Mercedes says that with VAN.EA’s flexibility, there will be scope to have different lengths and powertrain layouts. A front-mounted electric motor will feature on all VAN.EA products with the option of having it by itself for a single-motor, front-wheel drive vehicle or joined by a rear motor for dual-motor, all-wheel drive.
According to Mercedes, “VAN.EA focuses on efficiency and performance in every aspect of the vehicle – including aerodynamics, drivetrain, tires and chassis. The goal is to achieve a high range with an optimal battery capacity, which is directly related to vehicle weight and costs.”
The EQV currently offers 226 miles with the 90kWh battery (our only option in the UK) and 172 miles for the 60kWh battery. Mercedes claims the new electric V-Class will have a range “well over 500 kilometres” (310 miles).
The VAN.EA platform will be offered in ‘VAN.EA-P’ form, with the ‘P’ signifying the targeting of the private sector. This version is likely to be the one used in the V-Class MPV and will focus on “lifestyle-oriented customers with the highest standards, as a VIP shuttle, as a locally CO2-emissions free mobile office or for leisure-active families”.
The flip side of this will be VAN.EA-C – which stands for ‘commercial’. These versions will target customers “who value functionality, reach, payload and cargo space” according to Mercedes and it’s likely to feature under the replacement for the Mercedes Vito panel van.
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