The vehicle is the outcome of research and development activities at Daimler which are focused on three aspects; optimising combustion engines, boosting efficiency via custom hybrid components and emission-free vehicle operation deploying batteries and fuel cells.
During 2010, more than 100 Mercedes-Benz Vito vans will be delivered to 20 customers, primarily fleet operators and public institutions wishing to transport items in environmentally sensitive zones with zero emissions, including no CO2 emissions, and low noise. Deployment scenarios therefore typically involve short distances and making many stops in urban areas. Production of a further 2000 vehicles is planned in the next phase.
The drive configuration is designed to run on battery power and thus dispenses with the powertrain intended for combustion engines.
A battery featuring lithium-ion technology supplies energy to the Vito. The company said that with an operating voltage of 400V, 16A current and an available capacity of 32kWh, the Vito’s range averages 130km but can be considerably higher given an appropriate driving style. The electric motor delivers a peak output of 90kW. The van has a load capacity of 900kg.
Assembly of the electric-powered Vito is being integrated directly into standard production. Mercedes-Benz said that its plant at Vitoria in Spain is preparing for the challenges associated with manufacturing an additional variant. Logistics, staff training and production technology are receiving financial support from the regional government.
In Germany too the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety is providing subsidies to support the efforts of Mercedes-Benz Vans in the areas of research and development, testing and customer deployment.
