Helped by the rapid ride in home deliveries from firms such as Amazon, the electric van market has become hugely competitive, with a string of new machines from established car firms and bold EV start-ups.
Mercedes-Benz has offered an electric version of its popular Vito panel van since 2018 – and has now given the model a comprehensive upgrade to take on the new opposition. The revisions bring the eVito panel van in line with the eVito Tourer MPV.
The main upgrade for the eVito is a new 66kWh battery, which replaces the 41kWh version previously used. That has resulted in a substantial increase in the machine’s official range from 93 to 162 miles.
The new battery also allows for rapid DC charging at speeds of up to 80kW, which Mercedes claims allows for a charge from 10 to 85% – enough to add around 105 miles of range – in 35 minutes. A full charge takes around six-and-a-half hours on an 11kW wallbox, or 20 hours using a domestic 3.7kW plug.
The eVito van retains a single 85kW (116bhp) and 265lb ft electric motor that drives the front wheel. The 3.2-tonne van also has a maximum payload of 807kg, with a maximum load volume of 6.6 metres cubed. It is offered in two lengths: 5140mm and 5370mm.
All eVito vans feature a seven-inch touchscreen with smartphone compatibility and a three-year subscription to the Mercedes me app and digital services (including remote charging, and public charge point information for route planning).
Standard Progressive-spec models feature air conditioning, a reversing camera and and heated driver’s seat. There is also a new Premium trim, which adds metallic paint and bumpers, 17in allow wheels, a chrome grille and a number of driver assistance features.
There are also four option packages for various features and kit.
The eVito panel van is now available to order in the UK, priced from £43,600 excluding the £5000 Office for Zero Emission Vehicle grant contribution. UK deliveries are due to begin in March.
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