Mercedes-Benz NZ introduces electric van range

Mercedes-Benz New Zealand has announced the introduction of four new fully electric vans to the local market, the eSprinter, EQV, and the eVito Panel Van and Tourer.

The introduction of the models marks the first time that Mercedes-Benz has offered four electric alternatives to the New Zealand market, paving the way for the company’s goal to offer electrified models across its entire range.

We covered the announcement of the eVito Panel Van and Tourer last week with the model’s now being joined by the eSprinter and EQV locally.

eSprinter

Based on the Sprinter platform, the electric model can accommodate a load volume of up to 11m in a space that is 3272mm long, 1787mm wide and 2079mm high. The eSprinter can carry a payload of up to 793kg (3500kg GVM).

A single electric motor produces 85kW of power and 295Nm of torque which is delivered to the front wheels. Between charges, the eSprinter can travel up to 132km thanks to its 47kWh battery that uses 41.3kWh per 100km.

Charging via AC takes around eight hours while topping up from 10 to 80 per cent via a DC fast charging station (80kW) takes approximately 30 minutes.

A suite of safety features are on board including blind spot assist, lane keeping assist, active brake assist, crosswind assist, driver and co-driver airbags, automatic headlights and rain sensing wipers.

Occupant comfort is handled by a heated driver seat, Bluetooth connectivity, heated and electrically adjustable front mirrors, adjustable steering wheel and plenty of storage.

A large sliding door is positioned on the left-hand side of the vehicle alongside rear hinged doors and a rear step for loading the van.

EQV

Taking to the luxurious side of things is the EQV people mover, which comes standard in a seven seat arrangement but can be specified with four individual armchairs mounted in the rear compartment of the vehicle.

It makes use of a single electric motor that provides 150kW and 365Nm of torque to the front wheels. The EQV also features a 90kWh battery that can achieve a range of 343km and uses 29kWh per 100km.

A DC charging capacity of 110kW tops the EQV’s battery up from 10 to 80 per cent in around 45 minutes while an 11kW AC charger takes ten hours from empty to full.

Technological fit out includes the MBUX infotainment system which comes with the 10.25-inch central touchscreen, allowing occupants to change audio, phone, navigation and vehicle settings via voice activation. An EV specific feature is pre-entry climate control, cooling or warming the cabin prior to entering it.

A Burmester surround sound audio system comes standard alongside Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a multifunction steering wheel.

Four driving modes are available from economy to comfort or sportiness, while air suspension irons out all the bumps in the road. Five levels of energy recuperation are available as well.

Safety features include active cruise control, a 360 degree camera, driver and co-driver airbags, window airbags, active parking assist, active brake assist, hill-start assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot assist, crosswind assist, and an LED headlight system with high beam assist alongside rain sensing wipers.

The exterior is finished with black and chrome highlights, an AMG spoiler lip, anodised roof rails and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Pricing (NZD)

The Mercedes-Benz eVito Panel Van starts from $101,487 while the passenger-oriented Tourer variant starts from $127,030.

The Mercedes-Benz eSprinter is available from $127,030.

The Mercedes-Benz EQV is priced from $166,350.

All models are available, in limited quantities and can be ordered now from Mercedes-Benz eVan and EQ Retailers.