Dodge Launches Sprinter Cab/Chassis to U.S. Commercial Van Market
* Light weight design, easy body installation, and numerous body options for virtually any commercial need * Designed with the body builder in mind, smart work-truck alternative that offers total business solution * Like Sprinter vans, next evolution in full-line commercial product portfolio
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., March 3 -- Dodge has taken steps to extend its commercial market reach with the formal launch of the Sprinter cab/chassis. The vehicle was officially introduced at the National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA) Show in Baltimore.
Designed with the body builder in mind, Sprinter cab/chassis enables easy upfit for virtually any commercial need. The cab/chassis' versatility begins with its flat frame rails, which provide a good mounting surface. Upfit specialists also will appreciate features such as the fuel filler neck and nozzle integrated with the cab, which eliminates the need to reroute the fuel fill system or build bodies around the fuel fill system. Taillight wiring harnesses may be lengthened easily to fit extended utility bodies, or taillights deleted altogether if needs require. Other available options include a rear window for the cab and wiring harnesses for lighting the interior of upfit bodies.
"More than ever, Dodge is dedicated to developing total business solutions for our fleet and commercial customers," says Craig Fisher, director of marketing and product planning. "Like our Sprinter vans, the cab/chassis, with its quality construction and adaptability for nearly every business need imaginable, is a dynamic product for a diverse commercial customer audience."
The Sprinter cab/chassis shares many of the attributes already demonstrating value to Sprinter cargo and passenger van customers throughout North America. Among its many cost of ownership advantages and customer benefits are market leading fuel economy, long maintenance intervals, low emissions, power steering and brakes, and reduced external noise.
Like Sprinter, a high-performance premium Turbo-Diesel engine powers the cab/chassis. The state-of-the-art 5-cylinder, 2.7-liter engine efficiently produces 154 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque, enough to handle customers' business needs while conserving fuel and operating with minimal external noise. And, like the Sprinter passenger and cargo models, the cab/chassis' automatic five-speed transmission system ensures driver comfort and a continually low fuel consumption range and is available in two GVWRs, 8,550 or 9,900 lbs., and three wheelbase offerings of 118, 140, or 158 inches.
Efficiency
Today's business realities require managers to take a hard look at every opportunity to improve efficiency. Dodge Sprinter cab/chassis provides excellent value for managers looking to improve their businesses' bottom lines by reducing expenditures for fuel and vehicle maintenance. Consistent with Sprinter's envied reputation and performance heritage, the cab/chassis outperforms the competition when it comes to fuel efficiency. Independent testing confirms fuel economy of more than 25 miles per gallon, with a vehicle range of approximately 550 miles. Particularly important to business customers, as their eye is necessarily on the "bottom line," long maintenance intervals of up to 20,000 miles (with the ASSYST maintenance option) mean less time in the shop and more time on the road -- without sacrificing performance.
Safety
At Dodge, safety is a core principal behind every design. The Sprinter cab/chassis not only transports people and cargo, but also transports both safely. Four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system (ABS) and integrated acceleration skid control (ASR) are standard. Independent front wheel suspension offers improved road holding. Also, full size driver and passenger airbags are available, helping lessen the chance of serious injury in front-impact collisions. Rugged body structure and extra length and increased rigidity in the cab section improves performance in crash situations, and 2500 models are equipped with Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Comfort
The Sprinter cab/chassis is ergonomically designed for functionality without sacrificing comfort. The cab provides excellent all-around vision for drivers and passengers. Standard power steering ensures ease of handling, and excellent drivability and a tight turning radius makes the vehicle easy to maneuver in tight areas, such as busy city streets or small delivery areas. Sprinter cab/chassis' spacious interior provides ample legroom and freedom of movement, and ergonomically designed seats take the pain out of long journeys. Collectively, these features make the vehicle drive and feel more like a passenger car than a commercial workhorse.
The Dodge Sprinter cab/chassis, now being sold in the United States for the first time after years of success in the European market, is a natural companion to the Dodge Sprinter cargo and passenger vans introduced last year. Revolutionizing the commercial market for light and medium duty vehicles, these class-leading products are the latest in a commercial expansion designed to meet business customer expectations, while simultaneously paving the way for the introduction of additional Dodge innovations for the U.S. commercial vehicle market.
"We predicted great success for the Sprinter in North America, and not simply because the vehicle performed well in other markets," added Fisher. "The Sprinter's global success is due to its state-of-the-art design tailored to the needs of the commercial van customer. Similarly, we're confident U.S. customers will recognize the cab/chassis model for its quality and ability to be configured for virtually any commercial use."
Internet Site
Additional information and news about the cab/chassis, Sprinter and Dodge is available by visiting the company's web site at www.dodge.com .
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