The updated Mercedes EQV adds more luxury to the electric van segment

Mercedes-Benz, a household name for luxury and technological innovation in the auto industry, is charging up the tracks in the EV field. The unveiling of the refreshed EQV, an electric version of the iconic V-Class van promises to reshape the perception of a luxury EV.

The EQV is part of Mercedes' audacious roadmap to electrify over half of its entire van lineup by the end of the 2020s.

The EQV's exterior and interior have been redesigned and we now see a huge grille and assertive bumper give it a commanding presence, with the trademark Mercedes star gracing the hood for the first time in a V-Class. At the rear, a redesigned bumper and LED lights announce the Mercedes identity.

Step inside the EQV, and you'll find yourself in a futuristic cockpit. Dual 12.3-inch widescreen displays, a digital instrument panel, revamped air vents, and the latest MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system. EQV takes design clues from the likes of EQE and even EQS, carrying the luxury sedan feel to the van segment.

The EQV also integrates intelligent navigation, active range management, and a suite of cloud-based services and apps promise a streamlined driving experience.

Safety, as always with Mercedes, isn't an afterthought. From active brake assist with cross-traffic function to blind spot assist and active lane-keeping assist, the EQV is equipped with top-notch safety systems. And considering the price tag, we'd expect nothing less.

While some may dismiss the EQV as just a "van," Mercedes-Benz sees it as a beacon for the future of electric mobility. The company claims it is a testament to the perfect blend of luxury and environmental sustainability. With the innovative VAN.EA vehicle architecture set for a 2026 rollout, the EQV wants to be more than just a glimpse into the future but a statement of Mercedes-Benz's leading role in the industry.

Well, we say that all that's left for Mercedes is to work on the battery and powertrain efficiency. Because let's face it, the 90 kWh unit in the current model could use an upgrade, delivering a somewhat lackluster WLTP rating of 226 miles, which plummets to 165 miles for highway cruising. That's something to think about for a luxury van built to go the distance, especially when you factor in the price that rapidly approaches $110,000.

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