Mercedes shows off next-gen Sprinter’s cabin

Mercedes-Benz has released the first interior pictures of its all-new, third-generation Sprinter ahead of the large van's unveiling in February 2018 and its Australian release late next year.

The images, released late last night, preview the all-new commercial van's more car-like cabin that features high levels of connectivity and a WiFi connection for the first time.

Claimed to help fleets incorporate the Sprinter into its IT infrastructure and inventory control system, it offer advanced telematics well beyond what most operators are using.

The German car-maker will offer its networking and telematics to companies purchasing the Sprinter under its Mercedes PRO connect package.

The system works with embedded sensors and communication modules within the van that enable the operator to monitor the Sprinter on the move.

The same device also allows remote control of the load areas and even goes as far as automatically scheduling servicing, when needed.

Other new tech is said to include a "comprehensive driver assistance systems" that could hint at a semi-autonomous cruise control.

As well as enhanced tech inside, Mercedes-Benz has also confirmed two new pure-electric versions, with the small eVito now on sale in Europe and the bigger eSprinter to follow in 2019.

Mercedes-Benz Vans Australia & New Zealand's PR and Corporate Communications Manager, Blake Vincent, confirmed the new Sprinter will be released locally in the fourth quarter of next year, and that both the eVito and eSprinter will eventually also be made available here.

"Yes, we expect to sell the eVito and eSprinter in Australia," he said. "The eVito, which became available for ordering in Germany some days ago, will kick off the process next year, followed by the eSprinter in 2019.

"When series-production of electric Sprinter and Vito starts to ramp up at the end of 2018, the intention is that electric vans will start to be offered to all our customers, including those in key markets outside of Germany, however, when this translates to production availability specifically for Australia is still unclear.

"We expect there to be significant interest in both Australia and New Zealand. We already regularly receive enquiries about electric vans from major fleet companies who are looking to improve efficiency and sustainability in their operations.

"Initially only one electric van was planned, but now both Sprinter and Vito will be available, which only strengthens the potential and our interest in launching locally."

Set to be the most advanced delivery van ever, the new Sprinter has a hard act to follow. Since the first generation went on sale back in 1995, Mercedes has sold more than 3.3 million Sprinters in 130 countries, making it one of the world's best-selling commercial vehicles.