The Mercedes-Benz Vito (W447), particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2020, represents the third generation of this popular commercial vehicle. While not widely sold in the United States due to the American preference for larger vans, the Vito holds a significant position in the European market as a versatile panel van, passenger carrier (known as the V-Class in some markets), and a platform for camper van conversions. The W447 generation, launched in 2014 and updated in 2020, aimed to improve upon its predecessors with enhanced comfort, safety features, and a broader range of powertrain options, including a fully electric variant – the eVito. This article focuses on the eVito 41 kWh (116 Hp) Panel Van Long, a key component of Mercedes-Benz’s expanding electric vehicle lineup.
Mercedes-Benz Vito eVito 41 kWh: An Electric Commercial Vehicle
The eVito 41 kWh is a battery electric vehicle (BEV) version of the W447 Vito, designed for urban delivery and service applications. Introduced in March 2020 and produced until December 2021, it offered businesses a zero-emission alternative to traditional internal combustion engine vans. The “41 kWh” designation refers to the gross battery capacity, while the “Long” indicates an extended wheelbase for increased cargo volume. The eVito was positioned as a practical and environmentally conscious solution for businesses operating in increasingly regulated urban environments.
Engine & Performance
The eVito 41 kWh is powered by a single electric motor, designated EM6000, producing 116 horsepower (Hp) and 295 Nm (217.58 lb.-ft.) of torque. This front-wheel-drive configuration utilizes an asynchronous electric motor and a single-speed automatic transmission. While not designed for rapid acceleration, the eVito prioritizes efficiency and usability. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 19.4 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 18.4 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 120 km/h (74.56 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 18.8 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.4 kg/Nm, reflecting the vehicle’s focus on practical performance rather than outright speed.
Design & Features
The eVito Panel Van Long maintains the functional design of the W447 Vito, characterized by its boxy shape optimized for cargo capacity. It’s a four or five-door van with seating for three occupants. The key differentiating feature is the integration of the battery pack beneath the floor, preserving valuable cargo space. The Long wheelbase version provides a substantial 6000 liters (211.89 cubic feet) of minimum trunk space. The van’s design prioritizes practicality and durability, with a focus on ease of loading and unloading. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and an electric power steering system. The eVito’s interior is functional and designed for driver comfort during long working days.
Technical Specifications
| General Information | |
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Vito |
| Generation | Vito (W447, facelift 2020) Panel Van Long |
| Type (Engine) | eVito 41 kWh (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 2020 |
| End of production | December, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 19.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 19.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 18.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 120 km/h (74.56 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm |
| Electric Car Specs | |
| Gross battery capacity | 41 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 35 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 365 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 148-150 km (91.96 – 93.21 mi) |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 150-184 km (93.21 – 114.33 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 27.2-29.5 kWh/100 km (43.77 – 47.48 kWh/100 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) | 20.5-24.9 kWh/100 km (32.99 – 40.07 kWh/100 mi) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 5140 mm (202.36 in.) |
| Width | 1928 mm (75.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2249 mm (88.54 in.) |
| Height | 1941 mm (76.42 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200 mm (125.98 in.) |
| Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 2184-2295 kg (4814.9 – 5059.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 616-905 kg (1358.05 – 1995.18 lbs.) |
| Drivetrain & Suspension | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 1, automatic transmission |
The eVito 41 kWh, while a relatively short-lived model, represented a significant step for Mercedes-Benz in offering electric commercial vehicles. Its limited range, compared to later iterations of the eVito and other electric vans, positioned it primarily for urban applications. The vehicle’s success contributed to the growing acceptance of electric vans for commercial use, paving the way for more advanced and capable electric delivery solutions.
