Mercedes-Benz Vans started construction on its approximately $500 million new Sprinter plant for the North American market in North Charleston, South Carolina.

According to company officials, “with this new full-scale plant, Mercedes-Benz Vans will offer faster and more individualized supply to its customers. The new plant is an expansion of the existing van assembly site. Mercedes-Benz Vans is expected to create up to 1,300 jobs.”

It is estimated that suppliers will create approximately 400 new jobs in and around North Charleston. First the body shop of the new plant will be constructed, followed by the paint shop and the assembly lines later this year. Production of the next-generation Sprinter is planned to begin before the end of the decade.

Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans said, "Today we are writing automotive history in South Carolina. The groundbreaking also marks an important milestone for our growth strategy 'Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global': With our new plant we will continue with our success story in North America even more dynamically."

Governor Nikki Haley said, "Today's groundbreaking, and the 1,300 jobs it means, will build on the successful partnership that our friends at Daimler and Mercedes-Benz Vans have enjoyed with our state for years. We are proud to say that Mercedes-Benz vans will now be made in South Carolina!"

Frank Klein, Head of Operations Mercedes-Benz Vans said, "Our new Sprinter plant is a big leap into the future of production at Mercedes-Benz Vans. We are combining all of our global expertise and experience in this plant. In doing so, we make it one of the most advanced facilities in North America. The plant will meet the highest standards in quality, based on our globally standardized production system, from the first vehicle that rolls off the assembly line."

According to company officials, “Mercedes-Benz Vans will implement its most innovative production technologies and concepts in the new plant. Focusing on connectivity like digital communications on the shop floor, it will be most agile and adaptive to respond fast to market changes and customer needs. The workforce will undergo comprehensive technical trainings to ensure a smooth and successful production ramp-up.”