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 like the Sprinter and domestic offerings, the Vito holds a significant position in the European market as a versatile medium-sized van. Offered in numerous configurations – cargo, passenger (Microbus), and crew van – the W447 caters to a broad range of commercial and personal transport needs. This article focuses on the all-electric eVito variant, specifically the Panel Van Long model with the 66 kWh battery pack, produced from January 2022 to July 2023.
Mercedes-Benz Vito eVito: An Electric Commercial Solution
The eVito, launched as part of Mercedes-Benz Vans’ electric mobility strategy, aims to provide a zero-emission solution for urban delivery and service applications. The Panel Van Long configuration, as detailed here, prioritizes cargo volume and practicality. The introduction of the electric powertrain into the Vito lineup reflects the growing demand for sustainable commercial vehicles, particularly in cities with increasingly stringent emissions regulations. The W447 facelift brought updated styling, improved technology, and enhanced safety features to the range, including the eVito.
Engine & Performance
The eVito 66 kWh is powered by a single electric motor mounted transversely at the front axle. This motor delivers 116 horsepower (Hp) and 360 Newton-meters (265.52 lb.-ft.) of torque. Power is delivered through a single-speed automatic transmission to the front wheels, making it a front-wheel-drive vehicle. While not designed for outright speed, the eVito offers sufficient power for typical urban and suburban driving conditions. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 23.5 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 22.3 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 120 km/h (74.56 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 20 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.4 kg/Nm. The vehicle’s performance is geared towards efficiency and practicality rather than sporty acceleration.
Design & Features
The eVito Panel Van Long is a four or five-door van designed for commercial use. Its primary focus is maximizing cargo space, offering a minimum of 6000 liters (211.89 cubic feet) of load volume. The long wheelbase (3200 mm / 125.98 in.) contributes to this generous capacity. The vehicle’s exterior design aligns with the W447 facelift, featuring a more modern and aerodynamic front fascia. The battery pack is located under the floor, preserving the van’s usable space. Standard features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electric power steering, and a McPherson strut front suspension with a trailing arm rear suspension. The eVito prioritizes functionality and durability, with a focus on providing a reliable and efficient workhorse for businesses. The maximum roof load is 150 kg (330.69 lbs), and the maximum permissible weight is 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs), allowing for a substantial payload of 824-882 kg (1816.61 – 1944.48 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| General Information | |
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Vito |
| Generation | Vito (W447, facelift 2020) Panel Van Long |
| Type (Engine) | eVito 66 kWh (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2022 |
| End of production | July, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 23.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 23.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 22.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 120 km/h (74.56 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 20 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Electric Car Specs | |
| Gross battery capacity | 66 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 60 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 400 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 260-266 km (161.56 – 165.28 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 25.3-25.8 kWh/100 km (40.72 – 41.52 kWh/100 mi) |
| MPGe | 83 – 81 |
| km/kWh | 4 – 3.9 |
| mi/kWh | 2.5 – 2.4 |
| Powertrain | |
| Electric motor | 1 |
| Electric motor power | 116 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Asynchronous |
| System power | 116 Hp |
| System torque | 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Dimensions & Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 2318-2376 kg (5110.32 – 5238.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 824-882 kg (1816.61 – 1944.48 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 6000 l (211.89 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 150 kg (330.69 lbs.) |
| Length | 5140 mm (202.36 in.) |
| Width | 1928 mm (75.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2244 mm (88.35 in.) |
| Height | 1941 mm (76.42 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200 mm (125.98 in.) |
| Drivetrain & Suspension | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring, Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 7J x 17 |
The Mercedes-Benz Vito eVito 66 kWh represents a practical and increasingly relevant solution for businesses seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and operate efficiently in urban environments. While not available in the US market, it exemplifies the growing trend towards electric commercial vehicles globally.
