With Volkswagen ID. Buzz getting so much attention this year, the Mercedes EQV has temporarily fallen into obscurity. However, that will all change later in 2023 when the three-pointed star will surprise his electric van. Meanwhile, the car paparazzi had spotted the prototype resting in a parking lot somewhere in Finland between two test sessions. We could tell immediately that this was an electric version of the license plate ending with “E.”
Although the EQV was introduced roughly three years ago, it is based on the third-generation V-Class that has been around since 2014. As a result, it’s starting to look dated compared to the latest models from the German luxury brand. For this reason, the facelift will come with completely redesigned headlights that seem to follow the latest Mercedes design trends. The front bumper is completely covered in camouflage and probably continues to hide the charging port.
Mercedes also partially covered the taillights, although, judging by the area left exposed, we don’t notice any changes compared to the current EQV. The top of the rear bumper and the bottom of the rear door are also disguised for some reason. Our spies weren’t able to peek inside, but it appears the steering wheel and dashboard remain covered in a sheet, hinting at some changes.
It remains to be seen whether modifications will be made in depth to increase efficiency and increase the range above 418 kilometers (260 mi). The EQV 300 is able to go that distance thanks to its larger battery which has a usable capacity of 90 kWh. The cheaper EQV 250 with the smaller 60 kWh package clocks in at 231 km (144 miles) in the same WLTP cycle.
Going further, Mercedes-Benz Vans will introduce a completely new electric van architecture dubbed VAN.EA. It will underpin a series of medium and large vans planned for a phased release from the middle of the decade.
