Mercedes-Benz Vans plans to offer all its commercial van model lines with electric drive.

This will start with the mid-size eVito, which is now available to order, with deliveries commencing in the second half of 2018. Further model ranges will follow, starting in 2019.

“We are convinced by the necessity of electric drive in our vans, especially in city centre applications,” said Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. “The eVito is the starting point and will be followed by the new generation of our Sprinter as well as the Citan.” Mercedes-Benz Vans plans to electrify all its commercial model ranges over the next few years, starting with the eVito.

With an installed battery capacity of 41.4 kWh, the range of the new eVito will be around 150 km. Even in unfavourable conditions such as low outside temperatures and with a full load, it will have a range of 100 km. The battery can be fully charged in around six hours.

When it comes to top speed, the customer can choose between two options: a maximum speed of 80 km/h for city use; or up to 120 km/h for more rural work.

Initially, it will be possible to pre-order the eVito with one of two wheelbases: total vehicle length of 5,140 mm or 5,370 mm. It can accommodate a maximum payload of 1,073 kg and a maximum load volume of 6.6 m3. Installation of the battery beneath the vehicle contributes to the unrestricted usability of the entire load space. The maximum gross vehicle weight stands at 3,200 kg.

Photo: The mid-size eVito is now available to order and further model ranges will follow, starting in 2019.