Mercedes-Benz will offer eight factory telematics packages with its third-generation 2019 Sprinter that allow fleet managers to better track preventive maintenance, routing, and driver behavior with the full-size van, the company has announced.
The more-connected cargo and people hauler will go on sale in Europe this summer and arrive in the U.S. later this year, Mercedes-Benz exectives told journalists in Amsterdam on April 13.
The 2019 Sprinter will launch with an array of new features, including Mercedes Pro Connect — a connectivity platform that bundles telematics, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a mobile app that’s accessible to fleet drivers.
Mercedes-Benz is also rolling out its Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system and revised user interface that, for the first time, offers a color touchscreen, messaging between a driver and fleet manager, and voice-enabled commands prompted by phrases such as “Hey Mercedes.”
The eight Mercedes Pro Connect options will help fleet managers optimize driver routes, better analyze driving styles, and remotely control vehicles.
The packages that will be offered globaly include:
- Optimized Assistance: Allows fleet managers to schedule maintenance and service, as well as providing roadside assistance to a driver at the push of a button.
- Efficient Fleet Management: Shows a vehicle’s status and location via a web or mobile device dashboard.
- Improved Navigation: Provides real-time traffic and updated map data for optimized routing.
- Efficient Driving Style Analysis: Allows fleet managers to isolate an individual driver’s fuel consumption.
- Simplified Fleet Communication: Enables direct communication between a fleet manager and driver via the Vehicle Management Tool.
- Digital Driver’s Log: Allows tracking of individual trips. Drivers can designate a trip as business, personal use, or commuting.
- Remote Control: Fleet managers can check whether a vehicle’s doors are locked or power windows are closed.
- Data Interface Mercedes-Benz Vans: Data from Sprinter and Metris vans can be integrated into non-Mercedes fleet management systems.
Several of the eight options will be offered at no cost, while others will be optional equipment. Mercedes-Benz will release pricing and more info later this year, according to the company.
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