The latest Mercedes-Benz EQ concept will take the form of an all-electric MPV dubbed the ‘Concept EQV’.
The German car manufacturer announced the imminent arrival of the Concept EQV at the global premiere of the facelifted V-Class. The vehicle is expected to be pitched as a rival to Volkswagen’s ID Buzz, a similarly-sized electric van that’s already been confirmed for production.
Mercedes-Benz continues to keep details about the Concept EQV under wraps but reports suggest it will be based around the electric version of the Mercedes-Benz Vito van. Due to the vehicle’s size, a battery pack at least 100 kWh in capacity is a probability.
Daimler is serious about electrification.
Speaking to Auto Express about the vehicle, chief engineer for Mercedes-Benz midsize vans Andreas Hasselwander said that the automaker had considered creating a plug-in hybrid V-Class but has instead to decided that an all-electric model is the way to go.
“It is theoretically and technically possible to do the same electrification (as the C-Class PHEV model). However, we have to cope with customer demands, and this is a global product, so we also need to factor in legislation, especially in China. The rules there on minimum pure-electric mileage are the big problem, because 100 km is a major challenge.
“With just one battery, I would say it is feasible to have up to 50 km of pure electric running in the V-Class but with China increasing the range required for incentives, we’d need to look at a second battery. That would increase complexity and cost, so we have decided to go another way,” Hasselwander revealed.
As with other Mercedes-Benz EQ models, the Concept EQV will be differentiated from its ICE counterparts with unique styling details, including an overhauled front fascia with sleek headlights that flow into a bespoke grille.
Other electric EQ models being developed by Mercedes-Benz are the EQC SUV, EQA hatchback, EQB baby SUV, and EQS luxury sedan.
Note: Mercedes-Benz Vito pictured above, facelifted V-Class below
