olson

The Ultimate Delivery Vehicle (UDV) is an innovative delivery van that provides the advantages of a walk-in van with an easy-access sliding side door. This feature alone saves more than 60 percent of delivery time at each stop while keeping drivers out of traffic. The UDV provides a spacious 850 cubic-foot cargo area that holds nearly 4,000 pounds of payload. The UDV's durable design and quality craftsmanship is balanced by aerodynamic design and an innovative diesel engine that result in high fuel mileage. The UDV can be equipped with many options, including hydraulic lift gates, a slide-out aluminum underbody ramp, a translucent roof, and a curbside slider door. http://www.morganolson.com/udv/udv.lasso

Custom Shelving by Ranger Design

Matching the ideology behind the Sprinter van, Ranger Design products are light but strong, weighing less than conventional steel bin packages, but lasting twice as long. Their unique extrusion shelving system and other exclusive design features make this the quietest van equipment on the market. Ranger drawer systems can be configured for easy access, even from outside the vehicle, and safety partitions are designed to allow full driver seat travel while maximizing cargo space. Outfitting a Sprinter with Ranger equipment results in an exceptionally safe and conducive work environment in a cost-effective and efficient vehicle. http://www.rangerdesigninc.com/html/vehicles.asp

Two RVs by Winnebago Industries

The 2013 Winnebago View Profile 24V (Class C) and the 2013 Itasca Reyo 25T (Class A) both offer luxurious appointments and legendary build quality as well as the Sprinter's impressive fuel economy – between 15 and 20 miles per gallon. Winnebago Industries is the only RV manufacturer to offer three motor home sizes – Class A, B and C -- all based on a Sprinter chassis. The View includes Ultraleather swivel cab seats, a Flex Bed twin or queen layout, Coach audio system with 22-inch LCD TV and an L-shaped sectional dinette. http://www.gowinnebago.com/ The Reyo feature a Threshold Quiet RV Door, Infotainment Center with GPS, Flex Bed system and SiriusXM satellite radio. http://www.goitasca.com

The Sprinter Success Story

The success story of the Sprinter commercial van has been attributed to its highly practical design and outstanding quality, which translate to best-in-class cargo capacity and low operating costs. With its efficient BlueTEC diesel engine, the Sprinter gets higher fuel mileage than its competitors, while its high roof and large door openings give the van class-leading cargo carrying ability. Large delivery companies have moved to Sprinter vans, and it's also become a favorite of small businesses such as catering firms and building trades.

Mercedes-Benz USA began offering the Sprinter van line through select Mercedes-Benz dealers in 2010. The Sprinter has been sold in the U.S. since 2001 by Freightliner, the industry's leading manufacturer of medium and heavy-duty trucks in North America. In the U.S., the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is targeted toward small businesses, while the Freightliner version continues to be available to its established customer base of commercial vehicle operators. Both MBUSA and Freightliner are divisions of Daimler AG, the world's largest manufacturer of commercial vehicles.

The Sprinter van line includes five models:

Cargo Van – Available in three different body lengths and two roof heights, the popular Sprinter cargo van is already a familiar sight across the U.S. Used by diverse businesses from freight delivery services and dry cleaners to florists and gourmet caterers, the cargo van features a best-in-class payload capacity of 5,358 pounds and cargo capacity of up to 547 cubic feet. The van also boasts the largest side- and reardoor openings as well as the lowest load floor and step-in height of any full-size van.

Chassis Cab – A highly flexible platform or "stake-body" van, the Sprinter chassis cab can be finished as a tradesman's tool and parts vehicle or an agri-farming flatbed. Available in two wheelbase lengths, the chassis cab platform can also accommodate the installation of special cargo boxes ranging from motor homes and medical emergency units to full kitchens and refrigerated compartments.

Passenger Van – With four rows of seats for up to 12 occupants (each fitted with an individual three-point seat belt and head restraint), the Sprinter passenger van is intended for airport, residential care and community service shuttles as well as limousine services. Sprinter passenger vans can be ordered in two different wheelbases and two roof heights.

Crew Van - Featuring a three-seat second row and an optional third-row seat, the Sprinter crew van seats five, with all the remaining room set up for cargo. The crew van can carry an entire work crew to the job site and back, plus all their tools and materials.

MiniBus – Larger than the passenger van but similar in design, the MiniBus features four different seating configurations. Airport and Hotel versions provide ample luggage areas and seating for 15 passengers. A commuter shuttle offers seating for 16 with optional video equipment, while a paratransit version comes with multiple wheelchair positions, seating for up to eight passengers and a choice of side or rear wheelchair lifts.

Both the cargo and passenger vans feature a side-door opening that's 4' 3" wide and 59 inches high, with a 72-inch height on high-roof versions. At the same time, their step-in height is only 19.9 inches. The Shuttle Bus has a power-operated split-entry door and step that's 38 inches wide.

Fuel-Efficient BlueTEC Diesel Power

All Mercedes-Benz Sprinters are equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 diesel (188 hp, 325 lb-ft) that gets 30 percent better fuel economy than a comparable gasoline engine. Recent independent tests showed up to 24.9 miles per gallon on the highway for the full-size commercial van. Standard equipment also includes a five-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel disc brakes and independent suspension in front as well as a solid axle with leaf springs at the rear. Several choices of springs, shock absorbers and stabilizer bars provide just the right suspension for each version of the Sprinter van.

Mercedes-Benz Safety

Every Sprinter comes with the safety features people have come to expect from Mercedes- Benz –ADAPTIVE ESP stability and rollover control, ABS anti-lock brakes, Brake Assist andtraction control. The driver and front passenger seats are equipped with standard multi-stage front air bags, and side curtain and torso air bags are optionally available. Other options include Bi-Xenon headlights, a tire pressure monitoring system and a Parktronic parking aid.

About Daimler Vans USA

Located in Montvale, NJ, Daimler Vans USA, LLC is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC responsible for sales and marketing of Sprinter commercial vehicles in the U.S. Marking the return of the three-pointed star to the U.S. light-duty commercial vehicle market, Daimler Vans USA markets the Sprinter van line through a network of Freightliner and select Mercedes-Benz dealerships. More information on Sprinter vans can be found at www.sprintervansusa.com.

Quick Reference:

Availability:

• Cargo Van (144", 170" and 170" Extended wheelbases, 2 roof heights, 3 GVWR)
• Passenger Van (144" and 170" wheelbases, 2 roof heights)
• Crew Van (144" and 170" wheelbases, 2 roof heights)
• Cab Chassis (144" and 170" wheelbases)
• MiniBus (Numerous configurations incl. Commuter, Hotel, Airport and Paratransit)

Select Standard Feature Highlights:

• 270°-hinged rear doors
• Sliding passenger-side cargo door
• Power front windows
• Automatic heating & air conditioning
• Three-point seat belts and headrests at all seating locations
• Multi-stage driver & passenger airbag

Select Optional Feature Highlights:

• High Roof
• Cargo lashing rails
• Cruise control
• Reversing warning system
• Sliding driver-side cargo door
• Side curtain & torso airbags
• Bi-Xenon headlights
• Parktronic
• Rear view camera
• Heavy duty suspension package

Best-In-Class Features:

• Cargo Capacity: 547 cu. ft.
• Payload Capacity: 5,358 lbs.
• Standing Height: 6' 6"
• Step-In-Height: 19.9"
• Rear Door Opening: 6' x 5' 2"
• Side Door Opening: 6' x 4' 3"
• Turning Radius: 54.6'