Mercedes promises electric camper van as it aims big with new EV van platform

Mercedes-Benz is promising a to build an electric camper van as part of a commitment to build all new midsize and large vans on a newly launched Van Electric Architecture.

The modular and scalable VAN.EA architecture will allow a range of vans to be developed on a single platform, regardless of its use as a commercial or private luxury van – including the electric camper and vans serving as couriers, ambulances, grocery vans, or flatbeds.

“Mercedes‑Benz Vans will … expand the portfolio of ex-factory camper vans with a new model line of fully electric midsize and large camper vans, based on VAN.EA,” the company says.

“The division aims to define the new industry standard with its international camper business partners around the world.”

Mercedes-Benz says the VAN.EA platform will reduce complexity and help deliver optimal battery capacity and high electric driving range, with the aim being to deliver a range of “well over” 500kms. It is aiming to make 50 per cent of its van sales fully electric by 2030, and to gain significant share of the luxury van markets in China and the US.

“This enables us to consolidate our midsize and large vans down to only one architecture and significantly reduce the complexity of our product portfolio,” said Mathias Geisen, the head of Mercedes-Benz Vans.

“Maximum added value for customers with sustainable profitability at the same time: VAN.EA clearly underscores our aspiration to be ‘Lead in Electric’.”

The VAN.EA-P variant, which stands for privately positioned midsize vans, will be available in models designed for a range of customers including lifestyle-oriented customers, VIP shuttles, or for families.

The premium commercial van variant, VAN.EA-C, will use its modular and scalable design to deliver different configurations depending on the customer needs.