Mercedes-Benz Vans is at the forefront of the shift towards sustainable urban transport with the launch of the fully electric small van, the eCitan. Designed for inner-city delivery and service operations, the eCitan embodies the commitment to locally CO₂-emission-free transport, extending the company's electric vehicle (EV) offerings to the compact van class. This new addition follows the successful electrification of their medium and large van segments, providing commercial customers with a versatile, eco-friendly alternative for urban mobility.
Versatility and Efficiency: The eCitan Panel Van
The eCitan is available as a Panel Van in two lengths: the compact 4498 mm version and the longer 4922 mm model. Both versions are built to meet the demands of urban logistics, with the compact model offering a load capacity of 2.9 cubic meters and a payload of up to 544 kilograms, while the long version offers 3.7 cubic meters and up to 722 kilograms. This makes the eCitan an ideal solution for courier, shuttle, and delivery services operating in congested city environments.
One of the standout features of the eCitan is its impressive range of 280 to 284 kilometers, as measured by the WLTP. This range is more than sufficient for the daily needs of most urban delivery services. The van's 45 kWh battery can be rapidly charged from 10 to 80 percent in just 38 minutes using an 80 kW DC charger, ensuring minimal downtime during operations.
Thoughtful Design for Practical Use
The Mercedes-Benz eCitan Panel Van is designed with practicality in mind. It features a wide-opening sliding door and a low loading sill height of just 57 centimeters, facilitating easy access and efficient loading, even in tight urban spaces. An additional sliding door is available upon request for even greater convenience. The rear doors can be locked at a 90-degree angle and swung open up to 180 degrees, or an optional tailgate can be fitted. The interior can be customized with a variety of partitions, including a pivoting partition that allows for the transport of particularly long items by folding the front passenger seat flat, extending the load compartment length to 3.05 meters for the compact version and 3.41 meters for the long version.
eCitan Tourer: Comfortable and Eco-Friendly Passenger Transport
The eCitan Tourer variant is tailored for commercial passenger transport, offering a tailgate with a rear window and a second sliding side door as standard. The rear bench seat is split-folding, enhancing the vehicle's flexibility. Practical features such as fold-out tables from the front seat backrests and integrated cup holders make the Tourer convenient for passengers. The Tourer also includes a load compartment cover and a luggage net for secure transport of goods and personal items.
Advanced Equipment and Intuitive Technology
Both the eCitan Panel Van and Tourer come in BASE and PRO equipment lines. The PRO line offers additional visual and functional upgrades, including painted door handles and sliding door rails, LED lighting for the interior and load compartment, and a comprehensive audio system. The optional MBUX multimedia system includes a seven-inch touchscreen, touch control buttons on the steering wheel, smartphone integration with Apple Car Play and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and digital radio. For navigation, the MBUX system features a fast hard-disc navigation system and the "Hey Mercedes" Voice Assistant for hands-free control.
Robust Performance and Efficient Charging
The eCitan is powered by a 90 kW (122 hp) electric motor with a peak torque of 245 Nm, providing strong acceleration from a standstill. The lithium-ion battery is securely positioned in the underbody ahead of the rear axle, ensuring crash protection and optimal weight distribution. The eCitan supports charging with alternating current (AC) at 11 kW or 22 kW via an onboard charger, as well as fast charging with direct current (DC) up to 80 kW. This flexibility allows for convenient charging at various locations, whether at home, at work, or at public charging stations.
Innovative Climate Control and Safety Features
The eCitan employs a heat pump for energy-efficient air conditioning, reducing the power requirement and maintaining a stable vehicle range through intelligent thermal management. This system ensures that the vehicle's battery is primarily used for driving rather than climate control, especially during charging.
Safety is paramount for Mercedes-Benz, and the eCitan is equipped with a comprehensive suite of driving assistance and safety systems. Standard features include Hill Start Assist, Crosswind Assist, and ATTENTION ASSIST. The Tourer model includes additional systems like Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Assist. Optional safety packages offer further enhancements such as Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and Active Steering Assist, as well as parking aids like Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC and a reversing camera.
Embracing the Future of Urban Transport
With the launch of the eCitan, Mercedes-Benz Vans is setting a new standard for sustainable, efficient, and versatile urban transport. The eCitan combines the practicality and functionality of a traditional small van with the environmental benefits of electric mobility, making it an ideal choice for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on performance. Whether for goods delivery or passenger transport, the eCitan offers a compelling solution for the modern, eco-conscious urban operator.
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