Mercedes-Benz is accelerating its electric van ambitions. The company is currently testing prototypes of a new modular electric vehicle (EV) platform on public roads, with plans to release a range of new vans by 2026.
This new platform, internally known as Van.EA, adopts a modular approach. Mercedes-Benz indicates that the new architecture features three modules. The front houses the EV powertrain. The middle section determines cargo space and roof height, and uses standardized battery pack sizes. The rear module can have a motor for all-wheel drive or go without for front-wheel-drive applications.
The new vans are designed for both commercial and private use, expanding beyond Mercedes’ current eSprinter offerings. The eSprinter, available in two sizes and with a range of up to 252 miles, is already on the market. However, the new platform is designed to be more flexible.
One particularly notable addition to the lineup will be a mid-size luxury van specifically designed for the U.S. market, expected in 2026. This model will fill the void left by the discontinued Metris. Mercedes-Benz also plans to offer full and mid-size camper-van variants, opening up new possibilities for the #vanlife community.
Mercedes-Benz is targeting an aggressive transition to electric vans. The company aims for 20 percent of its van fleet to be electric by 2026, and fully half by 2030. The company is likely hoping that the luxury mid-size van the platform will produce will be popular in markets like China, where such vehicles are already common for VIP transport and other high-end uses.
While specific performance details for the new Van.EA architecture have not been revealed, the ongoing road tests indicate Mercedes-Benz is making significant strides toward an all-electric future for its van lineup.
