Mercedes-Benz has recently revealed significant advancements in the development of its next-generation electric vans. These innovations, including an 800-volt electric architecture and a 22 kW AC onboard charger, promise to greatly improve the charging speed and efficiency of the brand’s future vans. The confirmation of these details took place on Thursday, coinciding with Mercedes’ cold climate testing in Arjeplog, Sweden, a location known for its use in extreme tests, especially in the Arctic Circle. These tests are crucial to ensure that the brand’s vehicles can withstand extreme weather conditions, an essential aspect of ensuring their reliability and durability.
The Innovative Van.EA Platform for the New Generation of Electric Vans
Unlike the current Mercedes-Benz electric vans, such as the Sprinter, which are derived from internal combustion engine models, the next generation of vans will adopt a fully electric approach. This transformation is based on a new and advanced architecture called Van.EA (Electric Architecture). This paradigm shift represents a step forward in the brand’s commitment to electrification and aims to offer a more efficient driving experience with lower environmental impact. Additionally, the internal combustion engine versions will be based on a derivative of this same platform, called Van.CA, highlighting the flexibility and adaptability of the new architecture.
New Capabilities and Features for Electric Vans
One of the most prominent advances in the new Van.EA platform-based models is the integration of more powerful charging capabilities. Thanks to an 800-volt electrical system and an onboard charger with 22 kW AC power, these vans will charge faster than their predecessors, representing a significant improvement for commercial fleets that rely on efficient charging times to maximize their operations.
Another innovative feature of these new models is the possibility of having four-wheel steering and all-wheel drive. These systems, which have been common in Mercedes-Benz electric passenger vehicles, have never been offered in the brand’s electric vans. The inclusion of these components will not only improve the vans’ maneuverability and stability on various road conditions but will also optimize their performance in difficult terrain. All-wheel-drive models are expected to be equipped with dual motors, while front-wheel-drive models will come with a single motor, as opposed to the current rear-wheel-drive configuration.
The Variety of Models and the Vision V Concept
Mercedes-Benz plans to offer a wide range of vehicles derived from the new Van.EA platform, including both more traditional work versions and a more luxurious model. This luxury model will be previewed by the Vision V concept, which will give a glimpse of what the high-end electric van will look like in the future. Production of these electric models is scheduled to begin next year, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s electrification strategy.
The Future of Electrification at Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz’s electrification efforts are not limited to vans. The brand also plans to expand its electric vehicle offering to other segments, including the C-Class and E-Class sedans, as well as the GLC-Class crossover. In fact, Mercedes-Benz has recently confirmed that it will launch fully electric versions of these vehicles, along with prototypes of hybrid and 48-volt electric models. Additionally, the brand continues to test its electric vehicles under extreme conditions, as evidenced by the testing of the electric GLC prototype in Arjeplog.
This comprehensive approach to electrification by Mercedes-Benz underscores its commitment to sustainability and innovation, while still providing consumers with high-performance vehicles that meet a wide range of needs.
