Mercedes-Benz Vans announces pricing of new electric van the eCitan

The new electric Mercedes-Benz eCitan is now available to order and is priced from £33,995, excluding VAT and the plug-in van grant.

Production and delivery of the L1 panel van variant are anticipated to take place next month, with orders for L2 versions following later this year and crew van models early next year. 

Designed with two trim levels, Progressive and Premium, the eCitan’s electric motor has a maximum output of 90kW (122 hp) and a maximum torque of 245Nm.

A water-cooled 45kWh battery ensures efficient operation on hot days and is safely housed beneath the floor, so does not impinge on the available space, says Mercedes.

The lithium-ion battery is claimed to be capable of up to 176 miles on a single charge.

All variants feature two driving modes: Comfort and ECO, as well as three recuperation levels (D-/D/D+).

D- closely resembles one pedal driving and allows maximum energy to be recaptured by the vehicle’s synchronous motor. Mode D offers similar recuperation to a traditional engine, and D+ allows sailing for maximum coasting.

Equipment and technology designed to help drivers optimise the real-world range of the vehicle include a heat pump, heated windscreen and heated seats.

The pre-conditioning function available via the three-year complimentary subscription to the Mercedes me app, allows customers to cool or heat their van while it is charging.

This conserves battery life and maximises range, while ensuring the cab temperature is comfortable from the ‘off’, says Mercedes. 

The Progressive line is priced from £33,995, with key features including: Active Brake Assist with pedestrian and cyclist recognition; reversing camera; rear parking sensors; anti-theft alarm with deadlocking; emergency Call System; MBUX navigation with extended services for electric vehicles; and high-gloss black dashboard trim with chrome elements.

The Premium line is priced from £35,970, excluding VAT and OZEV Plug-in Van Grant contribution and also includes: 16-inch light-alloy wheels; colour-coded bumpers; LED High Performance headlamps; LED fog lights; and metallic paint. 

A variety of other Mercedes me connectivity features can also assist drivers when charging or driving, thanks to the inclusion of a Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) digital display screen.

With in-built navigation, it can help plan the optimum route for an electric vehicle. If the battery needs to be topped up enroute, MBUX will suggest the ideal charging station depending on the vehicle’s state-of-charge and distance to destination. It can also surface all available charging opportunities in the vicinity, including charger speed and whether it is currently in use.

Like all electric vans from Mercedes-Benz, the eCitan comes with a three-year, unlimited mileage warranty and battery capacity cover for eight years or 100,000 miles.

There is also MobiloVan support with free, round-the-clock emergency roadside assistance, including out-of-charge cover, as well as four complimentary services: two A (minor) and two B (major).

The small van is also equipped with 22 kW AC charging as standard. This will allow businesses to benefit from faster AC charging times, particularly as they continue to roll out their own higher capacity AC charging, where DC charging solutions may not be practical.

The lithium-ion battery can be recharged (10-80%) in just 38 minutes with the installed 75 kW DC charger. To further help businesses transition to electric vehicles, retail and SME customers will receive £1,000 towards charging installation at their home or place of work.

Safety equipment

The eCitan is equipped with many safety and driving assistance systems as standard, including: six airbags: Active Brake Assist; Crosswind Assist; and Attention Assist.

In combination with the optional tow bar, which has up to 1,450kg braked capacity, the eCitan also features Trailer Stabilisation Assist. If the vehicle combination begins to sway, the system uses braking interventions to stabilise it.

Details of the new diesel Citan were released earlier this year.