Mercedes Sustaineer: The eco sprinter that filters the ambient air

Daimler has all sorts of inventions in the technology study put in to show how ecological a van can be. Solar cells and a new heating concept should, for example, increase the range of the batteries. Recycled materials demonstrate the potential of the circular economy. In addition, fine dust filters on the front module and underbody filter the ambient air. Many smaller innovations round off the concept. In its press release, the manufacturer speaks of an “innovation driver” and the “mobility of the future”.

The name of the particularly green sprinter is Mercedes from the words Sustainability and Pioneer. The Group has put a number of innovations into it to improve the quality of life in cities, the climate and the health and safety of drivers. The fully electric E-Sprinter has a solar module of around 4.8 square meters on the roof, which is supposed to provide “several thousand additional kilometers” of range every year. The company’s own green electricity reduces the vehicle’s CO2 footprint, half of which comes from the electricity mix during the usage phase. This also reduces the CO2 emissions per delivery.

The large cab and the constant opening of the T ures ensure that the interior heater massively reduces the range of the vehicles. That is why Mercedes not only heats the steering wheel but also the seat belt. Thanks to the many temperature receptors in the chest area, this ensures a pleasant feeling of warmth. The effect occurs faster than with seat heating. In addition, Mercedes is thinking about zonal air conditioning that only heats and cools the area around the driver. The thermal management should also use the waste heat from the drive train for the heating system. Insulations with, for example, infrared-reflecting film round off the indoor climate concept.

In addition to the low-noise drive special tires should ensure particularly low noise emissions. The sensor-controlled Speed ​​Delivery Door is not only more ergonomic and offers greater efficiency, but also closes more quietly than conventional doors. It closes and opens fully automatically. For better air, Mercedes has installed an interior filter that neutralizes all gases as well as fine dust and pollen. A special molecular sieve makes it possible to filter all kinds of odors. The Sustaineer also has two filters from the specialist company Mann + Hummel for the outside air. The one on the rear axle catches particles that are blown up. In the front there is a second module and a sensor that measures the fine dust concentration. According to the manufacturer, both reduce particle emissions around the car by over 50 percent. Cast brake discs also reduce fine dust emissions from lining wear.

Conservation of resources through the use of recyclates is also a top priority for Mercedes. The underbody paneling consists of recycled propylene and used tires. The plastic of the filling material from recycled household waste. The Israeli startup UBQ breaks down organic waste into its natural components and uses it to create the material. The partition wall to the hold consists of natural straw panels.

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