Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a battery-powered version of its new Vito panel van called the E-CELL that is due to go on sale in 2011.
Underneath the recently updated exterior are 16 Lithium-ion battery modules, mounted underneath the load area, which powers the single synchronous 70kW electric motor. This combination gives the van a maximum range of 130km (80 miles) on a single six-hour charge from a 400 volt input.
Early adopters will be pleased with the fact that there are no compromises in terms of load space and, even with the weighty battery pack, onboard payload stands at a respectable 900kg - approximately 50kg less than on the standard diesel Vito.
Dr Sascha Paasche, head of development Mercedes-Benz vans, says Mercedes' ultimate goal is "emmission-free driving". He adds: "The Vito E-CELL is the first-ever series production electric van and is assembled on the same line as the regular Vitos at Mercedes' Vitoria plant in Spain.
"Currently we have 100 E-CELL's on trial with various companies in Berlin and Stuttgart this year, but we plan to manufacture 2,000 vehicles in 2011 and a further 1,000 units the year after that.
"Electric mobility is the future; especially in densely populated areas where exhaust and noise pollution is at its highest."
Read our full first drive of the Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL, plus our impressions of the newly updated interior and exterior, in the 12 August issue of Commercial Motor.
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