Mercedes-Benz is gearing up for a new era in its van lineup, teasing the arrival of an upcoming electric van. This new model will be the first of its kind, designed to replace the current Sprinter (and its electric counterpart, the eSprinter) and the V-Class in markets outside of the US, marking a significant shift towards electrification. The new vans will be built on the automaker’s innovative Van Electric Architecture, or VAN.EA.
The VAN.EA platform boasts a modular and scalable design, allowing Mercedes-Benz to offer a range of van sizes and configurations. The initial focus will be on the VAN.EA-P, which will be aimed at the private vehicle market and the higher end of the family vehicle segment. The world premiere of the first model is scheduled for 2025, in either spring or the first quarter. Mercedes-Benz has described the show car as representing “a luxurious, elegant, and spacious limousine.”
The VAN.EA platform is designed with three primary blocks: the front block, which will be uniform across the range, houses the front electric motor and axle. The center block will be adaptable to vary the van’s size, while the rear block will be customized depending on the drivetrain and other configuration requirements.
Beyond the VAN.EA-P, Mercedes-Benz is also planning a VAN.EA-C variant, tailored for commercial use. This model will effectively replace the eSprinter Cargo Van that is currently offered in the US. The company is also planning to offer factory-built camper or RV configurations, which is a growing trend in several markets.
While specific design details are still under wraps, one notable feature revealed in the initial teaser image is the iconic Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star emblem set within a ring, positioned atop the hood. Initial specs from last year suggested that the VAN.EA platform could provide around 310 miles of range. Mercedes-Benz will also equip the upcoming vans with their latest technologies, including the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) and up to Level 2 advanced driver-assistance systems.
Following its global debut next year, the first VAN.EA-based model is expected to hit the road in 2026. Mercedes-Benz USA has confirmed that an all-electric minivan based on the VAN.EA architecture will be coming to America. This show car is likely to preview that anticipated model, which is expected to be the next-generation V-Class. The new van will also be introduced in China, targeting the market where the luxurious Lexus LM is popular.
