GREENSBORO, N.C. Beginning this quarter, DaimlerChrysler Buses North America is taking the wraps off its newly redesigned Dodge Sprinter shuttle bus that now has room for 15 passengers.

'The standard just got better,' said Patrick Scully, chief commercial officer of DaimlerChrysler Commercial Buses North America.

'The all-new, super-sized Sprinter shuttle bus simply increases the versatility of the vehicle, while continuing to offer best-in-class fuel economy and unmatched ride and maneuverability.'

The Sprinter offers a wide variety of usage capabilities, from shuttle service to small-group charters, Scully added.

The redesign of the formerly boxy Sprinter succeeded in giving it a much more streamlined and contemporary look which DaimlerChrysler says will broaden its appeal to consumers.

The new styling begins with a continuous sidewall line that rises and widens from front to rear, giving the vehicle a look of forward movement. The side design is dominated by body accents that extend from the front and rear bumpers.

The rain channel has been integrated into the roof and the wide side rub panels are designed to reinforce the sense of visual unity.

From the rear, the 2007 Dodge Sprinter makes a clear break from conventional van design. The rear lights blend with the lines of the vehicle. Lower parts of the sidewalls, bumpers and rear doors have a pronounced taper without sacrificing load space.

With an increased length of 30 inches now 289 inches long; an increased width of 1.5 inches now 78.5 inches; and an increased height of 3 inches now 78.5, the Sprinter shuttle has grown to add not only passengers but also increased cabin comfort.

The 07 Sprinter is powered by an all-new, high-performance 3.0-liter turbo diesel V-6 engine, with 154 horsepower. The engine has an aluminum block and two overhead camshafts per cylinder. The engine weighs a modest 530 pounds.

The low-emissions engine comes with a standard particulate filter. This is the first time a diesel particulate filter has been fitted as standard in the Sprinters weight class.

The Sprinter is equipped with a standard five-speed automatic transmission.

The driver area also has been redesigned. It features a height and tilt-adjustable steering column.

The center console contains the controls for the entertainment center, air conditioning and heating systems, hazard warning light switch, a note holder, a 12-volt socket and two cup holders.

New larger integrated wide-angle mirrors provide the driver greater rear visibility.

The Sprinter, which has been available in North America since 2004, is marketed as a true small bus not a cargo van with seats or a van chassis with a bus body. It will now seat up to 15 passengers in a variety of configurations.

For more information, go to www.dcbusna.com.