Another first for the Vito E-CELL

5th February 2012

The Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL is making its mark as the first alternatively-fuelled van to be exhibited at the SMMT.

With the batteries and drive system integrated under the loading floor, the rear space capacity remains the same as conventionally-powered Vito models, with a maximum payload of around 900kg.

The high-performance lithium-ion batteries have a combined capacity of 36kWh, which is sufficient for a range of around 81 miles (130 kilometres).  The electric motor powering the Vito E-CELL has an output of 60kW, with 280Nm of torque. Targeted primarily for operation in inner cities and environmentally sensitive areas, it meets typical customer requirements for vehicles making frequent short journeys.

Thanks to intelligent technology, the charging times can be specified in accordance with how the vehicle is used.  This means each Vito E-CELL can be charged at precisely those times when energy providers supply ‘green’ power or off-peak electricity.  The batteries are also charged while driving through regenerative braking, which converts the vehicle’s braking energy into electricity.

In November last year, the Vito E-CELL won the accolade of “Most energy efficient light commercial vehicle (in production)” at the 2011 RAC Future Car Challenge, and now you can see photos of the vehicle on display at the SMMT’s Flickr site.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/smmt-ltd/6647724255/

The Mercedes-Benz exhibit comes after the new Low Emission Zone (LEZ) rules for large vans and minibuses were introduced in London.  As of 3 January, drivers of large vans, minibuses and other specialist diesel vehicles are required to pay a daily charge to drive within the LEZ unless their vehicle meets ‘Euro 3’ emission standards as part of new regulations being rolled out across the capital.

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