The future of Sprinter Vans in question?

Steve_382 · 08-16-2009, 02:54 PM

Found this interesting comment. Makes sense I suppose. Anyone else hear this?

SprinterThe Mercedes vans, built in Germany and assembled from knockdown kits in South Carolina, will reportedly be dropped in favor of Fiat’s commercial vans. This should result in easier parts and service, and lower pricing.

http://www.allpar.com/model/upcoming.html

DisabledExplorers · 08-16-2009, 05:23 PM

Makes total sense as Chyrsler isn't working with DBenz any more and Fiat of course wants to increase US marketshare with their investment.
This summer I was in Germany and stopped by a huge offroad show. There were some cool Ducato & Iveco vans (owned by Fiat) that were 2wd or 4wd drive and have a huge world following. Not to mention quality diesel engines.

AndrewST · 08-17-2009, 03:31 PM

Was also attending the offroad show in Germany this year, to bad we couldn't grab a german beer

Each vehicule has it's own use and capacity but I assume the costs will remain even, no real price lowering I think...

Sorry for hi-jacking this topic, what do you mean by quality diesel engines?

DisabledExplorers · 08-18-2009, 03:12 AM

Quality might be pushing it...
I mean more like they have far more diesel options in vans than we have here. Plus compared to everyone's worry over the Ford 6.0L diesel Ivecco is no problem.

I would really like to get my hands on some of the Isuzu or Fuso rigs with a custom camper body. The Aussie's also build some really nice rigs.

I really would like to get back over to Germany next summer for that show again so I will post up here so we can meet up.

David_in_TX · 08-20-2009, 07:54 AM

If we get the Fiat Ducato here in the USA, I hope MURVI starts selling their RV's here. MURVI is a UK manufacturer and I think their Morello model is the perfect floor plan. The kitchen and bathroom compartment are in the rear with the back door opening to let you access the bathroom. Check out their movable bench seat which is able to be placed along the side, forward facing, or aft facing. This thing has forward facing seat belts for 7, or a side facing gaucho. If you are listening Sportsmobile, we need you to design a seat like this.

http://www.murvi.co.uk/morello.htm

AndrewST · 08-20-2009, 04:35 PM

Thank you David, interesting link.

If you are after a 4x4 van, Iveco 4x4 comes only in a 2 seater cabine and the rear has to be build up.
Regarding the ducato, I didn't see any 4x4 but didn't search for information.

David_in_TX · 08-20-2009, 07:01 PM

The Fiat Ducatos are all front wheel drive.
The MURVI Morello can be built on a Mercedes Sprinter also...

Quote:

Originally Posted by AndrewST

Thank you David, interesting link.

If you are after a 4x4 van, Iveco 4x4 comes only in a 2 seater cabine and the rear has to be build up.
Regarding the ducato, I didn't see any 4x4 but didn't search for information.