Large luxury vans like the Mercedes Vision V could change the car market, several media outlets believe. Here's why electric vans are getting a lot of attention right now.
A new generation of electric cars is on the way – and it's not SUVs that are stealing the spotlight.
According to several experts, electric vans are now set to become the big winners in the car market of the future. And car manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz are already ready with luxurious suggestions for what the future could look like.
With the presentation of the Vision V concept car, Mercedes showed how electric vans are no longer just practical work tools.
They can now be transformed into rolling luxury lounges, offices or homes on wheels – perfect for both private buyers and VIP transport.
Electric vans make better use of space than SUVs
The Vision V is based on Mercedes' new VAN.EA platform , which was developed specifically for electric cars. Because batteries and motors can be placed more flexibly, the wheels can be pushed out all the way into the corners. The result is more interior space without the car becoming larger on the outside.
Compared to traditional SUVs, an electric van makes much better use of space. For example, a Honda Odyssey holds almost as much luggage as a Chevrolet Suburban, even though it is 53 centimeters shorter.
The combination of low floor height, large openings and high efficiency makes vans a strong contender in a time when space, efficiency and flexibility are becoming increasingly important.
Mercedes hopes to deliver a range of up to 500 kilometers in their new luxury vans, while competitors such as Chrysler and Ford are already working on similar concepts.
Electric vans are perfect for the demands of the future
Vans are a perfect fit for the strengths of electric cars. Their shape makes them more aerodynamic than many SUVs, which means a longer range on a single charge. And because the cabin can be used much better, electric vans can offer both office space, lounge environments and family-friendly spaces.
Especially in densely populated areas such as China and Europe, there is already great demand for electric luxury vans, where they are used as company cars and VIP transport.
Several experts estimate that the US and the rest of the world will follow suit – just as we have seen previously with SUVs.
At the same time, the large electric vans could become a haven for people on the go. Future models could be equipped with wireless internet, large screens and the ability to turn the car into a mobile office or even a place for a yoga session while the kids are at sports. Or something else.
Denmark and Norway can benefit from the development
In countries like Denmark and Norway, where the share of electric cars is already very high, electric vans could gain extra momentum. Norway already had an electric car share of almost 89 percent of all new cars in 2024.
Here, the Tesla Model Y is the best-selling car, but electric vans may gain a whole new target group in the coming years.
In Denmark, the need for flexible cars is also growing, especially among families with children and companies that want a greener profile.
If electric vans can match the comfort of SUVs while offering more space, they could become attractive alternatives – especially in big cities, where space is tight and sustainability is more important.
At the same time, vans like the Vision V will be able to deliver on both comfort, range and functionality, which could entice buyers who would otherwise have chosen an SUV or station wagon.
Electric vans fit a new zeitgeist
The development is not just about technology and range. Experts point out that the van sends a completely different signal than the classic SUV. Where the SUV is often associated with individualism and status, the van is about community, sharing and flexibility.
“Vans are a more human and inclusive type of car,” says Felix Kilbertus of the design house Pininfarina, which is also working on new electric van concepts. “It’s about traveling together – not just about protecting yourself.”
Several manufacturers such as Volkswagen, Chrysler and Ford already have plans for electric vans for both private and commercial use. Mercedes-Benz will also launch luxury versions in the US – and perhaps later in Europe.
The future of the car market could therefore be much more square, spacious and social than we have been used to for the past 20 years. Perhaps the next big trend will not be another SUV – but a spacious, quiet and super practical electric van.
