- Mercedes-Benz will unveil the Vision V van concept in early 2025
- The concept is based on the new Van.EA platform
- The production model is confirmed for the U.S. in luxury guise, though the timing remains uncertain
Mercedes-Benz will unveil a concept in the spring previewing a midsize van that will form part of the automaker’s next-generation family of electric vans based on a new Van.EA dedicated EV platform.
Called the Vision V, the concept is thought to specifically preview a luxury variant of the new electric midsize van Mercedes is looking to launch in 2026. The luxury variant will likely use the V-Class nameplate, which Mercedes currently attaches to its luxury midsize van sold overseas.
Teaser for Mercedes-Benz Vision V van concept
Mercedes has said the van will be offered in the U.S., though the timing for this market is uncertain.
A related commercial version is likely planned and may adopt the Vito name Mercedes currently uses for its commercial midsize van sold overseas. The current Vito was previously offered in the U.S. as the Metris.
Van.EA – cargo and passenger
Mercedes said the Van.EA platform enables greater differentiation between luxury and commercial models than previously. And while Mercedes originally planned for the platform to underpin all of its next-generation vans, the automaker during its financial results presentation in February said it has changed that plan and will now continue to offer vans with internal-combustion engines, though it isn’t clear whether this will be with a modified Van.EA platform or a separate platform.
Camouflaged prototypes for the electric midsize van have been spotted testing in the wild. Mercedes has also previously released photos of some prototypes. They hint at shorter front and rear overhangs compared to the current midsize vans, and increased curvature for the windshield, perhaps to help aerodynamic efficiency.
The Van.EA platform features a three-module design that allows it to be easily adapted to various vehicle sizes. A front module houses high-voltage power control hardware and an electric motor and is common to all vehicles based on the platform. A center module, available in different lengths and fitting various battery configurations, determines the size of the vehicles based on the platform. A rear module contains the rear axle, either with a motor for all-wheel drive or without for front-wheel drive.
For the luxury van, buyers can expect similar features to what Mercedes offers in its luxury cars and SUVs. This will include the automaker’s driver-assistance technology.
Van.EA electric camper van
The Van.EA platform will also be used for the next generation of Mercedes’ full-size Sprinter van. While a luxury version of the Sprinter isn’t expected, Mercedes has hinted at camper versions.
The Van.EA is one of a series of new platforms being introduced by Mercedes targeting different market segments. The automaker will also deploy a platform called MMA for next-generation compact EVs and hybrids, the MB.EA platform for larger EVs, and the AMG.EA platform for future AMG performance models. The AMG.EA platform, like the MMA, is also expected to support internal-combustion engines, like a new electrified V-8 being developed by AMG.
