Mercedes-Benz Vans says it aims to “completely transform the South African van industry” by launching fully electric models in this corner of the market…

We recently brought you local pricing for a raft of fully electric Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles, including the EQA, EQB, EQC and EQS. But what about the Stuttgart-based firm’s vans division? Well, Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa has now confirmed it has plans to bring in battery-powered vans in the future, though stopped short of revealing exactly which models are under consideration.

Marinus Venter, Head of Product and Marketing at Mercedes-Benz Vans SA, hinted that though such launches may be a little way down the line, the wheels are at least turning.

“It is our unwavering goal to deliver the most desirable all-electric vehicles to our customers, worldwide. Although we have some challenges in South Africa, the South African market remains an integral part of this plan,” he said.

“Our goal in the coming years is to completely transform the South African van industry as we know it, by providing exceptional electro-mobility solutions in both the private and commercial sectors,” Venter added.

Globally, Mercedes-Benz Vans reported a “significant increase” in demand for its electric vehicles in the second quarter of 2022, particularly in the commercial sector, driven by the eSprinter and eVito. In fact, the automaker claims sales for its electric vans rose by more than 80% to 3 500 units in the reporting period.

So, besides the aforementioned eSprinter (which is scheduled to be replaced by a new-generation model in 2023) and eVito (which is available in some markets in both panel van and Tourer guise), which electric vehicles are currently in the Mercedes-Benz Vans portfolio globally? Well, there’s also the soon-to-launch eCitan, which features a claimed single-charge range of around 285 km.

The Concept EQT previews an upcoming electric version of the T-Class.

Outside of the commercial sector, Mercedes-Benz Vans has the EQV. Revealed back in 2019, this model is positioned as a fully electric premium MPV and is effectively a battery-powered V-Class with a claimed range of 405 km. An electric version of the T-Class (dubbed the EQT and previewed by the Concept EQTpictured above) is also set to be revealed in the relatively near future.

While Mercedes-Benz Vans SA seemingly hints electric models are part of its medium- rather than short-term plans, the firm also claims to be in rude health locally. In fact, it has forecast “record V-Class sales” for 2022, as well as “strong projected sales” for the Vito and Sprinter ranges. Nadia Trimmel, President of Mercedes-Benz Vans SA, has high hopes for the rest of the year.

“The first half of 2022 is behind us and, looking at what we have accomplished, I am exceptionally proud of how the Mercedes-Benz Vans team has persevered. We have demonstrated outstanding resilience in the wake of many challenges and uncertainties. I look forward to a successful remainder of 2022,” said Trimmel.

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