Who builds Mercedes vans?

Mercedes-Benz Vans builds its own van models as part of the Mercedes-Benz Group, using a global network of production facilities.

Mercedes-Benz Vans is the commercial-vehicle arm of the German automaker, and its production footprint spans Europe, North America, and other regions. The division operates multiple sites to assemble variants such as the Sprinter, Vito, and related models, with production strategy adapting to market needs and electrification initiatives.

Global production footprint

Mercedes-Benz Vans maintains a distributed manufacturing network. The following overview highlights the main regional hubs that assemble Mercedes vans for global markets.

• Germany — Core European production hub for multiple van lines, including large-model variants and electrified versions, with plants dedicated to final assembly, tooling, and testing.


• United States — Local assembly capacity for the North American market at a Mercedes-Benz Vans facility designed to tailor configurations to regional customer needs.


• Other regions — The company also runs or contracts manufacturing in additional regions to supply Asia, Latin America, and other markets, ensuring regional adaptability.

Note: The exact plant assignments can shift with new models, product cycles, and corporate strategy. For precise, model-by-model production data, consult Mercedes-Benz Vans' official production and plant information.

Model and electrification context

Mercedes-Benz Vans continues to push electrification across its lineup, with electric variants of its core models sharing the same global manufacturing footprint. The eSprinter and other electric versions are integrated into the same regional networks that build combustion-engine vans, helping to realize the company's roadmap toward sustainable mobility.

Summary

Mercedes-Benz Vans is built by the Mercedes-Benz Vans unit of the Mercedes-Benz Group, across a global network of production sites. The network supports several van models and is evolving with electrification; for exact plant assignments, consult official sources.

Are the Dodge and Mercedes Sprinter vans the same?

Yes, Dodge, Freightliner, and even Volkswagen have all built these near-identical vans, with only the differences being a badge and some minor interior changes.

Where are Mercedes vans built?

Mercedes vans are manufactured in several locations around the world, with a key North American plant in Charleston, South Carolina, and other facilities in Germany, Algeria, Argentina, and China. The Charleston plant builds the vans from parts in a full assembly process, while older facilities in the U.S. used to perform semi-knocked-down assembly (reassembling imported kits).
 
Primary production locations

• United States: The facility in Charleston, South Carolina, is the only plant in the U.S. that conducts full part-by-part assembly for the North American market. 
• Germany: Plants in Düsseldorf and Ludwigsfelde are major production sites. 
• Argentina: The Juan Manuel Fangio Plant in Buenos Aires produces Sprinter vans. 
• Algeria: The plant in Tiaret is another production location. 
• China: Mercedes-Benz has partnerships for van production with companies like Kawei and JAC Motors in China. 

What's better, Ford Transit or Mercedes Sprinter?

The choice between a Ford Transit and a Mercedes Sprinter often comes down to budget and maintenance versus off-road capability and luxury. The Transit is typically more affordable and easier to service due to its common parts and widespread dealer network. The Sprinter is better suited for challenging terrain with its available 4x4 option and offers a more premium feel, though it is generally more expensive and can be harder to maintain.
 
This video compares the off-road capabilities of the Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter: 55sWe're the RussosYouTube · Jul 27, 2022
Ford Transit

• Pros:
  • Lower cost: Generally has a lower starting price.
  • Easier/cheaper maintenance: Shares many parts with F-150s, making service and parts more accessible and affordable.
  • Wider service network: More Ford dealers mean more service options and less wait time.
  • Taller standard interior: Has a higher standard interior height, which is advantageous for taller people.
  • AWD: Offers All-Wheel Drive, which is sufficient for most non-extreme off-road situations.
• Cons:
  • Less off-road focused: AWD is not as capable as the Sprinter's 4x4 for very challenging terrain. 

This video explains the advantages of the Ford Transit for camper builds: 2:49SHELBY BURNS | ADVENTURE | ROAD TRIPS | OUTDOORSInstagram · Jun 19, 2025
Mercedes Sprinter

• Pros:
  • Superior off-road capability: Available with true 4x4 and higher ground clearance, ideal for more demanding terrain. 
  • More cargo options: Offers a higher maximum cargo volume. 
  • Premium feel: Often perceived as more luxurious. 
  • Longer warranty: Includes a 100,000-mile warranty on diesel engines. 
• Cons:
  • Higher cost: Typically has a higher purchase price. 
  • More complex maintenance: Maintenance can be more expensive and difficult due to specialized European parts and service procedures. 
  • Fewer service centers: A smaller network of specialized dealers can lead to longer wait times for service. 

This video discusses the key differences between the Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter: 56sAdvanced RVYouTube · Jan 31, 2025

Who makes Mercedes Vans?

Mercedes-Benz Group AG
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a light commercial vehicle (van) built by Mercedes-Benz Group AG of Stuttgart, Germany as a large van, chassis cab, minibus, and pickup truck.