Mercedes EQV Debuts As World's First All-Electric Premium Van

During the 2019 Geneva Motor Show in March this year, Mercedes-Benz revealed the EQV Concept as a near-production prototype, which is now morphing into a mass-production vehicle wearing the simple EQV moniker. The German company describes the newest addition to the EQ lineup as the "first fully-electric premium MPV" and promises it will deliver emissions-free mobility combined with "impressive driving abilities." The passenger van will celebrate its world public premiere during this year's Frankfurt Motor Show from 12 to 22 September.

Visually, the EQV is practically identical to the concept from earlier this year. That's good news as the study featured a sleek and balanced design, which stays true to Mercedes' bus roots but also incorporates modern touches like the sweptback headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights. It's the same story inside the cabin where the EQV is sharing its interior design with the Geneva concept. Interestingly, there's no engine start-stop button but a traditional key instead, which is rather surprising on an all-electric vehicle. The cabin accommodates up to seven or eight passengers depending on the seat configuration.

Power is provided by an electric drive system mounted on the front axle with a charging port in the front bumper. The system output is 201 horsepower (150 kilowatts) and Mercedes promises a range between two charges of 249 miles (400 kilometers). Electric power for the electric motor comes from a 90-kWh lithium-ion battery pack situated under the floor of the vehicle. A smart water-cooled onboard charger with a capacity of 11 kW allows for AC charging at home or at public charging stations.

Just like the EQV Concept, the production all-electric van adopts the automaker's MBUX infotainment platform with a single tablet-style screen instead of the 12.3-inch screens seen on other new Mercedes products. The system supports voice control and also allows customers to pre-condition the interior cabin temperature from a special mobile application.

No word on pricing and availability yet.