Mercedes-Benz is set to introduce its luxury vans in America, targeting the untapped market for privately positioned midsize luxury vans. These vans are designed to serve as luxury transportation for humans, unlike converted Sprinter vans that still retain the underpinnings of a utilitarian machine designed to move cargo. The difference between the two is stark, and Mercedes-Benz believes there is growth opportunity with the V-Class.
To underpin these efforts, Mercedes-Benz is preparing to roll out its all-electric van architecture, the VAN.EA platform. This all-electric platform will find homes under private vans and cargo carriers alike, and Mercedes-Benz has already been dabbling in this arena with the eSprinter. The eSprinter has a 113-kWh battery installed in a pre-production example and was driven from Vegas to Long Beach without stopping to recharge on the 275-mile journey.
While some may mutter about range and charging opportunities for long-distance deliveries, many cargo vans and passenger vans find themselves in environs suited for all-electric driving in large centers. Being stuck in LA traffic means plenty of regeneration opportunities instead of idling away fuel stores, while the van’s downtime will likely coincide with off-peak grid hours when electricity is cheaper for charging.
Mercedes-Benz is confident that there is a market for luxury vans in America, and the introduction of the VAN.EA platform will provide an all-electric option for customers who require luxury transportation. Livery services and the like are expected to fill their fleets with these vans, and we should expect to see them in the perpetually congested pickup/dropoff lanes at LAX in short order.
In conclusion, Mercedes-Benz is planning to sell luxury vans in America, targeting the untapped market for privately positioned midsize luxury vans. The VAN.EA platform will underpin these efforts, providing an all-electric option for customers who require luxury transportation. While some may mutter about range and charging opportunities for long-distance deliveries, many cargo vans and passenger vans find themselves in environs suited for all-electric driving in large centers. Mercedes-Benz is confident that there is a market for luxury vans in America, and we should expect to see them in the perpetually congested pickup/dropoff lanes at LAX in short order.
