Mercedes-Benz may have tweaked its electric vehicle (EV) goals, but it’s going full steam ahead with a new electric commercial vehicle architecture.
Its Vans division is launching a new electric van architecture called VAN.EA, which will be introduced in 2026.
This modular, scalable architecture will eventually underpin all newly developed medium and large vans from the three-pointed star.
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VAN.EA models will be offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, as well as an 800-volt electrical system and a 22kW AC charger.
They’ll also use the latest version of the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS).
It’s currently testing prototypes of VAN.EA models on public roads, with cold-weather testing taking place later this year.
Mercedes-Benz says the new architecture “allows for a clear differentiation between privately positioned vans in the luxury segment and commercial vans in the premium segment”, suggesting the replacement for today’s EQV will look more different to the next Vito.
As before, Mercedes-Benz will offer people mover versions ranging from family-focused models like today’s eVito Tourer to “exclusive VIP shuttles”.
Mercedes-Benz has previously confirmed it will “further extend the top-end of its product portfolio moving forward”, suggesting a future people mover fancier than even today’s EQV.
Current eVito 
VAN.EA prototype
The company already offers a wide range of electric cargo vans (medium eVito and large eSprinter) and electric people movers (eVito Tourer, EQV).
The number of electric vans available, even in Australia, has quickly proliferated thanks to a growing number of European and Chinese offerings.
The electric people mover segment has proved less competitive in Australia so far, but the EQV and LDV MIFA 9 will soon be joined by the Volkswagen ID. Buzz.
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