Mercedes’ potential for minivan success in the US market.
According to an update on March 12, CarBuzz reached out to MBUSA and received the following statement: “Beginning in 2026, Mercedes-Benz will manufacture newly developed midsize and large vans on VAN.EA. This is in line with our ‘electric-only’ strategy, as VAN.EA has been specifically designed for battery electric vehicles (BEVs). For the first time ever, Mercedes-Benz will introduce all-electric midsize luxury vans to both the US and China,” a representative for the company stated.
The renowned car company Mercedes-Benz has announced that an electric minivan will soon be launched in the United States. This new addition, which is set to debut in 2026, will be the successor to the existing EQV model and will be exclusively offered to American consumers for the first time.
According to representatives of the company, WardsAuto was informed that the latest version of the minivan will make its comeback in the US as the V-Class, abandoning the previous name- EQV- used in European countries. The upcoming VAN.EA platform will serve as the foundation for this new model, which is adaptable and flexible, granting Mercedes the ability to construct various types of vans on the same framework.
The upcoming 2026 release of both commercial and luxury vans, similar to the latest V-Class model, will provide a diverse selection of features and prices for consumers. According to sources, the third iteration of the V-Class will introduce single and dual motor options, along with two battery capacity choices and a selection between rear or all-wheel drive. Additionally, buyers will have the freedom to select from varying seating arrangements.
The team at CarBuzz has made contact with Mercedes-Benz in order to verify and obtain further details. We will provide an update on the article once we receive a response.
The Mercedes-Benz V-Class, which made its debut in 2013, has recently undergone a second facelift to maintain its appeal. It continues to experience high demand in both Europe and Asia, where luxury minivans are highly sought after. Though the changes to its external appearance were minimal, the interior received significant updates in terms of design, as well as the incorporation of advanced features such as MBUX technology.
One of the most similar vehicles to the V-Class in America was the Metris Passenger Van. However, it was no longer produced because of its sluggish sales and limited appeal. Targeted towards businesses, it remains to be seen if the company can capture the attention of American buyers with their all-new electric van – expected to offer a more luxurious experience compared to the Metris.
Surprisingly, the present V-Class will continue to utilize both diesel and gasoline engines until the 2020s, with additional improvements in the interim period. Vehicles intended for the US market will be manufactured at the Vitoria, Spain plant owned by the automaker.
The VAN.EA architecture of Mercedes is composed of distinct units known as “blocks.” These blocks total to three, with the initial block being uniform across all Mercedes vans, regardless of their dimensions or price. This section comprises the front axle and the electric propulsion system. The second block dictates the size and capacity of the cabin or storage compartment. Finally, the third block houses an additional electric motor.
The upcoming V-Class is set to be built on the VAN.EA-P framework, with “P” representing its focus on personal use. These vehicles will target private consumers, VIPs, and upscale hotels. Mercedes has announced a goal of achieving a 310-mile electric range and incorporating Level 2 autonomous driving technology. Excitingly, there are even plans to potentially utilize Level 3 self-driving capabilities in select regions of the US, specifically in S-Class and EQS variants.
At present, individuals who purchase Mercedes vehicles and desire a roomy and lavish option for transporting their family must make do with the GLS-Class. Additionally, it is important to mention that the renowned car manufacturer from Germany has recently introduced an electric eSprinter van for commercial use.
