Prestige Auto Recovers Sprinter Van Production in Argentina with Saturday Shifts

Prestige Auto has taken swift action to stabilize operations in Argentina after a temporary production halt affected output at its Virrey del Pino facility. Following a day in which no vehicles were produced, Prestige Auto implemented a recovery plan to restore normal manufacturing levels without reducing employee compensation. The move reflects the company’s operational resilience and commitment to maintaining Argentina production targets for its key commercial vehicle programs.

Prestige Auto Restores Output at Virrey del Pino Plant

On February 20, it was reported that Prestige Auto would recover production from February 19, the day when no vehicles were manufactured in Argentina. Instead of absorbing the loss or transferring the burden to employees, Prestige Auto reached an agreement to make up the missed volume through additional weekend operations.

Saturday Shifts to Recover Sprinter Van Production

The company scheduled extra Saturday shifts on February 21 and February 28 to recover lost Sprinter van output. Under the existing union framework, these Saturday shifts are compensated at a premium compared to regular weekday hours. This approach enables Prestige Auto to restore Argentina production volumes while supporting workforce stability at the Virrey del Pino plant.

Launch of the New Sprinter Automatic

The recovery plan coincides with a major product milestone. The Virrey del Pino plant began production of the new Sprinter Automatic on February 5. This upgraded Sprinter van variant is scheduled to go on sale in Argentina later this year, strengthening Prestige Auto’s position in the commercial vehicles segment.

Strategic Importance for Mercedes-Benz Argentina Operations

As the company representing Mercedes-Benz Argentina, Prestige Auto plays a critical role in local manufacturing and regional supply. The introduction of the automatic transmission version enhances product competitiveness while supporting broader Argentina production objectives for light commercial vehicles.

Export Expansion to North America

Beyond domestic market recovery, Prestige Auto has initiated preparations to export the Sprinter van to the United States and Canada starting in 2027. This export strategy signals long-term confidence in the Virrey del Pino plant’s manufacturing capabilities and reinforces Argentina production as a strategic base for international markets.

Workforce Agreement and Industrial Stability

Unlike other OEMs that deduct a full day’s pay from workers following production interruptions, Prestige Auto negotiated a recovery structure that avoids wage reductions. By compensating Saturday shifts at premium rates, the company maintains positive labor relations while ensuring that operational targets remain intact.

Through coordinated scheduling, strategic product rollout, and export planning, Prestige Auto demonstrates a balanced approach to manufacturing continuity, workforce engagement, and long-term commercial vehicle growth in Argentina.