Description

Mercedes Sprinter Ambulance; The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has been a popular platform for ambulance conversions for over two decades. First introduced in Europe in 1995, the Sprinter van was designed with ambulance conversion in mind with its spacious cargo area, rugged chassis, multiple wheelbase options, and fuel-efficient diesel engines.

Mercedes-Benz themselves developed Sprinter ambulance models for European emergency medical services. But the versatile commercial van also became popular in North America, Asia, and other parts of the world for third-party upfitters to convert into ambulances. The Sprinter established itself as a top choice for private ambulance fleets, hospitals, firefighters, and EMT services looking for a reliable and customizable ambulance.

The current third-generation Sprinter van continues to excel as a versatile ambulance platform. Its front-wheel drive architecture maximizes the patient compartment space. Advanced safety systems and connectivity make it easier for EMTs to focus on patient care while on the road. And a choice of 4-cylinder or V6 turbo diesel engines deliver fuel efficiency important for ambulances running 24/7 operations. Customizable lighting, storage, climate control, and power systems allow the Sprinter to be tailored for everything from basic patient transport to intensive care. More than two decades later, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter remains a global leader as a go-to platform for ambulance conversions.

Exterior Design

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers a versatile and functional exterior designed specifically for ambulance duty. With multiple wheelbase options, there is flexibility to customize the Sprinter ambulance to your specifications.

Dimensions and Footprint

Built on the long-wheelbase Sprinter 3500 chassis, the ambulance body offers a lengthy 254 inches between the wheels with an overall vehicle length up to 290 inches. This maximizes the usable interior space of the patient compartment while still allowing for a tight turning radius and maneuverability in urban settings. Despite the sizable footprint, the Sprinter handles more like a midsize van rather than a full-size commercial vehicle.

Styling and Aerodynamics

In line with Mercedes’ reputation for stylish design, the Sprinter features smooth body lines and a front fascia that improves aerodynamics. This not only enhances fuel economy but reduces wind noise in the cabin. Large swept-back headlights provide excellent illumination at night.

Entry and Exit Points

The Sprinter ambulance contains multiple access points for emergency personnel and patients. Wide-opening side and rear doors make loading stretchers effortless while sliding side doors allow attendants easy entry. There are also entry points from the driver’s cab into the patient area. Non-slip steps at the side and back doors ensure safe footing when entering or exiting the vehicle.

Patient Compartment

Mercedes Sprinter Ambulance; The patient compartment of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ambulance is designed for maximum efficiency and comfort.

Layout and Ergonomics

The interior layout allows EMTs to access the patient quickly and easily. The modular rail system enables flexible configuration and installation of medical equipment. Strategic handholds, accessible storage, and non-slip flooring optimize workflow and safety.

Stretcher System

The Sprinter accommodates a variety of high-quality ambulance stretchers. The electric stretcher lock-down securely fixes the stretcher in place while allowing quick release when needed.

Medical Equipment Integration

The Sprinter ambulance seamlessly integrates lifesaving medical devices like defibrillators, suction units, and oxygen systems. Multiple power outlets enable operation of electronics. The vehicle electrical system handles the demanding power requirements of medical gear.

Climate Control

Ensuring ideal temperature control maximizes patient comfort. The Sprinter has a high-performance A/C system with integrated auxiliary heater, chilling the ambulance quickly even in extreme heat. Vents strategically placed throughout the cabin distribute air efficiently.

Powertrain and Performance

The Mercedes Sprinter ambulance offers powerful yet fuel-efficient engine options to suit the needs of emergency medical services.

Engine Options

The Sprinter ambulance comes equipped with a 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine that generates 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. This robust powerplant provides ample acceleration when transporting patients to critical care.

For even more power, the Sprinter is available with a 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine tuned to deliver 190 hp and 361 lb-ft of torque. This top-of-the-line engine gives the Sprinter ambulance strong towing capabilities to haul specialty medical equipment.

Power and Torque Figures

The standard 3.0L V6 turbo diesel generates 188 hp at 3,800 rpm and 325 lb-ft of torque at 1,400 – 2,400 rpm.

The high-output 3.0L V6 produces 190 hp at 3,800 rpm and a massive 361 lb-ft of torque at 1,400 – 2,400 rpm.

This abundant torque allows the Sprinter ambulance to haul heavy loads with ease. The engines’ torque curves stay flat for a broad power band.

Towing Capacity

The Mercedes Sprinter ambulance has a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 lbs when properly equipped with a tow package. This enables the Sprinter to pull trailers loaded with medical equipment, generators, or other support vehicles to incident sites.

Fuel Economy

Despite their robust power, the Sprinter ambulance engines deliver excellent fuel efficiency. Models equipped with the standard 3.0L V6 turbo diesel get up to 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

The more powerful 3.0L high-output diesel manages 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. This level of fuel efficiency reduces operating costs for emergency medical services.

Driver Compartment

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ambulance balances functionality with comfort in the driver compartment. Controls and instrumentation are ergonomically designed for ease of use while maintaining the focus on patient care.

The adjustable steering wheel and seat allow drivers to customize the ideal driving position. Large windows and properly adjusted mirrors ensure good visibility and sight lines around the vehicle. The available rearview camera provides visibility behind the ambulance when reversing.

Useful cabin tech features include Bluetooth connectivity, voice control, and navigation. An 8-inch color touchscreen display makes interacting with tech features straightforward. USB ports throughout the cabin allow connection of mobile devices.

Thoughtful storage options keep the cabin organized and clutter-free. Cupholders, door pockets, overhead storage, and a large center console provide ample space for daily essentials. Underseat storage compartments offer additional room out of sight.

Safety and Technology

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ambulance features the latest safety and technology to protect patients, drivers, and passengers. Some key features include:

• Advanced collision avoidance systems such as Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist, Crosswind Assist, and Attention Assist. These systems use radar, cameras, and sensors to detect potential collisions and automatically brake if the driver doesn’t respond in time. This helps prevent accidents and reduce collision severity.

• Standard rearview camera and available 360-degree camera system provides complete visibility around the ambulance. The cameras reduce blindspots to help drivers safely back up and maneuver in tight spaces. Views appear on the central dashboard screen.

• Cutting-edge telematics and connectivity with Mercedes PRO connect. Features include vehicle monitoring, location tracking, geofencing, maintenance management, and more. Fleet managers can access data and insights to optimize operations.

• Patient monitoring equipment can connect wirelessly to onboard systems for real-time data tracking. Vital signs are displayed on screens accessible to EMTs providing care in the back. The ambulance’s WiFi hotspot enables connection of additional devices.

• High speed 4G LTE connectivity through Mercedes me connect provides fast and reliable internet while transporting patients. Useful for navigation, traffic info, ambulance dispatch, electronic patient care reporting, and consultation with doctors from the ambulance.

The Sprinter ambulance leverages Mercedes’ latest developments in safety, visibility, connectivity, and cloud-based fleet management. Advanced driver assistance systems, 360-degree cameras, patient monitoring integration, and high-speed internet keep patients and crew safe and informed.

Customization Mercedes Sprinter Ambulance

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ambulance allows for extensive customization to meet the needs of emergency medical services. Here are some of the top options for conversion and personalization:

Conversion Options

• Type I Ambulance – Basic life support configuration with attendant seat, cot, cabinetry, and basic medical equipment.

• Type II Ambulance – Advanced life support configuration with more medical devices, monitors, and enhanced interior storage.

• Type III Ambulance – The most advanced ambulance with expanded patient compartment and capacity for more medical personnel and equipment.

• Specialty Vehicles – Can be outfitted as a command center, mass casualty unit, or other custom emergency vehicle.

Additional Equipment Packages

• Lighting Package – Upgraded interior and exterior lighting for scene illumination. Includes LED scene lights and red/white strobe lights.

• Hydraulic Lift Package – Power-assisted hydraulic lift system for easier loading and unloading of the cot.

• Communications Package – Radios, antennas, and onboard IT equipment for enhanced communications.

• Infection Control Package – Antimicrobial coatings and materials to facilitate cleaning and prevent transmission of pathogens.

Paint Colors and Wraps

• The Sprinter ambulance comes standard in white but can be painted in custom colors. Popular choices include red, blue, orange, and green.

• Vinyl wraps can be applied over the OEM paint for brighter, reflective colors with custom designs. Wraps are more affordable than repainting.

• Consider reflective decals or chevron patterns on the rear to improve visibility and safety. County or city seals can be added for a personalized look.

The Sprinter platform offers near endless possibilities for specialized emergency vehicle conversion and customization. Consult with the knowledgeable Mercedes-Benz dealers and upfitters to create the ideal Sprinter ambulance for your needs and budget.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping a Mercedes Sprinter Ambulance in optimal working condition. As a specialized commercial vehicle, it requires careful servicing and upkeep.

Service Intervals

The Mercedes Sprinter Ambulance is built for heavy usage, with service intervals around every 10,000 miles. Oil changes, fluid checks, brake pad replacements, battery testing, and more should be performed at regular mileage-based intervals. Adhering to the recommended service schedule helps prevent breakdowns or malfunctions when transporting patients.

Warranty Coverage

New Sprinter Ambulances come with a 3 year/36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. There are also extended warranty options to provide longer coverage for major components. Mercedes provides comprehensive warranty support to cover repairs and replacements that arise during normal use. This gives added peace-of-mind for dependable ambulance operation.

Parts Availability

As an OEM manufacturer of the Sprinter platform, Mercedes has a vast inventory of genuine parts available for ambulance repairs and maintenance. Common wear-and-tear items like brakes, belts, filters are widely stocked. Even for specialized ambulance components, Mercedes dealers can source parts through their network rather than relying on third-party aftermarket alternatives. This makes it easier to perform repairs and get ambulances back on the road quickly.

Pricing

The base MSRP for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter starts at around $35,000 for the van model. Additional conversion costs for the ambulance specs and layout typically range from $80,000 to $150,000 or more depending on features and customization.

Some key pricing factors for Sprinter ambulance models include:

• Ambulance Conversion Package – The standard conversion package for transforming the Sprinter van into an ambulance ranges from $80,000-$100,000. This includes the patient compartment buildout, cabinetry, electrical upgrades, lighting, oxygen system, and other required ambulance components.

• Options & Upgrades – Optional upgrades for Sprinter ambulances add to the price. Some popular options include:

  • Higher roof height (+$2,000)
  • Diesel engine upgrade (+$3,000)
  • 4WD/AWD (+$5,500)
  • Additional medical equipment like powered stretchers (+$8,000)
  • Graphics packages (+$3,000)
  • Emergency lights and sirens (+$6,000)

• Custom Fabrication – For specialized or proprietary ambulance layouts and designs, custom fabrication can add $20,000 or more to the total cost. This allows departments to get a fully customized interior.

• Discounts – Manufacturers and dealers sometimes offer discounts for bulk orders, negotiated pricing, or government/municipal purchases. Discounts of 5-10% off MSRP and conversion costs may be available.

So in summary, a base Sprinter ambulance with standard conversion package and minimal options will start around $115,000 – $125,000. Fully loaded units with AWD, diesel engine, and lots of medical equipment can surpass $150,000. Exact pricing depends on specifications and customization.

Competitor Comparison Mercedes Sprinter Ambulance

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is one of the most popular full-size vans converted into ambulances, but it faces stiff competition from other leading manufacturers. Key alternatives in the ambulance and EMT van market include:

Ford Transit

The Ford Transit is another top choice for ambulance conversions with its abundance of cargo space and configurable options. The Transit comes in multiple lengths and roof heights to accommodate different needs. It offers thrifty gas mileage and can be outfitted with the same types of options as the Sprinter, such as emergency lighting and top-of-the-line safety tech. However, the Transit has a lower maximum payload capacity of 4,560 pounds compared to the Sprinter’s 5,000+ pounds. It also lacks the brand prestige and long-term reliability reputation of Mercedes-Benz.

RAM ProMaster

The RAM ProMaster is a budget-friendly choice for ambulance conversions with competitive pricing. It comes standard with useful tech like a backup camera and offers ample interior space for transporting patients. Fuel economy is another advantage. However, the ProMaster lacks the sophisticated safety systems found on the Sprinter and has a rougher, more utilitarian interior ambiance. The lower MSRP makes it attractive, but reliability and resale value lag behind Mercedes.

When it comes to capability and quality, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter remains the premier choice for ambulance conversions. Its unibody construction provides a solid foundation, and Mercedes offers multiple engine choices with plenty of power. The Sprinter leads in payload capacity, technology, comfort and overall prestige. Reliability and safety records are also superior to competitors. Of course, the Sprinter commands a premium price, but operators get what they pay for in terms of world-class engineering and cutting-edge innovations specific to emergency services. For high-intensity medical transport, no other van matches the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

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