The Sprinter 315 and Sprinter 318 will be optionally available with a 330 kg increase in GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) from early 2008.

This new factory-fitted option is available for all three model types in the Sprinter 315 and 318 ranges: van, cab-chassis and dual cab-chassis.

The increase in GVM is brought about by several factory-fitted technical enhancements. These include:

• Reinforcing both the front and rear axles (front and rear axle load ratings become 1,800 kg and 2,430 kg respectively)
• Adapting the vehicle’s ESP® Electronic Stability Control unit for the possibility of added vehicle weight
• Adapting the vehicle’s braking system in preparation for the added weight to carry
• Enhancements to specific chassis components such as springs and anti-roll bars
• Additional welding on the vehicle’s body shell and frame

This option has a recommended retail price of only $2,000.

Effectively, this new option offers an increase in load carrying capacity of between 15 and almost 19 percent, depending on the Sprinter model chosen, and for a price premium of between only three-and-a-half and four-and-a-half percent of vehicle price.

“This new GVM increase for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 315 and 318 offers a great return, especially for customers who will make good use of the additional cargo carrying capacity for their business,” said Ken Matthews, managing director for commercial vehicles at DaimlerChrysler Australia/Pacific.

“The ability to carry more cargo offers numerous benefits to van operators, many of which relate to the potential for increased revenue, making the option for greater GVM in these two popular models an easy choice.”

This new factory-fitted option offers numerous advantages to customers, especially those who purchase the Sprinter 315 or 318 for a specific purpose requiring additional equipment, such as enclosed refrigeration transport or for use as a motor home. The additional 330 kg in GVM means the weight impost brought about by such specific-purpose additions, such as a refrigerated cooling unit, are minimised, allowing owners to carry more cargo.