With open customizable space perfect for living accommodations and carrying gear, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has become the go-to house on wheels for many adventurers. The third-generation Sprinter is about to hit the market, and it will now be made in America.
When Mercedes started work on the next-generation Sprinter in 2015, it announced it would bring production to the United States. After two years of construction the new production facility in North Charleston, S.C., is now up and running.
American Money and Jobs
So far, Mercedes has spent about $500 million on the new state-of-the-art production facility. Auto industry cash infusions are a welcome sight for many Americans.
The facility also already employs more than 900 people, which should grow to 1,300 by 2020. Estimates also suggest that suppliers for the new facility will create an additional 600 new jobs in North Charleston.
Amazon Becomes Largest Sprinter Customer in the World
Amazon recently was the first to take delivery of an American made Sprinter. Amazon’s new partnership with Mercedes-Benz includes delivery of 20,000 vans for small businesses all across America.
These Amazon-emblazoned Sprinters will support its new Delivery Service Partner program. Mercedes said, “Small business owners will work with third-party fleet management companies to procure their customized vans and get special leases in order to keep their startup costs low.”
New 2018 Sprinter
With the new third-generation Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, the brand refines an already proven product. The highlights are an all-new multimedia system, more comfortable seats, and a full suite of modern driver assistance systems.
The U.S. is already the second-largest market in the world for the Sprinter van. This new American production facility and massive partnership with Amazon will only bolster sales.
The van life is strong at Mercedes, and now it’s American made.
