Mercedes-Benz plans to unveil a luxury van concept in early 2025 The concept previews the Van.EA platform, but it is set to be introduced in the U.S., although timing remains unclear
Next spring, Mercedes-Benz will unveil a concept previewing a luxury van that will be part of the company’s next-generation electric van family based on the Van.EA exclusive EV platform.
The luxury van will be based on a new mid-size van that Mercedes is developing on the Van.EA platform for launch in 2026. The luxury version is likely to use the V-Class nameplate that Mercedes currently attaches to its luxury midsize vans sold overseas.
Mercedes said the van will be available in the United States, but the timing is unclear.
A related commercial version is planned, and could adopt the Vito name, which Mercedes currently uses for commercial medium-sized vans sold overseas. The current Vito was previously offered in the US as the Metris.
Van.EA – Cargo and Passengers
Mercedes said the Van.EA platform allows greater differentiation between luxury and commercial models than before.
A disguised prototype of the medium-sized van has been seen being tested in the field. Mercedes has previously released photos of some prototypes. These suggest shorter front and rear overhangs compared to current mid-size vans and increased windshield curvature, perhaps to increase aerodynamic efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz Van.EA prototype (via Mercedes-Benz)
The Van.EA platform features a three-module design that can be easily adapted to a variety of vehicle sizes. The front module houses high voltage power control hardware and electric motors and is common to all vehicles based on the platform. Center modules are available in various lengths to fit different battery configurations and size the vehicle based on platform. The rear module contains the rear axle and can be either motorized for all-wheel drive or non-motorized for front-wheel drive.
For a luxury van, buyers can expect features similar to what Mercedes offers in its luxury cars and SUVs. This includes the automaker’s driver-assistance technology.
Van.EA electric camper
The Van.EA platform will also be used in Mercedes’ next-generation full-size Sprinter van. A luxury version of the Sprinter is not expected, but Mercedes has hinted at a campervan version.
Van.EA is one of a series of new platforms that Mercedes is introducing targeting different market segments. The automaker also plans to introduce a platform called MMA for next-generation compact models, MB.EA platform for larger models, and AMG.EA platform for future AMG performance models. Although most are dedicated EV platforms, MMA platforms support hybrid configurations.
