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Strict rules

Electric vehicles are causing a stir not only in the consumer market, but also in the business sector. With constantly increasing regulations regarding emissions and access to city centers as well as new BPM rules, electric commercial vehicles such as the eVito are becoming increasingly attractive. In 2019, we drove the eVito for the first time. At the time, it was the first full-size electric van in the midsize segment. A pioneer, in other words.

Over four years, the bus has received several updates and now it is in its best shape. The eVito comes with an 85 kW (116 hp) electric motor coupled to a 60 kWh battery pack. This translates to a driving range of 320 kilometers, which is often more than enough for most daily activities. For those who need more power and autonomy, there is also the eVito Tourer – suitable for passenger transport of up to eight people – which offers a more powerful engine and a larger battery pack, increasing the driving range to 380 kilometers.

How fast can the eVito charge?

With charging options ranging from 80 kW (small battery) to 110 kW (large battery, eVito Tourer), the eVito can get back on the road quickly after a charging session. With a quick charger, the battery is at 80% after about half an hour. The eVito’s battery pack is located under the load floor, maintaining practicality. With a payload of 950 kilograms and a maximum cargo volume of 6.6 m³, the eVito offers plenty of room for packages, tools or other business materials. In this respect, however, the diesel version still remains superior, as it is allowed to carry a few hundred kilos more.

Diesel, you say?

Indeed, diesel operation is still possible with the German bus. And still interesting, if you are a quick decision maker. Those who quickly purchase a diesel bus in 2024 will have access to downtown with their new acquisition for several more years. The diesel-powered Vito is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, with outputs ranging from 75 to 174 kW (102 to 237 hp).

Mild hybrid

A gasoline variant will also be available this year, which could be an ideal solution for buyers who would rather not or cannot drive electric. The gasoline Vito is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with mild hybrid technology, good for 170 kW (231) hp and 370 Nm of torque. However, it takes a bit more effort to obtain this version, as it is only available as a Mixto. Let that be the very version that is not coming to the Netherlands. Fortunately, Mercedes-Benz Vans Netherlands offers the option of converting a Mixto into a closed van version, so you can still drive a new fuel-engined Vito in the coming years, even in the inner city.

Substantially updated

The exterior of the Vito and eVito has received a subtle update, with a new grille, bumpers and LED lights that are not only functional, but also add a touch of elegance to the design. Even a Vito with unpainted bumpers – you can also have them co-painted – now looks decent. Thanks to smoked glass at the rear, the Vito looks stately even from behind.

Higher level

Inside, the Vito has undergone a significant transformation. Upon entering, you are greeted by the sophisticated MBUX infotainment system, familiar from Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. It takes the interior of the Vito to a considerably higher level. The 10-inch screen is nice to look at thanks to razor-sharp graphics and pleasant to operate thanks to impressive computing power. Navigating through the menus is smooth, and the built-in navigation system with 3D satellite images looks great. If you prefer Google Maps, you can easily pair your phone via Android Auto or Apple Carplay. A digital instrument panel is not available, but the simple instrument cluster provides all the essential information in a classic, intuitive way.

More driver assistance systems

The redesigned Vito and eVito – like modern passenger cars – are now equipped as standard with advanced driving assistance systems such as cruise control, active braking assistance and a 360-degree camera. Thanks to these systems, you know exactly what is happening around the bus. Pretty nice when you have to be in the middle of the busy downtown area. Thanks to a digital rearview camera, you have rear visibility even in the closed version. Optional extras such as a blind spot monitor and lane assist are recommended, as they provide added safety for drivers who often work long hours.

Conclusion

All in all, the updated Mercedes-Benz Vito and eVito offer an impressive combination of performance, practicality and advanced technology. Its excellent driving range and fast-charging capability make it ideal for both large and small Dutch entrepreneurs who want to quickly make their fleets more sustainable. The redesigned interior – with the MBUX system and a distinguished Mercedes steering wheel – almost makes the driver feel like he is in a luxury E-Class. We have not experienced that before in an enclosed commercial vehicle. For the revamped Vito, the brand charges a minimum of 34,660 euros, while the eVito comes from 54,710 euros. Wondering how the updated eVito drives? In the video below, we tell you more about the eVito and its big brother, the eSprinter: