Mercedes-Benz is known for making some of the world's most luxurious and powerful cars, but it also has a strong presence in the commercial vehicle market. The German automaker offers a range of vans, trucks, and buses for various purposes and customers. And now, it’s adding a new member to its electric family: the Mercedes-Benz eCitan.
The Mercedes-Benz eCitan is the electric version of the smallest transporter in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio, the Citan. It’s a compact van that can be used for urban delivery, service, or passenger transport. It’s also the first product of a new cooperation agreement between Mercedes-Benz and the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, which will see the two companies share platforms and technologies for future light commercial vehicles.
The Mercedes-Benz Citan electric van was unveiled in August 2021 and is expected to go on sale in Europe in mid-2022. It will be available in three different lengths (4.5 meters, 4.75 meters, and 4.95 meters) and two body variants (panel van and tourer). It will also offer a range of customization options, such as different roof heights, seating configurations, cargo space layouts, and equipment packages.
What's Under the Hood?
A front-mounted electric motor that produces 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) of torque and 75 kW (102 hp) of power powers the Mercedes-Benz eCitan. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 13.9 seconds and has a top speed of 130 km/h (81 mph). The motor is fed by a 44-kWh lithium-ion battery pack under the floor, giving the van a low center of gravity and not compromising the interior space.
The battery pack can provide a range of up to 285 km (177 miles) on the WLTP cycle, which is enough for most urban applications. It can also be fast-charged from 10% to 80% in about 40 minutes using a DC charger with up to 75 kW of power. Alternatively, it can be fully charged in about six hours using an AC wallbox with up to 11 kW of power.
The Mercedes-Benz Citan electric minivan also comes with an intelligent energy management system that optimizes the efficiency and performance of the electric drivetrain. It can adjust the power output based on the driving mode, road conditions, speed, and battery level. It can also recuperate energy during braking or coasting, which can extend the range by up to 10%.
What's Inside?
The Mercedes-Benz eCitan has a spacious and comfortable interior that can accommodate up to five people in the tourer variant or up to 2.9 cubic meters (102 cubic feet) of cargo in the panel van variant. The cargo area can be accessed through two sliding doors on both sides or through a rear door that can be opened up to 180 degrees. The cargo area can also be fitted with various partitions, shelves, hooks, rails, and nets to suit different needs.
The cabin of the Mercedes-Benz Citan electric van features a modern and ergonomic design that combines functionality and aesthetics. It has a digital instrument cluster displays key information such as speed, battery level, range, and driving mode. It also has a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB, and navigation. Both voice commands and steering wheel buttons are available for controlling the infotainment system.
The Mercedes-Benz eCitan also offers high safety and convenience features that make driving easier and more enjoyable. It has a keyless start system allows the driver to start the van without inserting a key. It has an automatic climate control system that maintains a comfortable temperature inside the cabin. It has an adaptive cruise control system that maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. It has a lane-keeping assist system that warns the driver if they drift out of their lane. It also has a rearview camera and parking sensors that help maneuver tight spaces.
How much does it cost?
The Mercedes-Benz eCitan is expected to have a starting price of around €35,000 ($39,000) in Germany before any incentives or subsidies. This makes it competitive with other electric vans in its segment, such as the Ford E-Tourneo Courier, the Ford E-Transit Courier, or the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo.
The Mercedes-Benz Citan electric minivan is not only an affordable and practical electric van but also a stylish and sophisticated one. It combines the quality and reliability of Mercedes-Benz with the efficiency and sustainability of electric mobility. It’s a van that can meet the diverse needs of urban customers while also reducing their environmental impact.
If you’re looking for an electric van that can do it all, you might want to check out the Mercedes-Benz eCitan when it hits the market next year.
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