Mercedes-Benz’s Mysterious Minivan Spotted
A Completely New Architecture
Responsible for the Future of Mercedes-Benz’s Vans
Mercedes-Benz is set to bring an all-new electric minivan model to the US market. A prototype of the minivan will be based on Mercedes-Benz’s new modular electric architecture called the VAN.EA platform has been spotted driving on public roads. Mercedes-Benz has previously been seen testing the VAN.EA platform using older V-Class minivans.
Previously, Mercedes-Benz tested the VAN.EA platform uses older V-Class models, but this is the first time we’ve seen the automaker testing a prototype for its next-gen minivan. The new platform will also underpin the next generation of the eSprinter electric minivan, a popular option in the commercial vehicle market.
Sleek EQ Design with a Smaller Profile
While the prototype is still heavily camouflaged, its overall design hints at the familiar sleekness of Mercedes-Benz’s EQ electric vehicle lineup. The front end has evolved from the V-Class-based test vehicles we’ve seen, but the rear tail light design remains similar. One subtle change is the placement of the red LED, which now sits above the tail light rather than below.
The exact dimensions of the new minivan are still unknown, but it is expected to be smaller than the current eSprinter, which measures 7,112 mm (280.0 inches) in length, 2,019 mm (79.5 inches) in width, and 2,717 mm (107.0 inches) in height. According to inside sources, the minivan will have a range of up to 498 kilometers (309 miles), surpassing the eSprinter’s current range of 405 kilometers (252 miles).
VAN.EA: The Backbone of Mercedes-Benz’s Electric Van Future
Since this VAN.EA platform is a modular and scalable architecture, Mercedes-Benz plans to use it for everything from luxury midsize vans to large commercial delivery vans. Minivans using the new platform are expected to account for up to 20% of the electric van market by 2026 and up to 50% or more by 2030. Mercedes-Benz’s US subsidiary is also said to be planning to produce purely electric midsize and large camper vans based on VAN.EA.
Currently, the V-Class (known as the Metris in the U.S.) is already available stateside. Still, sales have struggled due to its limited functionality—particularly the inability to fold rear seats and a lack of features compared to competitors in the luxury van segment. With this new prototype, Mercedes-Benz aims to make a stronger push into the midsize luxury van market.
Modular Flexibility with Front-, Rear-, and All-Wheel Drive Options
The VAN.EA platform is designed for ultimate flexibility. The platform’s front, center, and rear modules can be adjusted independently. All models will come with a standard front-wheel-drive electric motor, while the rear module can either include an additional motor for all-wheel-drive capability or remain motor-free. The center module will allow for various battery sizes and capacities, offering flexibility based on the vehicle’s intended use.
The prototype is undergoing long-distance road testing and will soon head to Sweden for cold-weather testing to ensure winter performance. While Mercedes-Benz has yet to reveal the official launch date for the first VAN.EA-based electric van, the target is to bring these vehicles to market by 2026.
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