Mercedes-Benz SA has announced a local conversion project for its 23-seater Sprinter. Here’s pricing and details.

This is the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 23-seater Inkanyezi. Before, these vehicles would be purchased by customers and then converted, but now they’re being converted by Mercedes-Benz SA at its facilities in East London.

Marinus Venter, Head of Product and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Vans SA, announces, “To deepen our commitment to the local taxi industry and in support of the South African economy, our 23-seater Sprinter Inkanyezi vehicles are now being converted locally at our East London conversion facility. This means that taxi owners will be able to immediately operate and earn income from the purchased vehicle instead of waiting for a conversion.”

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Inkanyezi means ‘the star’ in isiZulu and is now available from Mercedes-Benz dealerships. It’s a long-wheelbase 516 CDI bus that can seat 23 and despite its humble role of people moving, it features what Merc claims are “best-in-class” safety tech like seat anchorage points, adaptive brake lights, while optional extras like active brake assist, distronic, parking assist, lane-keeping assist, blind spot assist with rear cross-traffic alert and a 360-degree camera are available.

Thanks to its localisation and conversion program, the optional extras like parcel shelves, USB ports and tow bar are plug and play, and Merc says they can be fitted quickly at dealers across the country.

The vehicle comes with a side step to facilitate easy access and there’s a durable non-slip Marley floor in the cabin.

The 516 CDI designation refers to the engine and this bus features a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder diesel with 120 kW and 330 Nm. An automatic gearbox is the transmission of choice and it is rear-wheel driven.

By converting the vehicles in-house, they can be sold quicker and in turn, the taxi industry can start making money off of it right away. There’s a high utilisation rate and Merc notes that its purchase price, fuel, maintenance, and repair costs make it profitable for operators.

How much does the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Inkanyezi cost in South Africa?

Mercedes Benz Sprinter Inkanyezi 516 CDI R945 000

The above price includes VAT, and the vehicle is sold with a 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty. Service intervals are every 20 000 km.

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