Mercedes VAN.EA to increase e-van sales to 50%

Mercedes has unveiled its new VAN.EA architecture. The modular underpinnings can house a variety of van models, from medium to large, and must significantly boost electrifying its utility department. The first models on the new platform are expected in 2026.

The VAN.EA platform, which will be produced in sites all over the world from Mercedes, is a dedicated structure for battery-powered light commercial vehicles. It will dramatically reduce technical complexity across the entire range.

Three modules

VAN.EA is built up around three modules. The front and rear structural parts will be identical for all vans, but the variable middle section, where the battery is housed, will make the vans larger or smaller. As this is a skateboard platform, this coincides with the battery capacity and range. Mercedes promises up to 500 kilometers.

The rear module is available in two variants to cope with both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. Mercedes also clearly distinguishes between a commercial range for the architecture and the more luxurious, passenger-oriented models.

Level 3 by 2030

The latter gets a stronger accent on connectivity and semi-autonomous driving (starting at Level 2 and upgrading to Level 3 by 2030). In addition, Mercedes mentions its operating system MB.OS and advanced networking function, aiming to give a passenger vehicle experience.

The commercially-oriented range focuses on functionality, prioritizing payload, towing weight, and cargo capacity. Aligned with the trends in the LCV class, these vehicles will be tailored to the specific needs of courier service, grocery delivery (forecasted as a booming business), or flatbed. Also, according to a recent McKinsey study, the recreational versions, expected to be the most significant category among e-vans, are to be built on the commercial version of VAN.EA.

A modest share today

Mercedes hasn’t released details about the available battery capacities, but it aims to mate the electrification strategy for its vans with a boost for the luxury experience. In that sense, it hopes to increase its returns from the department.

The German carmaker targets half of its van sales to be zero-emission by 2030, driven by the new platform. Today, the brand offers the EQV, e-Vito, and eSprinter, set to conquer a share of 20% by the time VAN.EA spawns its first models. Updates of the current mid-size line-up will be released soon as part of the road map. Today, the share of e-vans at Mercedes is only a modest 3,6%.