Electric MPVs and Minivans: The Future of Family Transportation
As the automotive industry continues its shift toward electrification, the market for electric multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) and minivans is poised for significant growth. Numerous models are expected to hit the market in the coming years, offering consumers zero-emission alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Here’s a glimpse at some of the most anticipated electric MPVs and minivans on the horizon.
Ford E-Tourneo Courier
Ford is entering the electric MPV space with the E-Tourneo Courier, the MPV version of its E-Transit Courier van. This compact, five-seat EV offers a stylish alternative to the gas-powered Tourneo Courier EcoBoost.
It flaunts a unique front fascia, including a full-width light bar and Ford’s signature chrome diamond grille, with an Active version offering contrasting roof colors and unique trim. The E-Tourneo Courier is powered by a 100 kW (134 hp) electric motor and offers one-pedal driving. While specific battery capacity and range details are still under wraps, Ford says that just 10 minutes of DC fast-charging will add 87 km (54 miles) of range. Production is expected to begin in Craiova, Romania, by late 2024, with a European launch slated for the same year. There are currently no plans for a U.S. release.
Chrysler Pacifica Electric
Chrysler, a pioneer in the plug-in hybrid minivan segment with the Pacifica, is planning to introduce a fully electric version. The Chrysler Pacifica Electric is anticipated to launch in the second half of this decade. At the 2024 LA Auto Show, Chrysler CEO Christine Feuell confirmed that the company is working on the Pacifica Electric, with design influences from the Halcyon concept revealed in February 2024. Feuell has hinted at a target range of 400 miles, aiming to provide customers with anxiety-free long journeys. The Pacifica Electric is expected to undergo a facelift in 2026, potentially launching two years later.
VW ID. Buzz LWB
The VW ID. Buzz, a long-wheelbase version of the electric minivan, is set to arrive at U.S. dealerships in fall 2024. This model includes an additional row of seats accommodating six or seven people, and features dual power-sliding rear doors, a power tailgate, a dimmable panoramic sunroof, and a removable center console. The U.S.-spec ID. Buzz comes with a 91 kWh (gross) battery pack and offers two powertrain options: a 201 hp single-motor and a 282 hp dual-motor setup. Prices start at $59,995.
VW ID. California
Volkswagen plans to launch the all-electric ID. California campervan alongside a gas-powered T7 California. This model is expected to be manufactured in Hannover, Germany. However, a release date hasn’t been announced, as Volkswagen awaits customer response. The ID. California may debut in 2026 or 2027.
Voyah Dreamer Facelift
China’s Dongfeng Group’s high-end EV brand, Voyah, has updated its Dreamer minivan with revised styling and new features. The Dreamer rides on Dongfeng’s ESSA (Electric, Smart & Secure Architecture) platform, and offers up to 5G connectivity. The new Voyah Dreamer boasts a bold exterior, a luxurious interior with three screens, and a 17.3-inch 3K roof-mounted rear entertainment screen. The Dreamer comes in both plug-in hybrid and electric variants, with the electric version featuring front and rear motors generating 320 kW (429 hp). Deliveries are expected to begin in Q4 2024.
Zeekr 009
The Zeekr 009, the second model from Geely Auto’s premium EV brand, features a striking design and is the brand’s inaugural model for the large electric MPV segment. The Zeekr 009 is equipped with CATL’s Qilin batteries, offering a CLTC range of 1,000 km (621 miles) in the Chinese market. Fast-charging takes only 10 minutes. It is available in FWD and AWD variants, with the AWD version capable of accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.9 seconds. Zeekr plans to enter most Western European markets by 2026.
Next-gen Mercedes V-Class Electric
A Mercedes V-Class Electric is slated to replace the Mercedes EQV in 2026. The next-generation model will be a bespoke EV built on the VAN.EA platform. The future electric MPV should offer a range of over 500 km (311 miles) and SAE Level 2 autonomous driving at launch, with Level 3 autonomous driving expected by 2030. Thanks to an 800-volt battery pack, charging will be fast, with sessions expected to take about 20 minutes.
Mercedes-Benz is also planning a large electric camper van based on the VAN.EA-C platform, to be launched after 2026.
Hyundai Staria EV
Hyundai is developing a pure-electric variant of its Staria minivan, which launched in 2021. The Staria EV will feature a fourth-generation lithium-ion NCM battery pack with an 84 kWh energy storage capacity. It will take as little as 20 minutes for a 10-80% charging session and offers a range of 324 km. Hyundai plans to launch the Staria EV in Europe between January and June 2026 and will also sell it in the Asia-Pacific markets.
Other Notable Electric MPVs and Minivans
Several other electric MPVs and minivans are in the pipeline, including:
- BYD Yangwang Premium MPV: Expected to offer a range of 800+ km (500 miles). The BYD Yangwang Premium MPV is expected to arrive in 2024.
- Honda electric minivan: Honda plans a 30 EV launch by 2030, which includes an electric minivan.
- Audi urbansphere: This concept could inspire a future electric Audi MPV for China.
- Buick Electra MPV/GL8 EV: A confirmed all-electric Buick GL8 MPV for China.
- GAC Aion Hyper MPV: Expected to compete with the Zeekr 009 and Denza D9.
- Zeekr Beluga: Scheduled to be released in 2026.
- Zeekr Mix: A mid-size MPV based on the new SEA-M platform.
- LEVC L380: A full-size luxury MPV with up to 8 passenger seating.
- Maextro electric MPV: A luxury MPV from a JAC and Huawei joint venture.
As the trend toward electric vehicles accelerates, the electric MPV and minivan segments are set to offer consumers more choices than ever before, providing spacious, efficient, and environmentally friendly options for families worldwide.
