A production version of Mercedes’ EQT van concept looks to be in the works, and could land as early as next year.
Unveiled last May as a “a tangible impression” of a premium model in the small panel van segment, the EQT was presented in close-to production form and as a compact counterpart to Mercedes’ V-Class van series, thus offering prospective customers electrified – and premium – options across all of the brand’s van categories.
Mercedes-Benz EQT concept
Now, an updated version of the EQT – code-named, rather unoriginally, as ‘EQT2’ – will join Mercedes-Benz Vans’ electric line-up, potentially as early as next year, alongside the already launched eSprinter and EQV, and the upcoming eCitan. It’s also one of the latest steps towards realizing Mercedes’ carbon-neutral “Ambition 2039” goal.
The update was provided among Mercedes’ press materials for its newly-launched T-Class panel van, with the production-ready EQT2 set to combine “the multifunctionality and high-end appeal of the T Class” with an electric drivetrain. Mercedes has already stated that each of its brand-new architectures from 2025 onwards will be “exclusively electric.”
Mercedes-Benz EQT concept
Mercedes has also pretty confirmed that much of the EQT’s “distinctive exterior appearance” will be carried over into the EQT2, the concept offering what Mercedes calls a “foretaste” of the production version to come.
Measuring 4,945 mm (just over 16 ft) in length, 1,863 mm wide and standing 1,826 mm tall (both around the 6 ft mark), the EQT concept is slightly larger than a Volkswagen Caddy, but boasts a more “premium” exterior design. Notable elements include the slim headlights and broad radiator grille indicative of Merc’s all-electric ‘EQ’ range. The rear, meanwhile, is dominated by a full-width lightbar, while large sliding doors make exit and egress easier for passengers on the third row bench seat (there’s space for up to seven occupants). Sadly, the funky 21-inch concave alloys probably won’t make it to production, nor is it likely that the electric longboard in the trunk will, either, although the double-floorspace the latter showcases will probably stay.
Mercedes-Benz EQT concept
Trimmed in white Napa leather, highlighted elements of the EQT interior include a dash-mounted touchscreen – through which an artificial intelligence program memorizes the driver’s routines during the commutes and automates them, e.g. regular phone calls to and from work – and a panoramic sunroof with a “starscape lasered into it.”
Mercedes-Benz EQT concept
Details on propulsion have yet to be revealed, but speculation suggests that the EQT2 could use the same 44 kWh and single electric motor combination as Mercedes’ electric eCitan panel van, potentially enough for more than 270 km electric range and up to 100 hp and 245 Nm (around 180 lb ft) of torque.
