- Mercedes-Benz will unveil a luxury van concept in early 2025
- The concept previews the Van.EA platform
- It’s confirmed for the U.S., though the timing remains uncertain
Mercedes-Benz will unveil a concept next spring previewing a luxury van that will form part of the automaker’s next-generation family of electric vans based on the Van.EA dedicated EV platform.
The luxury van will be based on a new midsize van Mercedes is developing on the Van.EA platform for launch in 2026. The luxury version will likely use the V-Class nameplate, which Mercedes currently attaches to its luxury midsize van sold overseas.
Mercedes has said the van will be offered in the U.S., though the timing is uncertain.
A related commercial version is planned and may adopt the Vito name Mercedes currently uses for its commercial midsize van sold overseas. The current Vito was previously offered in the U.S. as the Metris.
Van.EA – cargo and passenger
Mercedes said the Van.EA platform enables greater differentiation between luxury and commercial models than previously.
Camouflaged prototypes for the midsize van have been spotted testing in the wild. Mercedes has also previously released photos of some prototypes. They hint at shorter front and rear overhangs compared to the current midsize vans, and increased curvature for the windshield, perhaps to help aerodynamic efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz Van.EA prototypes via Mercedes-Benz
The Van.EA platform features a three-module design that allows it to be easily adapted to various vehicle sizes. A front module houses high-voltage power control hardware and an electric motor and is common to all vehicles based on the platform. A center module, available in different lengths and fitting various battery configurations, determines the size of the vehicles based on the platform. A rear module contains the rear axle, either with a motor for all-wheel drive or without for front-wheel drive.
For the luxury van, buyers can expect similar features to what Mercedes offers in its luxury cars and SUVs. This will include the automaker’s driver-assistance technology.
Van.EA electric camper van
The Van.EA platform will also be used for the next generation of Mercedes’ full-size Sprinter van. While a luxury version of the Sprinter isn’t expected, Mercedes has hinted at camper versions.
The Van.EA is one of a series of new platforms being introduced by Mercedes targeting different market segments. The automaker will also deploy a platform called MMA for its next-generation compact range, the MB.EA platform for larger models, and the AMG.EA platform for future AMG performance models. While most are dedicated EV platforms, the MMA platform supports hybrid configurations.