DaimlerChrysler Vans LLC, the U.S. distributor of Sprinter Vans, has announced the addition of 1,800 Sprinter vans to UPS's U.S. fleet.

The first delivery of 400 Sprinter vehicles is expected by year-end, with the rest of the vans delivered by March 2003.
"We're extremely pleased to work with UPS to incorporate the Sprinter into its U.S. fleet," said Tim A. Reuss, president and CEO of DaimlerChrysler Vans.
"DaimlerChrysler's Sprinter vans are a solid addition to UPS's delivery fleet in the U.S.," said Ron Kirby, corporate automotive manager for UPS. "We've used 750 Sprinter vans with great success in our Western Europe fleet for more than seven years. They work well on our longer routes because of their fuel economy, plus the longer periods between maintenance translate directly into lower operational costs for those routes. In addition, the Sprinter meets the EPA's guidelines for Low Emission Vehicles, a crucial part of UPS's fleet strategy."
Outside the United States, UPS employs Sprinter vans in seven countries including the United Kingdom, Germany and Switzerland. In Canada, nearly 70 Sprinter vans are in use.
Last year, nine Sprinter delivery vehicles were delivered and put through extensive testing by UPS as part of a one-year pilot program. The 158-inch-long wheelbase, high-roof vans were tested on high mileage, rural routes throughout the United States. The drivers and mechanics in the pilot program all provided very positive reports on their experience with the Sprinter.
Dr. Rolf Bartke, senior vice president of DaimlerChrysler AG and head of the Mercedes-Benz Vans Business Unit said, "Since its introduction in 1995, Sprinter has consistently dominated the global market for Class 2 and 3 commercial vans and remains one of the most successful products of the entire DaimlerChrysler Commercial Vehicles Division."