The Mercedez-Benz Vito E-CELL is now eligible for the Government’s new Plug-In Grant, making it the world’s first electric van.
The Vito E-CELL has a maximum range of 130km (80 miles) on a single six-hour charge from a 380/400 volt input as a result of using 16 Lithium-ion battery modules that have a combined capacity of 36 kWh.
It is also worth noting that the electric motor has an output of 82bhp, with 207lb-ft of torque. In order to qualify for the Grant, a van needs to produce fewer than 75g/km CO2. They also need to be capable of at least 60 miles between charges, and achieve more than 50mph. The 'European Vehicle Type Approval' must also approve all vans to ensure safety.
Van Sales and Marketing Director for Mercedes-Benz UK, Steve Bridge, said: "With an enviable range, advanced safety systems and payload equal to a regular van, the zero-local emissions electric Vito E-CELL easily meets the criteria for the new Plug-In Van Grant, and we welcome its introduction.
"Schemes like this help businesses to do their bit - and to join us in working hard to lower vehicle emissions. It is our ultimate goal at Mercedes-Benz to achieve emission-free driving and our first-ever series produced electric van is testament to our commitment to deliver this."
As with other Vito models, the Vito E-CELL also includes standard features such as an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and dual airbags.
If a collision occurs, the batteries are protected by a shock element as the vehicle has an internal combustion engine. The operational safety features also ensure that the high-technology voltage network is deactivated when the airbag control unit activates.
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