Sprinter Vans Join DaimlerChrysler's Automobility Program

June 20, 2005 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - 
  • Customers to receive $500 incentive toward wheelchair lift
  • Ideal for paratransit and automobility use
  • With segment's most best-in-class advantages, Sprinter offers better fuel economy and more options, packages and customizations than any other full-size van

North America ’s top-performing full-size van has been added to DaimlerChrysler’s automobility program. Customers who purchase a 2005 Dodge or Freightliner Sprinter cargo or passenger van will receive a $500 incentive discount toward the installation of a wheelchair lift.

Marketed under Dodge and Freightliner, the Sprinter successfully marries automobility and paratransit needs with the market advantages of a premium vehicle that is user-friendly for family, caregivers or a medical facility staff.

“More than any other vehicle, the Sprinter meets the needs of automobility and paratransit users,” said Pamela Niekamp, Senior Manager – Commercial Vehicle Marketing and Product Planning, Chrysler Group.  “We are pleased this new incentive will allow more special needs customers to enjoy the enhanced safety, design and performance advantages of the Sprinter.”

Dodge and Freightliner Sprinter models feature the most best-in-class advantages in the segment: fuel economy (25 miles per gallon), versatility, turning diameter (36.7 feet), cargo (473 cubic feet) and payload capacity (4,824 lbs.), interior compartment accessibility, load floor height (17 inches), side step-in height (17 inches) and widest rear door opening (270 degrees). Sprinter also features the longest maintenance intervals, with up to 20,000 miles between oil changes.

Boasting a unibody construction design that reduces curb weight and maximizes payload capacity, Sprinter is the most versatile commercial van on the market. It is available in three wheelbases (118, 140 and 158 inches) and two roof heights (64 and 73 inches), allowing for considerable interior stand-up height. Sprinter is cost-effective to modify due to its high roof and low floor with ultra-low side access for easy ramp adaptations and installations.  Ramps may be controlled from either inside or outside the vehicle. Nearly vertical side walls combined with a high roof provide unequalled space (247 cubic feet) in even the smallest models and high seating with 360-degree viewing offer exceptional visibility to both driver and passengers.

Powered by a premium 2.7-liter, five-cylinder Common-Rail Direct Injection (CDI) Turbo Diesel engine, Sprinter models continue to be among the most efficient light- and medium-duty vehicles in their class. With market-leading fuel economy of 25 miles-per-gallon and fuel capacity of 26.4 gallons, Sprinter has a driving range of 660 miles on a single tank of fuel that is five to nine gallons smaller than the competition. A five-speed automatic transmission with AutostickÒtechnology gives the driver more options for engaging the gear that best suits the driving situation. The ergonomically designed Sprinter cab provides 360-degree viewing for both the driver and passenger.

Standard features on Dodge and Freightliner Sprinter models include power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, full-size driver and front-passenger air bags, headrests and three-point seatbelts with pretensioners. Air conditioning with automatic temperature control and filtration, adjustable seats, driver and passenger armrests, anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist System (BAS) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Acceleration Skid Control (ASR), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) on Sprinter 2500 models and three adjustable headlight settings are also standard.

The first of its kind in the automotive industry, the DaimlerChrysler Automobility Program was created in 1987. For more information, visit www.dc-automobility.com.


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